#china

China Suspends Import Licenses of 3 Indian Rice Exporters, Terms Produce GMO Nagpur: Chinese authorities have suspended the import licenses of three Indian rice exporters, including one based in Nagpur, after rejecting their consignments as genetically modified organism (GMO) material. This marks the first time in recent history that Indian rice exporters have faced such a suspension by China, raising concerns about the impact on India’s position as a global leader in rice exports. The decision comes amid ongoing tensions between the two nations over trade regulations and agricultural standards. The affected companies are Shriram Food Industry Ltd from Nagpur, Spone Enterprises Private Ltd based in Raipur, and NM Foodimpex Private Ltd from Haryana. Chinese officials reportedly turned back shipments of broken rice from these companies last month, citing GMO contamination. Despite a non-GMO certificate issued by a Chinese state-owned agency with a laboratory in Visakhapatnam, the consignments were rejected. The certificate, which the Times of India has access to, was reportedly issued before the shipments departed. Chinese authorities have now instructed the Agriculture and Processed Food Products Development Export Development Authority (APEDA) to inspect the facilities of the three companies to determine whether the rice was indeed GMO. However, the exporters argue that APEDA’s focus should be on seed producers or growers rather than rice mills, which only process paddy. The inspection process, managed by an agency under the Ministry of Commerce, is expected to be lengthy, potentially delaying exports from these companies until the review is complete. The suspension highlights a growing concern over China’s stringent non-GMO requirements for Indian rice imports.#india #china #shriram_food_industry_ltd #spone_enterprises_private_ltd #nm_foodimpex_private_ltd

China Hails Successful Test Of Deep-Sea Tool Built To Sever Deep-Sea Network Cables China has announced the successful testing of a specialized deep-sea electro-hydrostatic actuator designed to sever undersea telecommunications cables at depths of 3,500 meters, marking a significant advancement in its deep-sea intervention capabilities. The trial, conducted by researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and reported by state media, demonstrates the device’s ability to operate in the abyssal zone, where most of the world’s critical internet and data infrastructure is located. This development underscores China’s growing technological prowess in underwater operations and its potential strategic implications for global connectivity. The electro-hydrostatic actuator is engineered to be self-contained and highly efficient, enabling it to be mounted on small, unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). During the latest tests, the tool successfully cut through high-tension cables without requiring a large surface support fleet or cumbersome umbilicals. This compact design allows for deployment from standard research vessels or even commercial ships, making it difficult for foreign maritime powers to detect such activities. The Haiyang Dizhi 2 research vessel completed its first deep-sea scientific mission of the year, highlighting the practical application of this technology. Strategically, the device’s operational depth of 3,500 meters places nearly all of the South China Sea’s seabed infrastructure within reach. While China has officially framed the technology as a tool for deep-sea maintenance, salvage, and scientific exploration, state-affiliated reports suggest it is also prepared for more assertive roles.#china #south_china_sea #chinese_academy_of_sciences #haiyang_dizhi_2 #undersea_cables

Iran War: Trump’s Hormuz Blockade Tests U.S. Ties with China and India The U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has intensified diplomatic tensions with two key Asian allies—China and India—as Washington’s maximum pressure campaign on Iran risks destabilizing fragile relationships. The move, which has disrupted global oil flows, has exposed vulnerabilities in both nations’ energy dependencies while raising concerns about potential miscalculations that could escalate into a crisis. The blockade, part of President Donald Trump’s broader strategy to pressure Iran, has had a dual impact. While it aims to cripple Tehran’s economy by cutting off oil exports, it has also created ripple effects across Asia. China, which relies heavily on Iranian oil, has faced criticism for its stance, while India, a major importer of Middle Eastern energy, has found itself caught between U.S. policy and its own economic interests. China’s exposure to the crisis remains more manageable than that of other major economies. With roughly 98% of Iranian oil exports bound for Beijing, the nation’s vast oil reserves and diversified energy mix have provided a buffer. Maritime intelligence firm Windward estimates that over 157.7 million barrels of Iranian crude were en route to China as of Tuesday, underscoring the scale of the disruption. Analysts note that China’s strategic stockpiles, combined with barrels in transit, cover more than 120 days of net imports. This allows the country to absorb the shock by shifting to alternative sources like coal, according to Dan Wang of Eurasia Group. However, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, accused China of being an “unreliable global partner,” criticizing Beijing for hoarding oil supplies instead of easing the global energy crunch.#donald_trump #china #strait_of_hormuz #scott_bessent #guo_jiakun

