China News Live: Shareholders of mainland Chinese firms increasingly look to Hong Kong for family offices

Shareholders of mainland Chinese firms increasingly look to Hong Kong for family offices

An increasing number of shareholders from mainland Chinese companies are looking to establish family offices in Hong Kong, particularly after their firms conduct initial public offerings in the city, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. This trend is reportedly driven by a growing pipeline of new listings in Hong Kong. Wang Fengyu of the asset management firm Oakwise Capital noted a recent surge in inquiries for family office services from such clients.

Chinese officials offer Vegas-style weddings at music festivals to counter declining marriage rates

To combat a sharp decline in the country's marriage rate, local officials in China are introducing novel initiatives, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. In Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang region, officials recently set up a temporary marriage registry office at the Super Strawberry Music Festival, offering "Las Vegas-style" weddings. This move is the latest in a series of creative, local-level efforts designed to make marriage more appealing and accessible to young people.

China arrests several suspects in crackdown on strategic mineral smuggling

Chinese authorities announced on Saturday the arrest of several suspects involved in smuggling strategic minerals, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Commerce following a high-level export-control meeting in Nanning, Guangxi, a region rich in such resources. The government pledged stronger enforcement of export controls to curb illegal shipments and prevent technology transfers intended for military use.

Hong Kong pro-democracy party League of Social Democrats disbands

The League of Social Democrats (LSD), one of Hong Kong's final active pro-democracy parties, has officially disbanded, according to a report in Radio Free Asia. The group cited immense political pressure as the reason for its closure, a situation stemming from Beijing's increasing influence over the city. This pressure is linked to the 2020 National Security Law, which has been used to prosecute activists, and a 2021 overhaul of the electoral system that effectively bars opposition figures from holding office. The LSD's decision follows a wider trend that has seen numerous other pro-democracy organizations, media outlets, and unions cease operations in Hong Kong in recent years.

Hong Kong government convenes emergency meeting to prepare for Tropical Storm Wipha

Hong Kong is on alert as Tropical Storm Wipha approaches the city, with officials expecting heavy rain and strong winds over the weekend, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. A steering committee, headed by the city's Chief Secretary for Administration, Eric Chan Kwok-ki, convened a meeting on Friday to enhance and coordinate preparedness measures for the storm's impact.

Hong Kong's affordable eateries expand amid a wider trend of restaurant closures

Eateries in Hong Kong specializing in affordable "poor man's meals" are expanding into prime real estate, bucking a city-wide trend of restaurant closures, according to a report in the SCMP. These restaurants, which traditionally served lower-income neighborhoods, are now seeing chains grow across the city. One prominent example is Kuen Fat Kitchen, which recently leased a 372-square-meter space in the major tourist district of Tsim Sha Tsui for a monthly rent of HK$180,000 (US$22,900).

Hong Kong minister warns of legal liabilities for AI misuse ahead of new tool launch

Hong Kong's Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Sun Dong, has issued a warning that users of artificial intelligence must accept full legal responsibility if their use of the technology breaks the law, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. The statement on Saturday came in response to an incident where a University of Hong Kong law student allegedly used AI to generate pornographic images. Sun described AI as a "double-edged sword" ahead of the planned release of a locally developed generative AI tool, which is powered by mainland China's DeepSeek model and will be available for free public use this year.

Chinese officials investigated for falsifying results in kindergarten lead poisoning case

An investigation has been launched into ten officials in China’s northwestern Gansu province for oversight failures after a provincial disease control agency and a hospital were found to have falsified test results, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. The case involves a major lead poisoning scandal that left more than 200 kindergarteners with high lead levels in their blood. This probe follows the detention of eight other individuals nearly two weeks ago in Tianshui city for their involvement in the poisoning incident.

China's influence in Southeast Asia grows amid US and EU aid cuts, a new report finds

China's role as Southeast Asia's largest infrastructure financier is increasing its regional influence as the United States and European Union slash their foreign aid budgets, the South China Morning Post said in a report. According to the findings from an Australian think tank, aid reductions of approximately US$60 billion by the Trump administration and over US$25 billion by European countries are causing the region's development finance "centre of gravity" to shift toward China.

