Stories from China

China's bulk commodity market has demonstrated strong resilience against external shocks, according to Zhou Shuo, Vice President of the China Federation of Metalworkers' Association. This strength is attributed to the effective implementation of energy supply security policies. Prices for black commodities and non-ferrous metals saw slight increases of 1.5% and 1.4% respectively. Zhou Shuo, Vice President of the China Federation of Industry and Commerce's Bulk Commodity Branch, stated that the market's robustness is primarily due to these policies. Despite global economic pressures, key commodity prices have remained stable. This stability suggests underlying strength in the Chinese market. The 134th Canton Fair concluded today, attracting over 310,000 overseas buyers and setting new records across key indicators.

Retailers in Shanghai are preparing for high foot traffic as May Day holiday discounts coincide with the Shanghai '55' Shopping Festival. Shanghai's consumer market is experiencing a surge during the 2026 '55 Shopping Festival' and the Shanghai station of the China International Consumer Products Expo. Shanghai is hosting the 7th Shanghai '55 Shopping Festival' as part of the 2026 Consumption Season in China. During China's International Consumer Season Shanghai Station, online and offline consumption reached 64.3 billion yuan from April 30 to May 4, a 7.7% year-on-year increase. Consumer spending in Shanghai surged during a recent shopping festival, indicating a strong recovery in retail activity. During the 2026 '55 Shopping Festival' in Shanghai, over 300 events are being launched daily across various districts and commercial areas.

The first barbecue academy in China is located in Shenyang, offering practical training in barbecue techniques. The academy has become a tourist destination in the Huashan North Market area.

Iran has increased its threats amid a US operation, with statements indicating a potential direct military conflict if US vessels attempt to pass through contested waters. The source also mentioned that Iran's low-cost drones pose a threat to F-35 aircraft.

There is a societal push to foster a culture that respects labor, knowledge, talent, and creativity. A judge explained that while workers have autonomy, this cannot violate mandatory legal provisions. Employers must adhere to legal, necessary, and reasonable criteria when reassigning employees, especially those with disabilities. The source discussed the benefits of NMN supplements, particularly for sleep quality and cognitive function, and noted their affordability in Taiwan compared to the Americas. Reassigning disabled workers requires meeting legal, necessary, and reasonable conditions, which are indispensable. This legislation aims to ensure fair employment practices. Chinese law protects workers who are illegally reassigned from their jobs. Simply citing business needs is insufficient to justify illegal reassignment.

Guangdong is expected to experience windy and rainy weather due to high-altitude disturbances. Guangdong Province is expected to experience cloudy weather with scattered showers today and tomorrow, with temperatures around 21 degrees Celsius.

More than 480 emergency responders are currently on-site at a factory in Luoyang following a blast. Local residents near the facility have been evacuated to safety.

Authorities are said safety responsibility and risk investigation and rectification in key industries and sectors to ensure public safety and protect lives and property. Officials said the importance of adhering to safety protocols and preventing illegal production activities during a press conference. National health and meteorological authorities have jointly issued a notice, urging vigilance and prevention measures. The broadcast also mentioned the importance of good raw materials for good products and highlighted the use of specific cooking methods for various dishes. It was noted that the lottery system was not always fair and was controlled by insider information in 1870, leading to social problems. Current operations involve law enforcement representatives, random ball selection, and verification of results. The machinery and balls used are kept in a secure, independent location.

More than 1 million inbound and outbound travelers have been processed at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport during the 139th Canton Fair. The Canton Fair concluded on the same day. As of May 5th, Guangzhou Baiyun Airport has processed over 1.14 million inbound and outbound travelers, a 14.5% increase year-on-year. This represents a 14.5% increase compared to the same period last year. Foreign business travelers were identified as a primary driver of the increased passenger flow. The growth is attributed to efficient entry policies supporting the Canton Fair. Guangzhou Baiyun Airport recorded over 1,700 inbound and outbound flights between May 1 and May 5. Inbound and outbound personnel reached approximately 290,000, representing a 16% increase from the previous year. Foreign travelers accounted for over 540,000 arrivals, a 20.8% year-on-year increase.

On February 9, 2026, the provincial economic management department issued an administrative penalty decision, fining a company 15,000 yuan and issuing a warning for violating regulations. President Xi Jinping has ordered rescue efforts following a fireworks explosion.