China News Live: Global inflows to Chinese stocks could become a ‘flood’, says Cambridge Associates

Global investors are re-evaluating their predominantly US-focused portfolios and exploring undervalued equities in Hong Kong and mainland China to “provide defence” amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, potentially signaling a future “flood” of inflows, South China Morning Post said in a report. Aaron Costello, current Head of Asia for Cambridge Associates, stated in an interview this week that Asian equities, particularly in China, have surprisingly outperformed, even considering the aggressive tariffs previously implemented by the Trump administration (a past event) targeting the region.

A pre-existing graduate jobs crisis in China is reportedly being exacerbated by the continuing trade war, creating significant hurdles for young job seekers, as per a report in South China Morning Post. This challenging environment is exemplified by the experience of Jethro Chen, a final-year marketing student pursuing a master’s degree from a leading Hong Kong university. Despite his qualifications and a series of internships, Chen's dozens of applications to Chinese internet and consumer goods companies last year resulted only in rejections. His subsequent inability to land a marketing internship in Hong Kong has forced him to delay his graduation, underscoring the severe employment difficulties.

China's military is considering the strategic implications of humanoid robots in warfare, with its official newspaper, the People's Liberation Army Daily, publishing a commentary on Thursday, May 29, 2025, titled “What are the combat advantages of humanoid robots?”, as per a report in South China Morning Post. The article suggested that humanoid robots could significantly alter perceptions of future conflict by combining tactical flexibility with strategic deterrence, fitting into the concept of 'intelligent warfare'. This focus aligns with China's long-term military modernization objectives, previously outlined by President Xi Jinping (current President of China), and is viewed by analysts as a clear indication of the People's Liberation Army's intent to integrate advanced AI and robotics, prompting discussions on the balance of power and ethical considerations.

Donald Trump is initiating a new push to significantly reduce U.S. economic interdependence with China, a strategy that could involve launching another trade war, imposing stringent export controls, and revoking student visas, The New York Times said in a report. This renewed effort by Trump and associated officials signals a potential second attempt to sever economic ties, building upon actions taken during his previous administration and occurring within a broader, ongoing context of Washington seeking a more assertive posture towards Beijing, even as specific approaches to 'decoupling' or 'de-risking' are debated.

The 21st China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) opened on May 22nd and recently concluded its five-day run at the Shenzhen World Convention and Exhibition Center, as per a report in IQINGDAO. Under the theme "Innovation Leads Trends, Creativity Lights Up Life," the event attracted global attention, drawing 6,280 government delegations, cultural institutions, and enterprises both online and offline, which represents an increase of 265 participating entities.

A US federal appeals court has issued a temporary stay, allowing tariffs enacted during former President Donald Trump's administration—specifically “Liberation Day” reciprocal tariffs and fentanyl-related levies impacting China, Mexico, and Canada—to continue, as per a report in South China Morning Post. This ruling from the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington on Thursday granted what the article describes as "the Trump administration’s request" for an immediate stay, thereby pausing a judgment and permanent injunction from the Court of International Trade that had aimed to block these tariffs. Consequently, these trade measures, which include levies on Chinese goods, will remain in effect pending the full appeal.

The FORTUNE ASEAN-GCC-China and FORTUNE ASEAN-GCC Economic Forums 2025, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, concluded on May 29, 2025, with a significant call for action to advance sovereign AI, deepen regional economic connections, and implement inclusive growth strategies to navigate global uncertainties, as per a report in AP. The forums emphasized the need for shared AI governance and increased infrastructure investment across the ASEAN, GCC, and China regions, aiming to build resilient economies.

A recent court ruling has cast doubt on tariffs imposed on Chinese goods during the administration of former President Donald Trump, a development that could impact ongoing US-China trade dynamics, according to a report in Financial Times. This decision potentially challenges the legal standing or implementation of these past tariffs, which were a significant feature of trade policy between 2018 and 2019. Separately, and also recently, the US government has indicated it will "aggressively" pursue the revocation of visas for Chinese students, marking another point of friction in the bilateral relationship.

Economic tensions between the US and China are escalating, spreading into advanced technology sectors like semiconductor design and jet-engine manufacturing, as Washington has reportedly directed American electronic design automation (EDA) firms, including Cadence, Synopsys, and Siemens EDA, to halt relevant exports to China, South China Morning Post said in a report. This development, occurring within the last seven days, leads analysts to question if past diplomatic efforts, such as a referenced "Geneva deal" (a past event), can effectively manage the growing tech rivalry, which is also influenced by China's ambition for technological self-sufficiency and prior US export controls on entities like Huawei and SMIC.

A significant alliance comprising four leading Qatari enterprises has entered into a strategic agreement with Chery Automobile Co., Ltd., described as one of China's largest and most innovative automakers, to bolster Chery's international footprint via a new platform spearheaded by Qatari leadership, AP said in a report. This collaboration, announced on May 29, 2025, in Doha, Qatar, aims to leverage this new Qatari-led initiative to expand Chery's presence in the global automotive market.