Bangladesh's foreign policy has become a focal point of debate, particularly in the wake of its new government's approach to balancing relations with major powers like the United States, China, and India. The country faces complex challenges, including energy shortages, regional tensions, and the need to navigate competing interests of global superpowers. The recent shift in U.S.-Bangladesh relations has sparked discussions about whether the new administration is leaning toward Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump's correspondence with Prime Minister Tariq Rahman highlighted the importance of the Indo-Pacific strategy, framing Bangladesh as a key player in regional security. However, this has raised concerns among analysts about potential tensions with China, which has significant investments in Bangladesh's economy. Dr. Laila Yasmin, a professor of international relations, warns that Bangladesh must avoid prioritizing U.S. interests at the expense of Chinese investments, which are critical for the country's economic growth. Meanwhile, India remains a strategic partner due to shared borders and economic ties. Bangladesh exports nearly $50 billion worth of goods annually, relying heavily on imports from both India and China. Analysts emphasize that Bangladesh's foreign policy must balance these relationships to avoid geopolitical entanglements. Former U.S. diplomat Humayun Kabir notes that past biases in favor of one nation have led to complications, and the current government must adopt a more neutral stance to avoid similar pitfalls. The Iran conflict has further complicated Bangladesh's foreign policy. Initially, the government avoided criticizing Iran's actions, but a subsequent statement expressed condolences for the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, signaling a more balanced approach.#united_states #india #china #bangladesh #tariq_rahman

UNSC Veto Blocks Hormuz Opening Vote as Russia and China Reject Resolution The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) faced a critical moment on April 7, 2026, as a resolution aimed at urging Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz was blocked by Russia and China, who exercised their veto power. The vote, held just hours before U.S. President Donald Trump’s deadline for Iran to unblock the strategic waterway, marked the end of a final attempt to de-escalate tensions. The resolution, proposed by Bahrain and supported by 11 council members, sought to encourage nations to ensure safe navigation through the strait, but its rejection left the region in limbo. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global energy trade, has been a flashpoint since February 28, when U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in multiple countries, including Gulf neighbors, triggered retaliatory attacks by Iran. The conflict has disrupted oil shipments, driving energy prices to record highs. Trump, who has threatened to target Iran’s infrastructure if it does not comply with demands, set a deadline for Iran to reopen the strait by 8 p.m. U.S. time, adding urgency to the UNSC vote. Bahrain’s resolution, which initially called for “all necessary measures” to secure the strait, including military action, was revised to exclude aggressive measures. The final version emphasized “defensive actions” and cooperation among nations to ensure safe passage. However, Russia and China, both permanent UNSC members with veto rights, rejected the proposal, citing concerns over the use of force. Their opposition effectively stalled the resolution, leaving no binding mechanism to compel Iran to unblock the strait. The vote highlighted the deep divisions within the UNSC. While 11 members supported the resolution, Colombia and Pakistan abstained.#iran #china #strait_of_hormuz #russia #united_nations_security_council

