China Quote✒️
“By Knocking on new doors, China can foster stronger economic cooperation with Latin America, Brics members and other countries in the Global South. In doing so, China can continue to grow and adapt to future challenges.”
–Christopher Tang, University distinguished professor and Edward Carter professor of business administration at the UCLA Anderson School of Management.
Blindspot👁️
Economic Activity🏦
China Advisers Call for Steady 5% 2025 Economic Growth Goal, Stronger Stimulus
Kevin Yao writes in Reuters that Chinese government advisers are proposing a 5% economic growth target for 2025, supported by stronger fiscal stimulus to offset the impact of potential U.S. tariffs. While some economists suggest lower growth targets to curb reliance on stimulus, proponents argue that ambitious goals are vital for China’s global influence and social stability. Additional consumer-focused policies and infrastructure investments are also under consideration.
China Railway Launches Rail Transport Trial for Electric Vehicle Batteries
China Daily reports that China Railway conducted its first large-scale trial for transporting lithium batteries by rail, departing from Southwest China’s Chongqing, Sichuan, and Guizhou provinces. Using specialised containers with safety features, the initiative aims to enhance export efficiency for Chinese lithium batteries, reducing costs and logistics time compared to sea and road transport.
AI to Generate $680 Billion for Telecom Industry Over Next 20 Years
China.org.cn reports that John Hoffman, CEO of GSMA, highlighted at the 2024 World Internet Conference in Wuzhen that AI could contribute up to $680 billion to the telecommunications sector within 15-20 years. Citing a McKinsey report, Hoffman praised Chinese operators like China Mobile for pioneering AI solutions, transforming services in public sectors and healthcare. He emphasised ethical and sustainable AI development alongside innovation.
Popular Zhuhai Air Show Draws Big Crowds, Over US$38 Billion in Orders
Hayley Wong and Amber Wang write in the South China Morning Post that the 2024 Zhuhai Air Show attracted 600,000 visitors and secured US$38.7 billion in orders. Featuring advanced Chinese and Russian aircraft, including the debut of China’s J-35A stealth fighter, the event showcased expanding defence capabilities and doubled overseas exhibitors compared to 2022. Tightened security followed a deadly attack near the venue.
Inside China🐉
Xi Sends Congratulations to 2024 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit
Xinhua reports that Chinese President Xi Jinping extended congratulations to the 2024 World Internet Conference in Wuzhen, calling for innovative, safe, and inclusive growth in cyberspace. Xi emphasised global cooperation to embrace digital and smart development trends and to build a shared digital future benefiting people worldwide.
Former Senior Official at China’s Securities Regulator Under Investigation
Reuters reports that Wu Guofang, a former senior official at China’s Securities Regulatory Commission, is under investigation for alleged severe violations of law and discipline, according to China’s anti-graft watchdog. Wu has been dismissed from his role as vice president of Guosen Securities. Separately, Yao Qian, another ex-official, has been expelled from the Communist Party for accepting bribes and property. These developments reflect intensified anti-corruption efforts in China’s financial sector.
China Protests Spiked 27% in Months Before Xi’s Stimulus Push
Rebecca Choong Wilkins writes in Bloomberg that public protests in China rose by 27% in Q3 2024 compared to the previous year, according to Freedom House’s China Dissent Monitor. Most protests were driven by economic grievances, with workers and property owners leading disputes. The surge coincided with Beijing’s efforts to counter the economic downturn through stimulus measures.
Eight Dead After Stabbing at School in Eastern China
The BBC reports that a 21-year-old man killed eight and injured 17 outside Wuxi Yixing Arts and Crafts Vocational College in eastern China. The suspect, who failed to graduate and was dissatisfied with his internship pay, confessed to the attack. The incident highlights growing concerns over “revenge on society” violence following another deadly car rampage in Zhuhai earlier that week.
From Abusive Patients to Harassment: The Mistreatment of China’s Medical Students
Zhang Tong writes in the South China Morning Post that over 84% of Chinese medical students reported mistreatment during training, including harassment from patients and superiors. The study, published in JAMA, highlighted tasks unrelated to training, public humiliation, and unjust treatment as common issues. Researchers warn these experiences could perpetuate a cycle of mistreatment in the medical profession, calling for reforms to foster supportive learning environments.
China and the World🌏
China’s Xi Goes on Diplomatic Hot Streak in South America
Bloomberg reports that Chinese President Xi Jinping’s South American diplomacy has boosted Beijing’s influence. Xi and Peru’s Dina Boluarte inaugurated the $1.3 billion Chancay port, aiming to transform trade with Asia despite geographical hurdles. Xi used the APEC summit to assert China’s support for international trade and contrast it with US policies under Trump. He reinforced ties with Brazil’s Lula da Silva and Argentina’s Javier Milei, despite Milei’s anti-communist stance, highlighting Beijing’s growing rapport with developing nations amidst global challenges.