Approximately 3.2 million total cross-border trips (arrivals and departures combined) are expected in Hong Kong over the Tuen Ng Festival long weekend, with a projected peak of around 540,000 arrivals at land crossings on Sunday, South China Morning Post said in a report. The Immigration Department stated that land checkpoints connecting to neighboring Macau and Shenzhen are anticipated to handle 85% of this traffic, amounting to 2.73 million movements, as Hong Kong hosts citywide dragon boat races. This surge in predominantly regional travel within the Greater Bay Area is significantly facilitated by the full reopening of borders with mainland China in early 2023 (a past event).

An unusual bipartisan pairing of U.S. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) is scrutinizing chipmaker Nvidia's intentions to establish a research-and-development facility in Shanghai, as per a report in The Hill. The Senators argue this move could bolster China’s defense and technological capabilities, stating that Nvidia’s "recent decision raises significant national security and economic security issues that warrant serious review." Their concerns are voiced against a backdrop of existing U.S. export controls on advanced semiconductors to China and broader efforts to enhance domestic American technological capabilities amid ongoing strategic competition.

Synopsys suspended its annual and quarterly forecasts just a day after issuing them, a decision prompted by new U.S. export restrictions that cast uncertainty on its sales of chip design software in the significant Chinese market, Reuters said in a report. This development, which saw the company's shares decline by approximately 3%, followed Synopsys receiving a letter from the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the U.S. Department of Commerce regarding these new controls on Electronic Design Automation (EDA) software. These restrictions are part of a broader U.S. strategy to limit China's technological advancement in the semiconductor industry.

Shanghai bolstered its commitment to the robotics industry by hosting the Embodied Intelligence Developer Conference and a humanoid robotics skills competition in its Zhangjiang hi-tech zone on Thursday, May 29, 2025, as per a report in South China Morning Post. The event featured forums, corporate exhibits, and a contest where university students utilized robots provided by organizers, reflecting a broader push by multiple Chinese cities to support this burgeoning sector, which is central to the nation's hi-tech development goals.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kazakhstan, outlined his country's ongoing strategy to balance its relationships with major global powers including Russia, China, and the West, while simultaneously addressing internal challenges such as implementing reforms, tackling inequality, and reducing economic reliance on oil exports, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The discussion emphasized Kazakhstan's commitment to its multi-vector foreign policy amid a complex international environment, aiming to safeguard sovereignty and foster diverse economic partnerships.

Covid-19 activity in Hong Kong is showing signs of decline from a recent peak, though levels are expected to remain high for the next month or two, according to a report in South China Morning Post. The Centre for Health Protection, a department within the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government responsible for public health, on Thursday urged high-risk groups to receive booster vaccinations to reduce the chances of serious complications or death. According to the centre, the latest data as of May 24 shows that both the viral load of Covid-19 from sewage surveillance and the test positivity rate of respiratory samples have decreased.

Hong Kong is preparing to inaugurate the world's pioneering international legal organization focused on mediation, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi scheduled to arrive in the city on May 29, 2025, to attend the signing ceremony for the body's launch on May 30, 2025, as per a report in South China Morning Post. Experts suggest that the establishment of this International Organisation for Mediation is poised to enhance Hong Kong's standing as a center for dispute resolution, equipping the city to manage disagreements between states as well as those involving investors. This development occurs against the backdrop of the 2020 imposition of the National Security Law, a past event that raised international concerns about Hong Kong's autonomy, and is seen by some as aligning with China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and broader efforts to influence global governance.

Chinese social media users have expressed disbelief after Peng Yujiang, a paraglider, was punished by local authorities despite miraculously surviving being sucked into a cloud vortex on May 24 in the Qilian Mountain region, as per a report in the South China Morning Post. Peng ascended to an altitude of 8,598 meters, nearly the height of Mount Everest, before his survival. The incident and subsequent punishment occur amidst a broader trend in China of stricter safety regulations and enforcement, with this action highlighting the authorities' focus on order, even in extraordinary circumstances.

A Hong Kong charity, GX Foundation, which is described as being led by a former Hong Kong leader, will promote traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in Djibouti this year and plans to expand to at least two more African nations, South China Morning Post said in a report. GX Foundation CEO Emily Chan Ying-yang stated on Thursday that the charity is collaborating with Djibouti’s Ministry of Health to introduce Hong Kong-registered TCM treatments to bolster local primary health services.

Hong Kong police will deploy officers from its counterterrorism and VIP protection units to bolster security for Wang Yi, Director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission, and international representatives attending a ceremony for the establishment of an intergovernmental mediation body, South China Morning Post said in a report. Wang Yi arrived in Hong Kong on Thursday, May 29, 2025, a day before the scheduled signing ceremony for the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation at the Grand Hyatt hotel in Wan Chai. This security deployment occurs in a context of heightened vigilance in the city, particularly for high-profile events involving mainland officials, following past events such as the 2019 protests and the 2020 implementation of the National Security Law.

