Stories from Beijing · China

A Chinese research team has achieved a breakthrough in nuclear fusion technology. Scientists in China are working to develop a nuclear fusion reactor referred to as the 'artificial sun.' The project aims to provide a source of clean, limitless energy. National media coverage suggests the technology has reached a level of development. China has achieved full independent research, manufacturing, and testing for the D1B project, with materials, craftsmanship, and high-heat fusion tests meeting international leading standards. This represents a core breakthrough for the engineering implementation of controllable nuclear fusion, with all materials and processes being independently developed.

Western fast fashion brands face potential inflation if they must procure raw materials at higher costs due to shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

China-Africa trade volume surpassed $300 billion for the first time in 2025. Trade grew by 23.7% year-on-year during the first quarter of this year. China has maintained its position as Africa's largest trading partner for seven consecutive years. The growth is supported by zero-tariff policies and increased industrial investment. This cooperation occurs amid rising global protectionism and unilateralism. Yuan Xiaohui, a researcher at the West Asia and Africa Institute, stated that cooperation has moved beyond pure trade into industrial integration. Morocco is reportedly seeking Chinese equipment for mineral development, new energy, and low-altitude economy sectors. The shift includes investments in industrial parks, mining, and assembly plants.

The 14th National People's Congress Standing Committee held a constitutional oath ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Thursday morning. The event followed a special lecture held by the committee. The session focused on legislative strengthening in key and emerging sectors.

China has identified three critical maritime supply bottlenecks involving the Armuz, Moluk, and Taiwan straits. Experts suggest price decreases are unlikely due to ongoing global disruptions. Demand remains strong as passengers compete for fewer available seats. Passenger demand remains strong, leading to increased competition for limited availability. Prices for Greece are currently at their lowest between May and September. The European Union is considering projects to better protect travelers, including potentially obligating carriers to stop charging extra for a second cabin bag and improving compensation in case of delays. Airlines visited Brussels this week to request the cancellation of a proposed regulation. The source noted that carriers have used various methods to increase profits over several years.

Yang Zhengjun, Vice General Manager of Zhongqi Intelligent Technology, analyzed new safety challenges brought by emerging autonomous driving technologies.

Thangka paintings in the exhibition utilize precious natural mineral pigments including red from cinnabar and green from malachite. Creating a medium-sized Thangka painting requires at least 200 working days of meticulous work.

Chinese investors are undergoing a transition from being unfamiliar with Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) to becoming increasingly comfortable with the concept. This trend included activity in gold, stock, and bond ETFs throughout last year. The shift represents a growing conceptual understanding of these financial instruments within the domestic market. International financial institutions suggest that the weight of Chinese assets in global investment portfolios is expected to rise systematically. This shift is attributed to a revaluation of the core competitiveness of the Chinese economy. The trend follows recent market activity involving international financial institutions and M&A transactions. Statistical data shows foreign participation in Chinese financial market M&A transactions in 2025.

The annual average Arctic sea ice extent in 2025 reached its lowest level since satellite observations began in 1979. Reporters Without Borders director Mathieu Brutin reported a drop in press freedom rankings this year. The decline is attributed to measures implemented by Donald Trump to control information and silence critical voices. These measures include defunding public service media and conducting repeated trials against investigative journalists. The country was already classified as problematic in 2024. Al-Yonas Drusch from Reporters Without Borders stated that the country's ranking is due to targeted promotion of freedom of opinion. The nation maintains an independent media authority that ensures transparency regarding media ownership and is overseen by competition authorities.

Domestic chip shipments in China are progressing smoothly despite previous computing power shortages. The growth in token usage reflects both rising demand and improved supply capabilities. Optimization of computing power models and algorithms has enabled large-scale models to be applied to domestic chip computing infrastructure. Analysts are shifting focus from technical parameters to the commercial monetization capabilities of AI companies. Chief Statistician Huo Li-hui reported that the manufacturing business activity expectation index has risen for three consecutive months. Chief Statistician Huo Lihui stated that market expectations continue to strengthen. China's manufacturing sector confidence has increased for the third consecutive month, according to Chief Statistician Huo Lihui. China's official manufacturing purchasing managers index (PMI) dipped to 50.3 from 50.4 in March.