Ishiba and Xi Hold First In-Person Talks Amid Japan-China Tensions
Francis Tang writes in The Japan Times that Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their first in-person talks during the APEC summit in Lima, aiming to stabilise strained relations. Discussions covered military tensions, trade issues, and the safety of Japanese nationals in China. Both leaders emphasised mutual cooperation despite domestic challenges and shifting Indo-Pacific geopolitics, including the impact of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s return.
China, Brazil Decide to Elevate Ties in Xi, Lula Meeting
Xinhua reports that Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a “shared future” partnership for global fairness and sustainability. During Xi’s state visit, both leaders pledged deeper cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, focusing on trade, technology, and environmental protection. They emphasised multilateral collaboration on global issues and strengthening the Global South’s voice in international governance.
Xi Visits Morocco, Meets With Crown Prince
Bernard Orr and Ahmed Eljechtimi write in Reuters that Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Morocco after attending the G20 Summit in Brazil. Welcomed by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan in Casablanca, the visit highlighted Morocco’s growing strategic importance to China, particularly in infrastructure and EV battery production. China’s Gotion High Tech plans a $1.3 billion gigafactory in Morocco to support its automotive industry and proximity to key markets.
Chinese FM Meets Canadian Counterpart in Lima
CGTN reports that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly discussed improving bilateral ties during a meeting in Lima. Wang highlighted the need for mutual respect, free trade compliance, and adherence to the one-China principle. Joly described her recent China visit as a positive step, reaffirming Canada’s one-China policy and commitment to cooperation through multilateral platforms like APEC.
Saudi Arabia, China, Iran Meet to Advance Beijing Agreement
Arab News reports that Saudi Arabia, China, and Iran convened in Riyadh for the second meeting of the Joint Tripartite Committee to follow up on the Beijing Agreement. The nations highlighted progress in Saudi-Iranian relations, including improved consular services and a media collaboration MoU, while exploring economic and political cooperation. The meeting condemned Israeli aggression and stressed humanitarian aid to Palestine and Lebanon, emphasising regional stability and Yemen’s political resolution under UN principles.
Chinese Defence Minister Declines Meeting with Pentagon Chief
Reuters reports that China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun declined a meeting with U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin during the ASEAN-Plus Defence Ministers meeting in Laos. Austin expressed disappointment, emphasising the importance of U.S.-China communication for regional stability. The refusal follows earlier talks in Singapore, where differences over Taiwan and other issues were discussed, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the two powers.
China’s Joint Security Proposal Sparks Controversy in Myanmar
Voice of America reports that China’s proposal to form a joint security company with Myanmar’s military junta has faced criticism as a potential breach of sovereignty. Observers link the move to Beijing’s concerns over instability affecting its Belt and Road Initiative projects. Experts highlight the junta’s overstretched forces and note that increased Chinese involvement could further complicate Myanmar’s volatile political landscape.
Japan Says It Will Monitor China’s Military Activity After Airspace Violation
Associated Press reports that Japan is closely observing China’s military actions after Beijing admitted an August airspace violation was unintentional, caused by turbulence. Japan protested the incursion, calling it a serious sovereignty breach, despite China’s assurance of preventive measures. Rising Chinese and Russian military activities near Japan’s southwestern regions have led Tokyo to bolster its defence strategy.
Danish Military Monitoring Chinese Ship After Undersea Cable Breaches
France 24 reports that Denmark’s navy is closely monitoring the Chinese cargo vessel Yi Peng 3, anchored in the Kattegat Strait, after two Baltic Sea undersea fibre-optic cables were severed. While investigations in Sweden and Finland suggest potential sabotage, no direct accusations have been made. The Chinese government insists its ships comply with international laws, emphasising the importance of protecting submarine infrastructure. European governments have linked such incidents to hybrid threats, stopping short of naming specific actors.
China, Pakistan to Hold First Counter-Terrorism Drills Since 2019
Anadolu Agency reports that China and Pakistan will conduct their first joint counter-terrorism military exercise, codenamed Warrior-VIII, after a five-year hiatus. The drills, running from late November to mid-December, aim to enhance cooperation against terrorism, focusing on real-combat scenarios. This decision follows recent attacks targeting Chinese nationals in Pakistan, prompting joint efforts to improve security and combat threats in the region.
China-Russia Gas Pipeline Is Completed, Will Supply Enough for 130 Million Chinese Households
Liao Shumin writes in Yicai Global that the China-Russia East Route Natural Gas Pipeline, spanning over 8,000 km from Siberia to Shanghai, is complete. The pipeline, expected to supply 38 billion cubic metres of natural gas annually, will meet the needs of 130 million urban households. It traverses northeastern China to eastern provinces, marking a major milestone in energy collaboration.