Copper Market Shifts Structural as AI Demand and Supply Deficits Tighten Outlook China remains the anchor of global copper demand, but its role is evolving. In previous cycles, higher prices often triggered a familiar response: weaker domestic consumption and increased refined exports from Chinese smelters. This time, that elasticity appears lower. Grid investment, property stabilization efforts and industrial policy are keeping demand more resilient, even at elevated prices. That reduces the likelihood of China acting as a swing exporter and instead positions it as a steady absorber of supply. The key signal is whether infrastructure and energy investment translate into sustained physical demand rather than inventory accumulation. If it does, the usual supply relief mechanism may not materialize. New demand drivers are layering onto the existing demand structure. Data centres expansion linked to AI and high-performance computing is emerging as a non-traditional but fast-growing source of copper demand. Forecasts suggest around 475kt of demand in 2026, up roughly 110kt year-on-year. While still small relative to total demand, its growth is rapid and geographically concentrated, tightening regional supply conditions. At the same time, electrification continues to scale. Electric vehicles require two to four times more copper than internal combustion engines, while renewable energy systems and grid upgrades are structurally copper-intensive. These trends are not sensitive to short-term price movements; they are policy-driven and capital-intensive, making demand more persistent. Supply constraints remain the limiting factor in the market. The International Copper Study Group projects a refined copper deficit of around 150,000 tonnes in 2026, reflecting ongoing constraints.#renewable_energy #electric_vehicles #china #international_copper_study_group #data_centres

India-China Relations Ease as Indian Delegation Visits China For the first time in over five years, a delegation of Indian businesses visited China, marking a significant step in the gradual thawing of strained ties between the two nations. The visit, which took place between March 29 and April 4, saw eight Indian companies engage with Chinese firms in Shanghai, Zhejiang, and Wuxi, according to Ranjeet Mehta, secretary general and CEO of the Indian trade body PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The delegation focused on exploring collaborations in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, battery solutions, and renewable energy technologies, areas critical to India’s energy security and economic growth. The timing of the visit coincided with heightened global energy volatility, driven by the ongoing Iran war and its impact on supply chains. India, the world’s third-largest oil importer and second-largest consumer of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), has long relied on oil and gas supplies transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Recent disruptions in this critical route have exposed India’s vulnerability to energy price shocks and supply chain instability, prompting a renewed interest in diversifying its energy partnerships. Mehta emphasized that energy security is now a top priority for India, especially amid the challenges posed by the Middle East conflict. The Indian delegation’s focus on renewable energy and EV technologies reflects broader strategic goals. India aims to have electric vehicles account for 30% of total car sales by 2030, but adoption has been hindered by inadequate charging infrastructure and persistent range anxiety among consumers.#india #china #shanghai_cooperation_organization #phd_chamber_of_commerce_and_industry #ranjeet_mehta

Your Favorite Apps May Be Tracking You: Here's How to Stay Safe The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning about the potential risks posed by foreign-developed mobile applications, particularly those developed by companies based in China. The agency highlights concerns that these apps may collect sensitive personal information, including contact details, email addresses, phone numbers, and physical addresses, while also storing data on servers located in China. The advisory emphasizes that users should be cautious about the permissions they grant to apps and take proactive steps to protect their data. The FBI’s alert underscores that many of the most downloaded and highest-grossing apps are developed by companies outside the United States. Some of these companies are based in China, where national security laws require businesses to comply with government mandates that could involve sharing data collected through their platforms. The agency explains that while these apps are widely used in the U.S., similar data security risks exist globally. When users download an app, they are typically prompted to allow specific permissions, such as access to contacts, location, or camera. If these permissions are approved, the app can continuously collect information from the device, even when the app is not actively in use. The FBI notes that some apps may gather personal details such as names, email addresses, and phone numbers, and in cases where users are invited to share their contacts, developers could access the entire address book. This means that personal information of individuals not using the app could also be exposed. The agency further warns that some apps may store collected data on servers located in China, where it could be retained indefinitely.#data_privacy #china #federal_bureau_of_investigation #mobile_apps #app_permissions