Veteran property specialist Donald Choi Wun-hing, who previously served as CEO of Chinachem Group, is set to become the managing director of Hong Kong's financially strained Urban Renewal Authority (URA) from June 15 for a three-year term, South China Morning Post said in a report. This appointment, announced by the government on Thursday, May 29, 2025, sees Choi taking over from Wai Chi-sing, who is retiring after a nine-year tenure as the URA's chief. Choi's leadership comes at a critical time as the URA, a statutory body tasked with urban redevelopment, grapples with significant financial pressures and mounting challenges related to Hong Kong's housing crisis and land supply issues.

GX Foundation, a Hong Kong charity led by Tung Chee-hwa (who previously served as the first Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR from 1997-2005 and is currently a Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference), plans to introduce traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatments in Djibouti this year, according to a report in South China Morning Post. The foundation's current CEO, Emily Chan Ying-yang, announced on Thursday that the charity is collaborating with Djibouti’s Ministry of Health to integrate Hong Kong-registered TCM into the country's primary healthcare services, with intentions to expand these operations to at least two more countries.

China is allegedly moving Uyghur workers to factories located outside the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) in an effort to bypass the U.S. Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA), which presumes goods from Xinjiang are made with forced labor and bans their import, according to a report in New York Times. This relocation strategy, which the article indicates is a recent development in response to the UFLPA's implementation in June 2022, complicates efforts by global brands to ensure their supply chains are free of forced labor and increases their risk of non-compliance with U.S. law, despite China's assertions that these are voluntary poverty alleviation programs. The UFLPA itself also covers goods made outside Xinjiang if produced by entities involved in forced labor transfers from the region.

Chinese automaker JETOUR hosted its inaugural "Boxy SUV Carnival" in Zhongwei, China, on May 26, 2025, to celebrate its "Travel+" strategy and promote off-road culture, as per a report in PRNewswire. The event featured the debut of the 2025 JETOUR T1 i-DM and underscored the company's highlighted leadership in the boxy SUV segment, referencing its T2 and T1 models. This initiative occurs as global sales of off-road SUVs reportedly exceeded 1.87 million by 2024, a market segment where JETOUR aims to redefine experiences.

Peng Yujiang, a 55-year-old paraglider in China, endured a life-threatening accidental ascent to an altitude of 8000 meters when a rare weather phenomenon known as a 'cloud suck' unexpectedly pulled him upwards into a cloud formation while he was testing new equipment, BBC said in a report. Video footage captured the perilous incident. While this event is primarily a dramatic human survival story, it occurs within a national context where the Chinese government places significant emphasis on safety standards and risk management across various sectors, including leisure and extreme sports.

Shanghai hosted an embodied intelligence industry conference and a humanoid robotics skills competition on Thursday, May 29, 2025, as multiple Chinese cities increase efforts to support the burgeoning sector, now a key focus of the nation’s hi-tech ambitions, South China Morning Post said in a report. The Embodied Intelligence Developer Conference, held in Zhangjiang, Shanghai’s hi-tech zone, included forums, corporate exhibits, and a skills contest featuring humanoid robots for university students. This initiative is a direct implementation of China's broader national strategy for AI leadership and technological self-sufficiency, aligns with President Xi Jinping's emphasis on developing 'new productive forces,' and is further accelerated by US export controls on advanced technology, pushing for domestic innovation in areas like AI hardware and robotics. Embodied intelligence, a subfield of AI, focuses on systems like robots that can interact with the physical world.

Nvidia is contemplating a plan for a new artificial intelligence (AI) chip specifically for the Chinese market, though such a product is not currently ready, as per a report in South China Morning Post. This consideration arises as US export controls, initially imposed in October 2022 and updated in October 2023, continue to affect the tech giant's outlook in China. During the company’s post-earnings call on a recent Wednesday, Nvidia founder and CEO Jensen Huang stated, “The key is to understand the limits and see if we can come up with interesting products that could continue to serve the Chinese market,” while confirming, “We don’t have anything...” developed at this time. The company has explicitly ruled out making its high-performance Hopper series chips available in China due to these ongoing US restrictions.

A Hong Kong District Court on Thursday, May 29, 2025, cleared private tutor Wong Chak-pang, 32, of two counts of indecent assault against his neighbour’s daughter, now 13, South China Morning Post said in a report. The acquittal came after the court found the complainant did not reveal the whole truth and provided "extremely evasive and vague" evidence concerning the alleged incidents, which reportedly occurred on unspecified past dates at her Kwai Chung flat. This case unfolds within a broader context of ongoing scrutiny regarding Hong Kong's judicial independence and societal discussions about child protection and the legal system's handling of cases involving child witnesses.

The Hong Kong Observatory cancelled an amber rainstorm warning on Thursday afternoon, May 29, 2025, over two hours after it was first issued at 4:25 p.m., as per a report in South China Morning Post. The warning was initially put in place because a trough of low pressure was affecting the coast of Guangdong.

The Hong Kong government announced on Thursday, May 29, 2025, that two of the city’s premium taxi fleets, Joie and SynCab, will be permitted to collect pre-booked passengers at designated locations within normally prohibited zones at the Shenzhen Bay Port and the local control point of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge from Friday, May 30, 2025, South China Morning Post said in a report. This trial initiative will allow passengers to book journeys through the fleets' mobile apps or other compatible online ride-hailing channels.