Governor Abbott Targets Chinese Espionage with Executive Order
KVUE reports that Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order directing state agencies to enhance security against potential espionage by China and the Chinese Communist Party. Measures include background checks, prohibiting foreign recruitment programs, and banning contracts with companies linked to adversary governments. While aimed at protecting state security, experts warn it could fuel anti-Asian sentiment, urging clarity to prevent discrimination. This follows concerns over foreign “police service stations” targeting critics of China’s government.
US Ahead in AI Innovation, Easily Surpassing China in Stanford’s New Ranking
Matt O’Brien writes in KTBS that the U.S. retains the top spot in Stanford University’s AI Index, far outpacing China in private investment and responsible AI research. The U.S. saw $67.2 billion in AI investment last year compared to China’s $7.8 billion. While China excels in patent filings and research publications, the U.S. leads in impactful applications and safety measures.
Chinese Tech Firms Build AI Teams in Silicon Valley Amid US Restrictions
Financial Times reports that leading Chinese tech companies, including Alibaba, ByteDance, and Meituan, are expanding their presence in Silicon Valley to hire top AI talent despite US efforts to limit China’s AI advancements. These firms aim to compete in generative AI development while navigating restrictions like the Nvidia AI chip ban. ByteDance leads with established AI projects, while Alibaba and Meituan aggressively recruit, targeting engineers from OpenAI and other US tech giants. Smaller Chinese AI start-ups are also leveraging US expertise to strengthen their models.
Indian International Students in the US Outnumber Chinese for the First Time in 15 Years
CNN reports that Indian students have overtaken Chinese as the largest group of international students in the US for the first time since 2009, accounting for 29% of international students compared to China’s 25%. The shift reflects policy changes, safety concerns, and growing educational options elsewhere, including in China. Despite the decline, the US remains a popular destination for AI and tech graduate studies.
China Surpasses Germany and Japan in Robot Density
Business Wire reports that China now ranks third globally in robot density, with 470 robots per 10,000 factory workers, according to the International Federation of Robotics. South Korea remains first with 1,012 units, followed by Singapore. China’s rapid rise, doubling its density since 2019, reflects massive investments in automation despite its 37 million manufacturing workforce. The global average robot density hit a record 162 units in 2023, more than doubling over seven years.
Aid Map Reveals Beijing’s Growing Pacific Investment
The Mandarin reports that China has overtaken the US as the second-largest bilateral donor to Pacific Island nations, as revealed by the Lowy Institute’s 2024 Pacific Aid Map. Beijing’s significant contributions include Fiji’s $135 million Vanua Levu Road upgrade, its largest grant-financed project in the region. However, strategic aid competition is disproportionately prioritising infrastructure, leaving gaps in human development initiatives like health and education. Australia remains the largest donor, though grant support has dipped to pre-pandemic levels.
Tech in China🖥️
Half of Top 20 Science Cities Now in China, Driven by Regional Growth
Nature reports that China’s cities now dominate the Nature Index’s top 20 science cities, with Beijing and Shanghai taking first and second positions, respectively. Emerging provincial hubs like Chengdu and Hefei are excelling in fields like solar energy and electric vehicles, aligning with national strategies like “Made in China 2025.” Experts predict that Chinese cities could lead in health sciences within a decade, reflecting the country’s growing global research influence.
China’s SpaceSail to Challenge Elon Musk’s Starlink in Brazil
Fortune reports that China’s SpaceSail plans to launch satellite internet services in Brazil by 2026, challenging Elon Musk’s Starlink. Partnering with Telecomunicacoes Brasileiras S.A., SpaceSail aims to provide broadband in underserved regions. The move aligns with President Xi Jinping’s visit to Brazil and a broader push to deepen Chinese investments in the country. SpaceSail’s expansion occurs as Starlink faces regulatory challenges, with its market position in Brazil under increasing pressure.
De/Cypher Data Dive📊
According to the Nature Index 2024 Science Cities supplement, China now has half of the top 20 science cities.
A science city is a city or metropolitan area that has been recognized for making significant contributions to high-quality scientific research. These cities are ranked based on their share of research publications in leading natural science journals, as measured by the Nature Index.
Share refers to a fractional count metric that measures an institution’s or city’s contribution to scientific articles published in selected high-quality journals.
Beijing has remained the world’s top science city since 2016. Meanwhile, Chinese cities, especially provincial capitals such as Nanjing, Wuhan, Hangzhou, Hefei and Xi’an, have greatly enhanced their position as globally competitive science centers. (Xinhua)
Image of the Week📸
