Stories from Beijing · China

An autonomous electric mining truck has set three global records for largest movement, fastest operating speed, and lowest operating temperature.

President Myrton Ancham is scheduled to visit Beijing for two days on May 14 and 15. The visit is part of a series of diplomatic moves aimed at adjusting bilateral approaches. The two sides are prioritizing pragmatic cooperation, specifically in the economic and energy sectors.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to prepare for high-level contact. The remarks were made during discussions regarding the development of strategic and stable relations. The statement asserted that any attempts by 'Taiwan independence' forces to disguise themselves will not change their inevitable fate. Demand for non-surgical medical and cosmetic procedures has surged in mainland China and Taiwan, particularly in dermatology. Growth rates for patients from Indonesia and Malaysia have also exceeded 100%. The increase is attributed to comprehensive visa and aviation expansion policies. Dermatology remains the highest sector for medical institution selection. Beijing asserts that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, regardless of actions by the Democratic Progressive Party authorities or external forces.

China's global market share for generative AI models increased by 15 percent between January and September 2025. During the same period, the US market share declined by 13 percent.

Authorities in Beijing are enforcing strict controls on the sale of drones to prevent unauthorized exports. Groups can face up to 15 days of detention for violations of these state-mandated regulations.

Travelers report price increases and contract cancellations at homestays during the May Day holiday. This practice is described as inducing secondary consumption through incomplete disclosure of total costs. Recurring issues with rising homestay prices and contract violations continue to affect travelers in China. Hundreds of students in Amsterdam have filed reports against homestay providers regarding contract breaches and inflated service costs. The Stichting Woon foundation is supporting the students. The landlord allegedly submitted fake invoices to justify costs during an appeal to the rent commission. The phenomenon has reportedly persisted for years despite attempts at regulation. Price increases and contract breaches in the homestay sector continue to be a trending issue on Chinese social media platforms.

A new production line featuring China's largest domestic electric arc furnace is now operational. China has implemented a new electric arc furnace to address carbon reduction goals in the steel industry.

China has completed its first 1.5 million-ton green steel production line. This process involves controlling crack formation at the radius of the inner and outer bends. This technology allows for better control over surface cracks and internal structural integrity.

China has implemented restrictions on the supply of critical minerals to Europe.

China has implemented stricter regulations for government officials whose family members reside outside the country. China has maintained its position as Africa's largest trading partner for over ten consecutive years. China's Ministry of Commerce spokesperson expressed strong opposition to US Federal Communications Commission restrictions on the telecommunications sector on May 1. China's Ministry of Commerce stated on May 1 that the FCC's restrictions on testing and certification in the telecom sector violate consensus between US and Chinese heads of state. Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met with Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib to discuss bilateral relations. Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met with US Treasury Secretary Scott Batson and US Trade Representative Jameson Greer on April 30.