Chinese private rocket firm Space Epoch announced on Thursday it had successfully conducted a flight recovery test, a key milestone in China's ambition to develop its own reusable rocket technology capable of competing with systems such as SpaceX's Falcon 9, as per a report in Reuters. This advancement supports China's broader goals for space exploration, including potential tourism and infrastructure development, and underscores the nation's strategic push for technological self-reliance and the increasing role of its private space sector in achieving these objectives amid growing international competition, particularly with the USA.

Hong Kong stocks experienced a downturn on Wednesday, with the Hang Seng Index falling 0.5 per cent to 23,258.31 and the Hang Seng Tech Index slipping 0.2 per cent, as per a report in South China Morning Post. This decline was primarily triggered by a disappointing financial report from Chinese e-commerce platform PDD Holdings, which indicated that extensive discounting strategies to attract consumers are likely to negatively affect near-term earnings. The news subsequently rattled investor confidence in other e-commerce giants, including Alibaba Group Holding, which saw its shares retreat. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index also lost 0.1 per cent, while the Shanghai Composite Index remained largely unchanged, reflecting broader concerns about the e-commerce sector's outlook.

Hong Kong is anticipating a significant wave of initial public offerings (IPOs) from what Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) CEO Bonnie Chan Yiting described as three 'formidable' clusters of companies, positioning the city as an attractive entry for global capital seeking diversification, South China Morning Post said in a report. Speaking on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the Greater China Private Equity Summit, Chan, in her current role as HKEX CEO, highlighted that IPOs in Hong Kong have already secured around US$10 billion in 2025, with a robust pipeline of over 150 companies, including many large-scale 'jumbo deals' valued at over US$1 billion.

Hongkongers reported feeling tremors as a magnitude 4.3 earthquake struck Heyuan, Guangdong, about 170km north-northeast of the city, on Thursday afternoon, according to a report in South China Morning Post. The Hong Kong Observatory stated it received over 10 reports from residents experiencing earth tremors that lasted for several seconds. Initial analysis indicated the earthquake occurred at 1.17 pm. This event briefly highlights the ongoing relevance of disaster preparedness discussions and the Hong Kong Observatory's role in monitoring and communicating such regional seismic activities.

State-initiated labor programs in China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, officially intended to alleviate poverty, are also instrumental in reshaping Uyghur identity and diminishing resistance to Chinese governance in the strategically vital area, as per a report in New York Times. While Beijing asserts these programs offer voluntary vocational training crucial for economic upliftment and countering extremism, critics and international observers contend they involve coercive practices. These policies are seen as contributing to the erosion of Uyghur cultural heritage and autonomy, implemented in a region key to China's geopolitical and economic ambitions.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has expressed a "burning urgency" to fast-track the Northern Metropolis project and is exploring further legal amendments to expedite its development, according to a report in South China Morning Post. Lee informed lawmakers on a recent Thursday that he hoped to seek views on accelerating progress for the government's blueprint, which aims to transform 30,000 hectares in the New Territories into a new economic growth engine and powerhouse close to the city’s border with mainland China.

Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. presented its Mother's Needlework public welfare program at London Craft Week 2025, displaying embroidery and handcrafted carpets within the "Tiangong Kaiwu: Crafting Works Of China" exhibition of the China Pavilion, as per a report in AP. The program aims to integrate traditional crafts into sustainable fashion, thereby empowering ethnic minority women to generate income.

Hong Kong is preparing for an estimated 3.2 million cross-border trips during the upcoming Tuen Ng Festival long weekend, with land checkpoints from neighbouring Macau and Shenzhen expected to handle 85% of this traffic, amounting to 2.73 million journeys, South China Morning Post said in a report. The Immigration Department announced these figures on Thursday, May 28, 2025, projecting Sunday to see a peak of about 540,000 arrivals at these land crossings. The city will also host dragon boat races over the holiday weekend.

Chinese heavy equipment manufacturer SANY officially delivered custom-developed 200Nm³/h skid-mounted hydrogen producing and refueling equipment to an Australian customer on May 20, 2025, representing SANY's first such project delivery to Australia and a significant move in its international green energy expansion efforts, according to a report in AP. This delivery follows a strategic partnership SANY established with the Australian customer in April 2024, which was SANY's initial effort to promote this technology internationally after previously building China's largest integrated hydrogen production and refueling station. The project involves specific equipment for a particular customer and is noted as SANY's first delivery to Australia, not necessarily the first hydrogen refueling project in Australia overall.

China's Defence Minister Dong Jun is set to miss the Shangri-La Dialogue, a major Asian security forum in Singapore, scheduled for this weekend (May 31 - June 2, 2025); instead, a delegation from the People's Liberation Army National Defense University will represent China, its ministry announced on Thursday, May 29, 2025, as per a report in Reuters. This development occurs as U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is expected to attend the summit, and follows a period of limited re-engagement in military-to-military communications, including a video call between Dong Jun and Lloyd Austin in April 2024, which was a past event.