Chinese man builds 11-story tower on home in defiance of demolition orders

A Chinese man has defied official demolition orders by constructing an 11-story tower on top of his home, The New York Times said in a report. The structure, described as rickety, has now become an unconventional tourist attraction due to the owner's act of resistance against urban development plans. This case is a notable example of the 'nail household' phenomenon, where residents refuse to have their homes demolished.

Hong Kong needs tax breaks and talent to boost art hub status, says expert

To enhance its status as a major hub for storing and trading art, Hong Kong must introduce more significant tax benefits and other incentives, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. Patti Wong, co-founder of an art advisory and former top executive for Sotheby’s in the region, stated that while the city ranks among the top three global art auction centers, it lacks key components for future growth. Specifically, Wong highlighted a shortage of industry talent and service providers specializing in areas such as art storage, authentication, and repair, which are crucial for building upon its current success.

US government worker reportedly blocked from leaving China for months

A naturalized American citizen who works for the US government has been blocked from leaving China for several months under an exit ban, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. The individual, who is originally from China, was reportedly detained by authorities after landing in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, in April. While the exact reason for the exit ban has not been confirmed, it is believed to be on national security grounds.

Japan warns companies in Taiwan to prepare their own protection plans amid China threat

Japan's government is warning its companies in Taiwan that they must bear the responsibility for protecting their own staff in a potential conflict with China, contributing to a slump in foreign direct investment, according to a report in the Financial Times. The advisory clarifies that in the event of an attack by Beijing, the Japanese government's ability to conduct large-scale evacuations would be severely limited, forcing businesses to develop their own robust contingency plans. This development occurs amid escalating cross-strait tensions and a broader global trend of companies pursuing "de-risking" strategies to reduce reliance on the region.

Hong Kong to build more subsidized homes in new tech hub to meet middle-class demand

Hong Kong will increase the construction of subsidized homes within its new innovation and technology hub near the mainland China border to address the needs of middle-class families and support the city's strategy to attract top talent, South China Morning Post said in a report. Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho Wing-yin stated the initiative is focused on the new Northern Metropolis, where the San Tin Technopole is located. Ho also outlined plans to enhance the liveability of public flats in the area by integrating them with nature and established communities.

Chinese dissident Chen Yunfei faces police surveillance after prison release

Veteran Chinese dissident Chen Yunfei is being subjected to multiple rounds of questioning and repeated surveillance by police, Radio Free Asia says in a report. This follows his release from prison in March, where he had been serving a sentence for charges including 'inciting subversion of state power'. Chen is a prominent activist known for his advocacy related to the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown. The measures are described as a form of extra-legal control aimed at preventing his engagement in public discourse or activism.

Widespread pay cuts in China fuel deflationary fears amid falling consumer spending

Widespread salary reductions and layoffs are affecting civil servants and employees of state-owned enterprises across China, leading to a significant drop in consumer spending and increasing fears of deflation, according to a report in Radio Free Asia. These fiscal measures are reportedly a response to severe financial strain on local governments, which are grappling with high levels of debt. The economic challenges are compounded by the protracted crisis in the nation's real estate sector and the lingering economic slowdown that followed the government's stringent "Zero-COVID" policies.

Chinese ship surveys Vietnamese EEZ as state media remains silent

A Chinese survey vessel has been conducting operations within Vietnam's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea, according to a report in Radio Free Asia. The ship has reportedly surveyed an area of approximately 2,000 square kilometers since its activities began in mid-June, and the incident has not been reported on by Vietnam's state-controlled media.

China's nuclear arsenal is growing faster than any other country's, report finds

China's nuclear arsenal is growing at a faster rate than that of any other country, with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) now estimating its stockpile has reached at least 600 warheads, according to a report in Radio Free Asia. The report highlights the rapid pace of China's nuclear modernization. While the total number of warheads remains significantly smaller than those held by the United States and Russia, the rate of increase is the key finding noted in the research.

