Stories from Beijing · China

Chinese manufacturer Galbot, founded in 2023, has developed robots capable of real-time task planning. In pharmacy settings, the robots can receive a command, locate items, and deliver them to a counter in under 90 seconds. The technology allows for autonomous operation without human intervention during the retrieval process. In Beijing, similar robots are being used in grocery stores to greet customers and work alongside human staff.

The Chinese government has intervened to block a technology deal that previously appeared to be finalized. The Financial Times reported that two of the company's founders were barred from leaving China. Metta stated the transaction complied fully with applicable law and expects an appropriate resolution. The company moved to a Southeast Asian country last year. Manus is a Singapore-based company that originated in China and specializes in autonomous AI agents. The company's technology functions in the cloud to perform tasks without user prompting. Manus is a China-founded company now based in Singapore that produces an autonomous AI agent chatbot. Chinese regulators ordered the wind down of the deal despite Manus staff already working in Meta's Singapore offices to integrate AI capabilities.

Tech entrepreneur Luo Yonghao has publicly refuted accusations of ingratitude following the departure of four core anchors from East Buy. Luo Yonghao responded to online criticism regarding the departure of core anchors from East Buy, stating the exits were negotiated contract terminations rather than acts of ingratitude. Luo Yonghao issued a public response defending former Dongfang Zhenxuan anchors who left the company via negotiated contract terminations.

Twenty archaeological projects representing findings from 2025 are being presented to industry experts. Additional findings include sites in Henan spanning both the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods. The announcement was reported by Ding Fei of China National Radio. New archaeological findings at sites including Shanxi Xiyangzhongcun, Henan Zhengzhou Shangcheng, Shanxi Fuping Changchun, Shandong Qingdao Langya, Zhejiang Shaoxing Yue State Capital, and Ningxia Helan Mountains are reshaping understanding of regional civilization origins. Other discoveries include a high-ranking Late Xia dynasty noble wooden burial group and a sample of the Yelang Kingdom's political structure. The list also features the Langya Terrace, which reflects maritime strategy during the Qin and Han dynasties, and remains proving 6,000 years of human habitation in ancient cities.

The Shanghai Composite Index closed down 2 points, a 0.07% decrease, with a turnover of 727.3 billion yuan. The current risk release phase is expected to last two more trading days. Market volatility in China is expected to increase during the earnings disclosure period, particularly following April 20. Analysts anticipate a short-term rapid adjustment phase if company results miss expectations. A potential capital outflow effect may impact the market during the final two trading days before the upcoming holiday. The Hang Seng Index closed at 4,078.64 points, down 7.7 points or 0.19%. Foreign investment institutions increased holdings in 443 stocks during the first quarter of 2026. Six of these stocks have a market value exceeding 1 billion yuan and are leaders in their respective niche industries.

The Chinese Ministry of Education released the 2026 catalog for undergraduate majors in ordinary higher education institutions. Twelve new geological parks in China have joined the UNESCO World Geoparks Network. Cheng Shuang, Deputy Director of the Education Department, stated that higher education institutions are encouraged to proactively occupy emerging interdisciplinary fields. Support is being provided for academic focus on sectors including bio-breeding, photoelectric information materials, low-altitude economy, and quantum technology. This initiative aims to strengthen the internal substance of professional structures through adjustment. Cheng Shuang, Deputy Director of the Heilongjiang Provincial Department of Education, stated support for universities to break disciplinary boundaries and cultivate interdisciplinary research.

A new breed of robotic rover is undergoing trials in China to assist visually impaired individuals. The four-legged robots are designed to navigate various terrains to increase user independence. These high-tech companions function as mobile assistive devices for users to move through the world with increased confidence. The technology aims to provide more mobility than traditional assistive devices. The group currently has more than 13,000 registered members, including over 3,000 people with disabilities. Since 2024, the organization has organized more than 3,000 activities to promote social accessibility through sports. One member reported completing 10 marathons this year, including three full marathons, with a personal best time of 3 hours and 52 minutes.

Reports indicate China is developing tactical nuclear weapons, including mini nukes and dangerous missiles, posing a threat to India's neighborhood. The US has issued warnings regarding these developments.

Beijing Union Hospital is participating in a global technical race regarding brain-computer interface technology.

Estimates suggest there are over 90 million Christians in China. The state is implementing a policy of 'sinicization' to align religious doctrines and structures with political power. Open Doors reports these figures regarding the religious population. China is applying political and administrative control over an estimated 90 million Christians. State-recognized communities are integrated into a control system, while non-aligned groups, including house churches, Protestants, and non-aligned Catholics, face pressure, surveillance, and arbitrary detention. The case of Pastor Ezra Jin is cited as a example of these pressures. The government's actions target religious groups that refuse state integration. China secured a 5-0 victory against India in the Group A matches of the tournament held in Beijing.