China has recently vowed to open its markets further to Pacific Island nations, a significant diplomatic and economic initiative, Financial Times said in a report. This development is understood as an effort by Beijing to leverage opportunities perceived to have emerged from past changes in United States foreign policy, particularly referencing reductions in foreign aid and the implementation of global tariffs during the 2017-2021 term of former President Donald Trump, which were seen by some as a US retreat from its traditional global engagement. China's pledge is viewed as part of its broader strategy to enhance its influence and strengthen economic partnerships in the strategically important Indo-Pacific region, especially with island states that are crucial for regional dynamics.

Amidst mounting US pressure, the Communist Party of China's foremost theoretical journal, Qiushi, has advocated for the nation to make preparations for a worst-case scenario concerning its trade discussions with Washington, said South China Morning Post in a report. This call, published on the journal's official WeChat account, came just hours before the US government escalated technology and education restrictions targeting China and also highlighted that the US had "turned away from the negotiating table and immediately intensified its pressure on China’s semiconductor industry."

China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, will attend the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong on May 30, 2025, as per a report in Reuters. This event aligns with China's broader strategy of promoting alternative international institutions and increasing its involvement in global mediation, while also aiming to showcase Hong Kong's continuing role as an international legal and financial hub under Beijing's oversight.

Filipino activists, under the banner of the Atin Ito coalition, conducted a 'sea concert' this week aboard the civilian vessel M/V Kapitan Felix Oca near the disputed Thitu Island in the South China Sea, having sailed from Palawan on Tuesday, as per a report in South China Morning Post. This protest, combining performance with political statement, is intended as a symbolic act of resistance against China's claims in the contested waters. While analysts cited in the article suggest the event is unlikely to advance formal legal claims, they believe it could be effective in fostering regional solidarity, drawing international attention to the ongoing disputes, and mobilizing public sentiment, particularly given the context of recent Chinese Coast Guard actions and a more assertive Philippine government stance on its maritime rights.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will retain Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., who is among the most vocal critics of China in Asia, as Marcos presses on with a revamp of his Cabinet, AP said in a report. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed on Thursday that Teodoro, who has strongly echoed Marcos’ criticisms of China’s aggression in the South China Sea, will remain in his post. Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III will be the next chief of the 232,000-member national police.

Filipino activists from the Atin Ito coalition conducted a "sea concert" aboard the civilian vessel M/V Kapitan Felix Oca near the disputed Thitu Island (Pag-asa) in the South China Sea this week, a symbolic act of protest against Chinese claims in the region, as per a report in the South China Morning Post. The event, which saw the vessel sail from Palawan on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, aims to galvanize regional support and draw international focus to ongoing maritime tensions, particularly amid recent confrontations involving Chinese vessels and Philippine resupply missions. While analysts suggest such actions may not alter legal standings, like the 2016 arbitral ruling which the Philippines under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. increasingly highlights, they serve to raise political costs for China and demonstrate public commitment to Philippine sovereignty. China is expected to view this as a provocative challenge to its claims over the islands.

An article published on Thursday in the People’s Liberation Army Daily, China's official military newspaper, explored how humanoid robots could significantly alter the future of warfare, as per a report in South China Morning Post. The commentary, titled “What are the combat advantages of humanoid robots?”, examined the battlefield advantages of this cutting-edge technology, stating that such robots could combine tactical flexibility with strategic deterrence in the emerging era of "intelligent warfare."

The family of Ho Shung-pun, identified as a low-key real estate development clan in Hong Kong, has listed a five-storey commercial property at 18 Bute Street in Mong Kok for sale to repay debt, according to a report in South China Morning Post. This recent move follows the family's sale of several luxury houses on The Peak in 2024, also aimed at debt repayment. Ho Shung-pun is the current director of Kowloon Investment, which, as per official records, acquired the Mong Kok building in 1971 for HK$420,000. The building offers a total gross floor area of approximately 13,000 sq ft, and Colliers is the sole agent for its sale.

The Hong Kong Observatory issued an amber rainstorm warning at 4:25 p.m. on Thursday, May 29, 2025, with a trough of low pressure impacting the coast of Guangdong, according to a report in South China Morning Post. This warning followed shortly after the forecaster had released a special weather alert indicating that widespread heavy rain might affect the region.

The Luban Workshop, an international vocational training platform named after a renowned ancient Chinese craftsman, is reportedly working to provide opportunities for youth in Uzbekistan by tailoring its approach to the country's specific context and cultivating urgently needed talents for local economic and social development, according to a report in AP. Kateryna Danylova, a host from CICG Europe-Asia, joins Abrikulov in exploring these aspects, seeking to understand how the workshop opens this "door of opportunity" and the methods it uses to address Uzbekistan's particular requirements in talent development.

Bupa Hong Kong announced on May 29, 2025, the launch of cross-border cashless premier healthcare services in mainland China, responding to growing demand from Hong Kong residents, said AP in a report. This initiative, in partnership with providers including Fosun Health, Prosper Health, and The GBA Healthcare Group, extends services across 10 cities and 69 locations within the Greater Bay Area (GBA). This development is a direct outcome of the Chinese central government's GBA Integration Initiative, aimed at fostering closer ties and economic growth by facilitating easier access to services like healthcare for Hong Kong residents living or working in mainland GBA cities. While offering convenience, the move is viewed within a sensitive political context, with some seeing it as beneficial integration and others raising concerns about Hong Kong's autonomy and increasing reliance on mainland systems, particularly following past political events such as the 2019 protests and the implementation of the National Security Law.