Five rescued after boat fire in Hong Kong typhoon shelter

Five people were rescued unharmed early Sunday morning after a fire broke out on a speedboat in Hong Kong's Causeway Bay typhoon shelter, as per a report in the South China Morning Post. The blaze, which was reported by a passer-by just after 3:40 a.m., spread to two nearby vessels as Typhoon Wipha impacted the city. Marine police and firefighters responded to the incident and rescued three men and two women from a nearby, unaffected vessel. None of the five individuals required hospital treatment.

Chinese girl's resemblance to actress Cecilia Cheung sparks online gender debate

A 15-year-old girl from China's Henan province has become a viral sensation after videos of her drew nearly six million views due to her striking resemblance to Hong Kong actress Cecilia Cheung Pak-chi, as per a report in South China Morning Post. The widespread attention has also ignited a social media controversy and a debate about gender roles, as online users began to suspect her family of having a traditional preference for male children, turning her newfound fame into a point of discussion on societal values.

China and Vietnam to conduct first joint army exercise

China and Vietnam are scheduled to conduct their first joint army training exercise this month in southern China, South China Morning Post said in a report. China's defence ministry announced on Sunday that the exercise will be held in the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, which borders Vietnam. The drill comes as military ties between the two countries have deepened, despite ongoing territorial disputes and shared efforts to navigate US influence in the region.

Woman in China in coma after sunbathing for health remedy

A 67-year-old woman in China's Zhejiang province has fallen into a coma after suffering a brain hemorrhage, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. The incident occurred after the woman, identified by her surname Wang, sunbathed her back for two hours in intense heat. She was reportedly attempting to follow a traditional Chinese medicine remedy she had heard about, which suggested the practice could cure illnesses by warming the body's 'yang energy' and dispelling dampness.

Scientists in China find first evidence of a plant-eating pterosaur

Scientists in China and Brazil have discovered the first evidence of a plant-eating pterosaur, an ancient flying reptile that lived alongside dinosaurs, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. The team reported finding the stomach contents of a pterodactyloid pterosaur fossil, a rare find that helps illuminate the mysterious diets of the creatures that ruled the skies before birds. The discovery, published in the peer-reviewed journal Science Bulletin, has renewed a debate among paleontologists regarding the dietary habits of these reptiles.

Hong Kong official says new subdivided flat standards will not increase rents

Hong Kong's Secretary for Housing, Winnie Ho Wing-yin, announced that a planned regulatory overhaul for subdivided flats will not lead to rent increases, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. She urged the public to avoid using negative labels for these units once they are certified under the new regime, emphasizing that they provide essential accommodation for a wide range of residents. Ho also confirmed that temporary housing will likely continue to be a component of the city's 'housing ladder' in the future, serving as a stepping stone for residents.

A Hong Kong surfing coach draws criticism for surfing during Typhoon Wipha

A surfing coach in Hong Kong has faced widespread criticism after claiming to ride waves during Typhoon Wipha on Sunday, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. The company the coach works for, Go Surf HK, also advertised lessons with the tagline "the bigger the wave, the better it gets." The decision was condemned by local surfers as "absolutely ridiculous," as water sports are banned during severe weather and the sport is prohibited at public beaches throughout the year.

China cashier steals $2.4 million from firm to fund cosmetic surgery and luxury lifestyle

A woman in China who earned a monthly salary of 8,000 yuan (US$1,100) embezzled nearly 17 million yuan (US$2.4 million) from her employer over a six-year period, the South China Morning Post said in a report. She used the illicit funds to pay for a range of cosmetic surgeries, which took place four times a year at a cost of 300,000 yuan (US$42,000) per session. The cashier also cultivated a wealthy image on social media, spending about two million yuan (US$278,000) annually on luxury goods, including items like diamond bracelets worth more than 100,000 yuan.

