Stories from Beijing · China

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss upcoming high-level exchanges ahead of an expected summit. He stated the Taiwan issue concerns China's core interests and urged the United States to keep its promises. The discussion occurred as both nations prepare for leadership-level meetings. Tensions persist regarding US tariffs and sanctions on Chinese tech firms. China also criticized a US FCC proposal to bar Chinese laboratories from testing electronic devices for use in the United States. Chinese Vice Premier Halifong held a phone call with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and trade representative James Sunry. The parties discussed implementing high-level exchanges and addressing economic and trade cooperation. The discussion aimed to expand cooperation in these sectors.

Africa's trade deficit with China increased by 65% last year, reaching approximately $102 billion. US Treasury Secretary Scott Besant warned about the impact of new Chinese regulations that could penalize foreign firms for shifting operations. Beijing stated that recent discussions regarding a possible board of trade to manage non-sensitive goods were constructive. Both sides raised concerns regarding each other's trade policies during the talks. The Chinese Ministry accused the FCC of repeatedly introducing restrictive measures against Chinese companies and products. China advanced a proposal to bar China Mobile, China Telecom, and Unicorn following FCC actions. The Ministry stated such actions undermine the stability of bilateral economic and trade relations. The Ministry claimed the move would seriously damage the international economic and trade order.

An individual received a 100,000 yuan state reward for donating a 13-jin artifact to the government. The Beijing Evening News reported that the donated artifact is a 13-jin piece from the Qing dynasty.

Revenue for a major beverage segment fell 11% to 3.287 billion yuan in 2024, marking the second consecutive year of decline. The brewed beverage segment saw a 17.20% drop to 1.881 billion yuan, while ready-to-drink products grew 3.27% to 1.005 billion yuan.

A group launched a donation drive to support Feng Xiaoli, a worker facing medical difficulties. The initiative was launched by Yang Yulan to support the worker's recovery. The funds were collected from various members of the group to provide hope for the worker's survival. Yang Yulan initiated the appeal to the group's employees to support Feng's medical needs. The initiative aims to provide hope for Feng's survival. The initiative collected nearly 310,000 yuan in donations over three days. The effort was described as a way to unite the community in supporting the worker.

Beijing has announced it is the first major economy to offer zero tariffs on specific items. China has dropped tariffs on every African nation except Eswatini, which maintains relations with Taiwan. The policy follows an existing tariff-free arrangement for 33 African states. The move comes as China adjusts tariffs on various goods, including the auto sector which is a industry for Europe.

The clean energy sector accounted for approximately one third of China's economic growth in 2025. Estimates suggest that roughly 90 percent of all investments in the country were directed toward this sector during that period.

Xiaomi Group reported 2025 annual revenue of 457.29 billion yuan, a 25% year-on-year increase.

Xue Dong, the current director of the Taihu Ancient Architecture Design Institute, is continuing a three-generation family legacy in construction and architecture. Zhu Xianhua, grandson of Zhu Meilin, manages the family's banking business in Hong Kong. He visited the China Overseas Chinese History Museum in Beijing during a business trip. Zhu Meilin, who passed away in 1991, was instrumental in establishing Chinese holidays and cultural integration in Australia. His contributions are being carried on by his descendants.

A biotechnology research team specializing in biosynthetic and green manufacturing was awarded the 2026 China Youth May Fourth Medal.