XTransfer, a prominent Chinese B2B cross-border trade payment platform, has announced its upcoming debut as a 4-star sponsor at the Money20/20 Europe 2025 fintech event, which is scheduled to be held in Amsterdam from June 3 to 5, 2025, according to a report in AP. This move by XTransfer into the European financial technology scene occurs within a complex geopolitical environment, characterized by the European Union's ongoing 'de-risking' strategy concerning its economic ties with China, increased scrutiny of Chinese foreign direct investments in critical European sectors, and widespread global concerns about data privacy and cybersecurity associated with Chinese technology companies. XTransfer's significant presence at such a major event is anticipated to attract attention from EU policymakers and regulators focusing on issues of data security, regulatory compliance, and fair competition.

Chinese students studying in the United States are reportedly scrambling to determine their futures following a recent announcement that the U.S. will begin revoking visas for some, including those in "critical fields" and individuals with "connections to the Chinese Communist Party"; this development, which the article attributes to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio (currently a U.S. Senator as of May 29, 2025), has led concerned students to label the measure the "Chinese Exclusion Act," referencing a discriminatory past U.S. law, AP said in a report. This visa action, affecting students from China—the second-largest source of international students for the U.S.—takes place within a broader context of escalating U.S.-China political and economic tensions and stated U.S. government concerns regarding national security, espionage, and intellectual property theft.

Aurora Mobile Ltd., a mobile data services provider based in Shenzhen, China, announced a loss of $351,000 in its first quarter, as per a report in AP. On a per-share basis, the company experienced a loss of 6 cents, while losses adjusted for stock option expense were 5 cents per share. The company posted revenue of $12.3 million for the period.

Humansa, a prominent Asian health and longevity center, in partnership with i-Cognitio Sciences, a spin-off company from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) founded by Prof. Vincent Mok (current Founder of i-Cognitio Sciences), has announced the launch of its BrainSpark Program in Hong Kong SAR on May 29, 2025, as per a report in AP. This initiative introduces what is described as the world's first artificial intelligence model capable of identifying the risk of Alzheimer's disease through fundus photography (retinal imaging). This development aligns with broader Chinese government strategies such as the National AI Strategy and the 'Healthy China 2030' initiative, which emphasize technological innovation in healthcare and preventative care, particularly relevant given the aging populations in both mainland China and Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu stated on Thursday his intention to seek views on accelerating the Northern Metropolis project, citing a 'burning urgency' to establish the economic hub, according to a report in South China Morning Post. The government's blueprint aims to transform 30,000 hectares in the New Territories into a new economic growth center, closely linked with mainland China's Greater Bay Area initiative. Lee indicated that potential legal amendments are being explored to speed up this development, which is viewed by the government as vital for Hong Kong's economic revitalization and job creation amidst recent economic challenges.

Chinese actress Gao Yuanyuan has made a notable comeback to the media spotlight with her new Hong Kong film, 'Sons of the Neon Night,' which recently premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, according to a report in South China Morning Post. Gao, an actress, had significantly reduced her public exposure after her marriage in 2014 to Taiwanese-Canadian actor Mark Chao and the birth of their daughter in 2019 (both past events), making her return to showbiz stunning for fans. 'Sons of the Neon Night,' a Hong Kong dystopian crime thriller, premieres in a context of increased integration between Hong Kong's film industry and mainland China, a trend particularly noted since the 2020 imposition of the National Security Law (a past event with ongoing effects), and amidst mainland China's broader regulation of its entertainment sector.

During the third foreign ministers’ meeting between China and Pacific Island states held in Xiamen on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, China pledged to expand its support for these nations in building climate resilience and to continue law enforcement cooperation, South China Morning Post said in a report. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced the commitment, which includes US$2 million for a climate change fund, at what was noted as the first in-person gathering of its kind since a previous hiatus. This meeting occurs amidst ongoing geopolitical engagement in the Pacific, where climate change is a paramount concern for island leaders, and follows a (historical) 2022 attempt by China to secure a broader regional security deal.

The Philippine Navy is set to inaugurate a series of new naval bases in locations such as Subic Bay and Mindanao as part of its ongoing modernization efforts, South China Morning Post said in a report. This development, which includes a facility near a former American military stronghold, signals Manila's intent to bolster its naval defense reach in response to escalating territorial disputes in the South China Sea and potentially expands locations available for US forces under an existing agreement. Observers note these plans also reflect the Philippines' aim to reduce reliance on external support for its maritime security.

Hongkongers experienced tremors on Thursday afternoon, May 29, 2025, when a magnitude 4.3 earthquake occurred in Heyuan, Guangdong, China, about 170km north-northeast of the city, South China Morning Post said in a report. The Hong Kong Observatory confirmed it received over 10 reports from residents who felt the shaking, which lasted for several seconds, and its initial analysis indicated the quake struck at 1:17 PM.