EU commissioner vows crackdown on Shein and Temu over dangerous goods

EU Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath has expressed shock at the toxicity and dangers of some products sold by Chinese retail platforms Shein and Temu and has vowed a crackdown, according to a report in The Guardian. Amid an influx of 12 million low-value parcels entering the EU daily from online retailers outside the bloc, McGrath stated he would take action against the sale of goods that blatantly break the law. The commissioner is currently awaiting the results of a secret shopper investigation as part of the broader EU effort to enforce regulations on these popular platforms.

Swire Properties to lease more retail space in Shanghai after moving 18 buildings with robots

Swire Properties and its mainland China partner, Shanghai Jing’an Urban Regeneration Construction Development, are preparing to lease the second phase of their retail venture in Shanghai after using robots to move 18 buildings on the Zhangyuan site, according to a report in South China Morning Post. This engineering feat was conducted to make way for the construction of a multi-level underground mall. The joint venture plans to release the new retail space in stages beginning next year.

Chinese tech companies expand their presence in Dubai

Major Chinese technology companies are establishing a greater presence in Dubai's tech sector as the emirate works to diversify its economy away from oil, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. Tech firms including ByteDance, Huawei Technologies, and Alibaba Group Holding are playing an increasingly significant role in the city's tech industry. Much of this activity is centered in Dubai Internet City, a technology park that also hosts major Western companies such as Microsoft, Google, and Amazon.com, as part of Dubai's strategy to build an economy not solely reliant on its historical oil wealth.

Chinese hospital opens clinic to treat work-related anxiety and depression

A hospital in Qinhuangdao, located in China's northern Hebei province, has launched a specialized outpatient service called the "Dislike Going to Work Clinic," according to a report in the South China Morning Post. The Qinhuangdao Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine established the service two months ago to address mental health issues such as work-related anxiety and depression. The initiative was reportedly inspired by a similar "Dislike Going to School Clinic" for children and has since generated significant discussion on social media platforms within the country.

Chinese EV brands Zeekr and Neta reportedly inflated sales figures

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers Zeekr and Neta have reportedly inflated their sales figures, according to a report in Reuters. The allegations of misrepresenting sales data come amid heightened international scrutiny of China's EV industry, including ongoing investigations by both the European Union and the United States into state subsidies. This development adds to existing concerns regarding the transparency and reliability of corporate and economic data from China.

Xi Jinping warns officials against reckless investment in AI and EVs

Chinese President Xi Jinping has issued a blunt warning to local officials against fostering over-investment and what he termed reckless development, specifically highlighting the artificial intelligence and electric vehicle industries, according to a report in the Financial Times. He criticized cadres who encourage such projects only to abandon them later, a practice he described as "patting their buttocks" and walking away from the consequences. The warning signals a high-level concern within the government about potential economic bubbles and inefficient allocation of resources in key strategic sectors.

Li Haotong in contention to become first man from China to win a major golf championship

Li Haotong is positioned to become the first male golfer from China to win a major championship, as he is currently in second place at the British Open at Royal Portrush, according to a report in AP. The world No. 111-ranked golfer will play in the final pairing on Sunday alongside world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, giving him a chance to make history for the nation of 1.4 billion people.

Man dies after fall from building during suspicious fire in Hong Kong

A man died after falling from a residential building in Hong Kong's Tsuen Wan district during a fire that authorities are treating as suspicious, according to a report in the South China Morning Post. Police received reports of the blaze at Shek To House in Shek Wai Kok Estate on Friday afternoon. The man who fell was transported to Yan Chai Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The Fire Services Department stated the fire was suspicious and occurred following a dispute.

Beijing stock exchange becomes key IPO hub for small tech firms

China's Beijing Stock Exchange (BSE) has emerged as a major hub for initial public offerings, attracting more applications from companies than the Shanghai and Shenzhen exchanges combined, according to a report in Financial Times. The surge is driven by the BSE's looser listing requirements, which are specifically designed to accommodate smaller, innovative technology companies. This development provides a vital new channel for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to access capital, aligning with China's broader strategy to foster its domestic 'hard tech' sectors and reduce technological reliance on foreign nations.