Stories from Beijing · China

The use of large AI models can reduce the time required for tasks like script determination and storyboard production from over a week to just one or two days. This process facilitates the transition into AI-driven short drama production.

The Bonafilm Group has received authorization to release the 90-minute animated film Sensing Dwi Future Memories in theaters. Once a sample is produced, it must be submitted to a platform for review and confirmation of production details. The process requires strict consistency in visual content for series, such as a 100-minute short drama consisting of 400 15-second segments. Following platform approval, the subsequent creation and operation processes follow standard procedures. China's State Administration for Market Regulation has issued requirements stating that AI-generated short videos must be registered before they can be launched online. Beijing has authorized the theatrical release of a feature-length film largely generated by artificial intelligence. The rest of the global film industry remains hesitant regarding the technology.

Shares in major Chinese rare earth producers rose following government announcements of detailed penalties for unauthorized production. The move is part of Beijing's effort to bolster control over the sector.

China Merchants Bank shares fell by more than 4% following reports regarding pork price stability. Retail prices for certain varieties, specifically 'white-strip' pork, have fallen below 6 USD per unit. Industry experts and supermarket officials are monitoring whether these prices will continue to drop or begin to rise again. Rib prices have dropped from 40 units last year to 20 units this year. Black pork prices have also fallen below 20 units. Market participants noted that different retail channels report varying levels of impact from this price decline. Data from the Beijing Price Monitoring Center showed fresh pork retail prices at 12.05 yuan on April 29. Wholesale prices for white-strip pork in China decreased by approximately 4% compared to the same period last month and 0.5% from last week.

Beijing authorities will implement new heatwave management regulations starting May 1. Footage from DJI retail shops across Beijing shows no drones currently in stock. Outside of Beijing, drone use remains common for tourism, such as at Huashan Mountain near Xi'an. The restrictions are attributed to increasing drone popularity and government oversight. The ban follows previous existing difficulties regarding drone and aircraft operations in the area. Police are conducting checks to ensure compliance with flight rules. Exceptions exist for specific drone sizes and designated green or white zones on flight maps where certain heights are permitted. Flying outside these designated areas in the capital is described as very difficult. The new regulations prohibit the flight, sale, transport, carrying, and storage of drones.

DeepSeek is reportedly facing financial difficulties due to a lack of revenue as users continue to rely on free services. The shortage of funds is impacting the company's ability to compete for talent.

Jing Bin, a deputy director at the State Post Bureau, stated that autonomous driving technology must be self-controllable to ensure healthy and sustainable industry development.

Automotive executives state that Level 3 (L3) conditional automated driving is a necessary step toward high-level autonomy rather than an optional feature. Li Wenguang, president of Yiwang Intelligent Driving, noted that L3 requires accident-free intervals of hundreds of thousands of kilometers compared to tens or hundreds for L2. Chinese technology firms and automakers are identifying Level 3 conditional autonomous driving as a necessary transition for users. Yang Zhengjun, Vice General Manager of a Chinese intelligent technology firm, noted that Level 3 autonomy provides a necessary transition for regulations and insurance systems. Industry analysis indicates a reliability gap between current driver-assistance systems and L3 autonomous driving. Level 3 conditional autonomous driving is viewed as a necessary transition period for users to move toward Level 4 full autonomy.

The Chinese government has implemented a package of macro-economic regulation policies to strengthen policy coordination.

Chen Binhua of the Taiwan Affairs Office in Beijing stated that US involvement in Taiwan issues makes the situation more dangerous. The office said that it will coordinate with relevant departments to implement policies promoting cross-strait exchange and cooperation. Chen noted that peaceful reunification would allow Taiwan to benefit from the mainland's large market and economic advantages. The office asserted that peaceful development and prosperity would gain widespread support from the Taiwanese people. He stated that external protection is unreliable and places Taiwan in greater danger. Chen said that the unification of the motherland is non-negotiable regardless of weapon purchases. He also noted that the ten policy measures for cross-strait exchange are being implemented to promote prosperity and livelihood.