Chinese paraglider Peng Yujiang experienced an unintentional flight to over 8,000 metres above the Qilian mountain range after being caught in a strong updraft while attempting to test new equipment without conducting a proper flight, said The Guardian in a report. Following the incident, a video of which gained widespread online attention, the Gansu Provincial Aviation Sports Association, an official regulatory body, has prohibited Peng from paragliding for six months. The ban was reportedly due to violations of established rules concerning flight testing procedures, rather than solely the accidental high-altitude flight itself.

The Philippine Foreign Ministry stated on Thursday that China possesses no right to object to or impede the Philippines' lawful and routine activities within the South China Sea, as per a report in Reuters. The ministry explicitly rejected and refuted recent assertions by the spokesperson of the Chinese embassy in Manila regarding Beijing's 'indisputable sovereignty' over the Spratly Islands. This statement was issued following recent incidents where Chinese coast guard and maritime militia vessels have reportedly interfered with Philippine resupply missions to its outpost on Second Thomas Shoal, which Manila considers part of its exclusive economic zone, and references the 2016 international arbitral ruling that largely invalidated China's claims, a ruling Beijing does not recognize.

Xiamen Hithium Energy Storage Technology, recognized as the world’s third-largest manufacturer of energy storage system (ESS) batteries, is intensifying its overseas production efforts in direct response to heightened US-China tensions and increasing tariffs on Chinese exports, as per a report in South China Morning Post. Sun Minghuang, who currently serves as Hithium's director of strategic marketing, stated that the company plans to commence operations at its new factory in Texas during the second half of 2025. This facility is expected to create at least 200 local jobs, underscoring Hithium's commitment to global expansion and localization strategies.

Hesai Group, described as the world’s largest manufacturer of automotive lidar sensors, intends to establish its inaugural factory outside mainland China in Southeast Asia, with operations slated to begin next year, as per a report in South China Morning Post. Andrew Fan, Hesai Group's Chief Financial Officer (current as of May 2025), stated on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, that the Shanghai-headquartered company recently secured a land lease for this facility. Construction is planned to commence later in 2025, and the plant is expected to start producing light detection and ranging (lidar) sensors in late 2026.

The 2025 International Cooperation Forum on Industrial Digital Transformation was successfully held in Brasília, Brazil, on May 29, 2025, co-hosted by the World WLAN Application Alliance (WAA), the International Economic and Technical Cooperation Center (CIETC) of China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil), as per a report in AP. Attended by nearly 200 stakeholders, the event underscores strengthening China-Brazil ties and is viewed as an extension of China's "Digital Silk Road" initiative, aiming to boost its global digital economy influence. This forum occurs amidst intense global competition for digital technology leadership and standards. For China, whose participation is directly driven by its Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, it enhances its technological image and market access in Latin America; for Brazil, with official government support via ApexBrasil, it signals a commitment to industrial modernization and attracting investment. The collaboration also contributes to shaping global norms for industrial digitalization, potentially favoring Chinese-promoted standards, while some Western observers note concerns about China's expanding technological influence.

Humansa, an Asian health and longevity center, in collaboration with i-Cognitio Sciences, a Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) spin-off founded by Prof. Vincent Mok (current founder of i-Cognitio Sciences), has unveiled the BrainSpark Program in Hong Kong SAR on May 29, 2025, as per a report in AP. This initiative introduces what is described as the world's first artificial intelligence model capable of detecting the risk of Alzheimer's disease through fundus photography, a form of retinal imaging.

Hong Kong-based Agilis Robotics, in collaboration with The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), has achieved a significant surgical innovation by successfully performing the world's first robotic-assisted en bloc resection of bladder tumours (ERBT) in patients, as per a report in AP. This milestone, part of a clinical trial initiated in December 2022 involving eight patients, utilized Agilis Robotics' Intilume™ System, demonstrating its potential to enhance precision and safety in minimally invasive procedures. This development underscores Hong Kong's capabilities in advanced medical technology and aligns with broader efforts towards technological self-reliance in the healthcare sector within China.

A notable surge in international interest is being observed for the upcoming CPHI & PMEC China event, set to take place from June 24-26th at the Shanghai New International Expo Center, according to a report in AP. This increased participation reflects renewed momentum in pharmaceutical manufacturing and global sourcing, reportedly fueled by easing tariffs and a rebound in pharmaceutical investment. The 2025 edition of the event is anticipated to be the largest pharmaceutical event ever held in Asia.

Peng Yujiang, a Chinese paraglider, has been banned from flying for six months after footage of his accidental ascent to over 8,000 meters due to a powerful updraft in the Qilian mountain range went viral online, The Guardian said in a report. He reportedly began his practice flight from an altitude of about 3,000 meters before being unexpectedly carried more than 5,000 meters higher. The incident and the subsequent regulatory action occur amid a broader context of increased state oversight over public activities and a focus on safety management by Chinese authorities, particularly concerning events that gain significant online traction.

