Stories from Beijing · China

China's factory activity expanded for a second consecutive month according to a National Bureau of Statistics survey. This marks the first simultaneous growth in all three sectors since September of last year. The index reported a 7.8% increase in automotive production and a 4.6% rise in machinery and equipment. However, semiconductor production decreased by 8.1%. The National Data Bureau stated that the existing upward trend in production is being maintained despite the war in Iran. This ramp-up is driven by fears that Middle East conflicts could raise production costs. China's official manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) eased slightly to 50.3 in April. High energy costs and escalating conflict in the Middle East are exposing risks to China's production-led growth model. Subdued domestic consumption remains a key factor in the country's growth trajectory.

Solar and wind energy accounted for 22% of all electricity in China during 2025. The country leads globally in energy transition metrics, including electric vehicles, electric buses, and energy storage. This development follows China's expansion in renewable energy infrastructure. This figure represents approximately one-fifth of all electricity generated in the nation. Estimates suggest that nearly one-third of China's growth in 2025 was driven by the clean energy sector. The source noted that China remains a leader in the electric vehicle market. The scale of this transition is visible in many neighboring countries. About 90% of all investments in the sector were directed toward clean energy. The country is also actively implementing its own high-quality energy technology. A-share markets in mainland China will observe a five-day holiday for the May Day period.

The Geely Emgrand i-CM hybrid vehicle has achieved a new fuel efficiency record. Charging capabilities are no longer considered a barrier to adoption as charging stations have become widespread in most streets.

Gili has introduced the Galaxy line of vehicles powered by new energy sources. The lineup includes the M9 model, which features a distinct Gili logo. The new models are described as being particularly inspiring.

Industry experts are analyzing the transition from Level 3 to Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities. Zhang Yongwei stated that while new technologies like end-to-end driving are becoming part of development, they also introduce new security challenges.

Xie Wenyun, Deputy General Manager of Blue River Automotive Technology Co., Ltd., stated that the ultimate competition in autonomous driving is based on systemic capabilities rather than high technical parameters.

Chinese authorities are focusing on strategic priorities including energy security to limit external shocks and technological autonomy through industrial innovation. While support for consumption and real estate is mentioned, it remains a secondary priority.

Observers report that tactics are being used to disrupt the aid flotilla by targeting individual boats rather than the whole group. These tactics include intercepting and diverting boats one by one to break up the fleet.

Shipment volumes for the Apple industry chain are showing relatively high and transparent growth. Listed companies within the supply chain have reported increases in shipments in primary reports.

Beijing port entry and exit passenger numbers are predicted to exceed 334,000 during the upcoming holiday period. Beijing border authorities expect inbound and outbound passenger volume to exceed 334,000 people during the May 1 holiday period. Beijing port traffic reached 80,000 passenger trips on April 26, representing a 10.6% increase compared to the same period last year. This increase is attributed to visa facilitation policies and optimized travel supply structures. Li Ning, deputy captain of the second squad at the Beijing Border Inspection General Station, confirmed the expected volume. The surge follows a trend of increasing outbound tourism to Europe. The increase is supported by a continuous rise in deep travel to Europe. This movement coincides with the May Day holiday period.