A prospective win for Lee Jae-myung, identified as the left-of-center frontrunner and presidential candidate for South Korea's Democratic Party, in the nation's presidential election would likely signal a shift in Seoul's foreign policy, potentially leading to improved ties with China, according to a report in Bloomberg. Such an outcome could also prompt South Korea to exercise more caution regarding its stance in the ongoing US-China strategic competition, initiate new efforts to bring North Korea into dialogue, and possibly create new tensions with Japan.

China launched its ambitious Tianwen-2 mission aboard a Long March 3B rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre at 1:31 am Beijing time on Thursday, May 29, 2025, with the goal of bringing asteroid samples back to Earth, as per a report in South China Morning Post. The China National Space Administration (CNSA) confirmed the spacecraft was successfully placed into its intended trajectory approximately 18 minutes after lift-off. This mission is part of China's broader efforts to explore the solar system and make significant advances in planetary science, resource utilisation, and national defence, reflecting the country's rapidly expanding space program capabilities and its pursuit of technological self-sufficiency within a competitive global landscape.

Police in Hong Kong took the cousin of wanted Canada-based activist Joseph Tay and her husband for questioning on Thursday to assist an investigation into Tay's alleged violations of the national security law, the South China Morning Post said in a report. A source indicated the couple were escorted to Tsing Yi police station and were released around 11 am the same day. Tay, 62, is a former actor and is wanted by Hong Kong authorities.

Persisting US tariffs on imports are poised to add millions to the cost of Boeing jets for Chinese buyers, which, combined with global delivery delays and supply chain constraints, will likely lead to a marked deceleration in China’s aviation capacity expansion, South China Morning Post said in a report. Analysts, including those at China International Capital, project that China's civil aviation passenger capacity growth will average only 3.1% annually until 2028 due to these ongoing pressures, which stem from the broader US-China trade dispute and its impact on aircraft procurement.

The International Friendship Cities Business Matchmaking fair took place in Jinan, China, on the afternoon of May 27, 2025, as per a report in AP. This event was a key component of the '2025 Shandong International Friendship Cities Cooperation and Exchange Week' and was hosted by the Shandong Provincial People's Government. It was jointly organized by the Foreign Affairs Office of Shandong Provincial People's Government and the China Council For The Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Wednesday that the United States plans to 'aggressively revoke visas' from Chinese students, focusing on those with connections to the Chinese Communist Party or involved in studies deemed critical, The Hill said in a report. This initiative will see the U.S. State Department collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to implement the visa revocations. Furthermore, the State Department will undertake a revision of existing visa criteria for Chinese students as part of this new policy direction.

Cangzhou is emerging as a key player in regional cooperation efforts within the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei corridor, leveraging infrastructure such as the Port of Huanghua on Bohai Bay and the historic Grand Canal, which now reflects passing high-speed trains, to drive its development, according to a news report from Xinhuanet. The city's growth strategy aims to balance industrial expansion with maintaining livability, positioning it as a modern connector in northern China. This development is a component of the overarching Jing-Jin-Ji Coordinated Development Strategy, which seeks to integrate the economies of Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei province and promote balanced regional growth.

A search operation was ongoing on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, for six individuals missing after a chemical plant explosion in an industrial park in Weifang, Shandong province, eastern China, claimed at least five lives and injured 19, AP said in a report. The cause of the blast, which shook nearby buildings, shattered windows, and released a significant plume of white smoke, was not immediately clear. This event unfolds against a historical pattern of industrial accidents in China, despite stated commitments to safety from the central government, under Chinese President Xi Jinping. The incident places immediate pressure on local officials in Weifang and Shandong to manage the crisis and investigate, while also testing the central government's broader commitment to public safety and regulatory oversight of hazardous industries.

The United States has halted the flow of certain critical airplane and semiconductor technologies, exclusively manufactured in the U.S., to China, an action initiated by President Donald Trump's administration to assert governmental influence over global supply chains, as per a report in The New York Times. This move marks a significant escalation in the broader context of ongoing trade disputes and technology competition between the two nations, targeting sectors crucial for China's technological advancement, such as aviation and advanced computing. The restrictions are presented as a measure to control the flow of critical technologies, reflecting an increased focus on supply chain security.

Chinese artificial intelligence startup DeepSeek released an update to its R1 reasoning model, designated R1-0528, in the early hours of Thursday, stepping up competition with U.S. rivals such as OpenAI, as per a report in Reuters. The model was launched on the developer platform Hugging Face, though DeepSeek has not yet made an official public announcement or published a description or comparative performance details for this new version.

Hong Kong's creative talents are increasingly venturing into the burgeoning 'goods economy,' aiming to secure a share of the profitable market for art toys and collectibles, as per a report in SCMP. This trend is exemplified by significant investments in such items, like a Hong Kong fintech millionaire, Kenneth's, recent HK$2 million purchase of a limited edition luxury watch featuring the 'Companion' character by American artist and designer Brian Donnelly, also known as Kaws. Donnelly first found success with Companion toys in 1999 (a past event), and the character's enduring popularity underscores the potential rewards for creators who hope to develop the 'next Labubu,' a popular art toy, in this competitive market.

President Trump has stopped some critical products and technologies made only in the United States from flowing to China, flexing the government’s power over global supply chains.