FBI Warns Users About Data Risks From Foreign Apps The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a public warning about the potential dangers of certain foreign-developed mobile applications, particularly those originating from China. The agency’s advisory highlights the risks associated with these apps, emphasizing that they may be subject to local laws requiring companies to disclose user data to government authorities. This could expose users’ personal information, even if the apps appear harmless at first glance. The FBI’s warning serves as a cautionary message to users about the broader implications of downloading such applications and the potential compromise of their digital privacy. The FBI’s advisory specifically references China’s National Intelligence Law, which mandates that organizations and citizens support state intelligence efforts when required. Under this law, companies operating within China’s jurisdiction could be legally obligated to comply with government requests for user data. This legal framework raises concerns about the security of data stored or transmitted through apps developed by Chinese entities. The FBI warns that such compliance could lead to the unauthorized access of personal information, including sensitive details such as location data, communication records, and financial transactions. Users are advised to recognize that their data may not be fully protected if they engage with apps governed by such laws. In addition to legal risks, the FBI highlights the potential for background data collection and malware threats. Some apps may continue to gather information from a device even when not actively in use, accessing data beyond the scope of their intended functionality.#china #fbi #apple_app_store #google_play #national_intelligence_law

FBI Warns iPhone and Android Users Against Installing Apps Linked to Data Risks The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning to iPhone and Android users about potential risks associated with certain mobile applications, particularly those developed by foreign entities. The agency highlighted that these apps may collect and store personal data overseas, even if users have not explicitly installed them. The FBI emphasized that apps linked to China, such as Shein, Capcut, and others, could access extensive user data once permissions are granted. This includes not only personal information but also details from contact lists, such as names, phone numbers, and email addresses. The FBI’s advisory outlined specific warning signs that users should be aware of, including unusual battery drain, increased data usage, or suspicious account activity following the installation of an app. These indicators may suggest that an app is collecting more data than intended. The agency stressed that even individuals who do not use such apps could be affected if a friend or family member grants an app access to their contacts. Developers of these apps may store collected data, including private information and address books, which could be used for purposes beyond the user’s awareness. The FBI’s warning underscores the broader implications of data privacy in the digital age. While the agency did not explicitly name all potentially risky apps, it encouraged users to exercise caution when downloading applications, especially those from foreign developers. The advisory also highlighted the importance of reviewing app permissions and understanding what data is being accessed. Users are advised to regularly check their device settings and revoke unnecessary permissions to minimize the risk of data exposure.#data_privacy #china #fbi #shein #capcut

India Restricts Chinese CCTV Makers, Boosts Domestic Manufacturers India’s government has implemented new regulations that effectively ban the use of Chinese-made CCTV cameras, marking a significant shift in the country’s security technology market. Effective April 1, 2026, the legislation mandates that all CCTV systems must comply with stringent safety and origin disclosure requirements, directly impacting companies like Hikvision and Dahua. This move has created a vacuum in the market, allowing Indian manufacturers to expand their presence and reshape the industry’s dynamics. The regulations, introduced by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in April 2024, require manufacturers to disclose the origin of critical components such as the System-on-Chip (SoC) and undergo vulnerability checks to prevent unauthorized remote access. These norms also necessitate certification under the STQC (Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification) regime at accredited labs. As of February 2026, 507 CCTV camera models have been certified by the government, signaling a transition period that has lasted two years. Market data from Counterpoint Research reveals that Indian companies now dominate over 80% of the CCTV market, a stark contrast to the previous dominance of Chinese and global players. In 2024, Chinese firms held one-third of the market, while Indian vendors captured another third. Multinational brands like Bosch and Honeywell controlled the high-end segment, leaving the remaining 20% to smaller traders. However, the new rules have forced Chinese manufacturers to either alter their supply chains or exit the market entirely. Anup Nair, director of strategy and operations at Aditya Infotech (which owns the CP Plus brand), highlighted the challenges faced by Chinese firms.#india #china #meity #hikvision #dahua

China Red-Flags Indian Rice As GMO, Sparks Export Concerns China has rejected rice shipments from three Indian companies, including Nagpur-based Shriram Food Industries, citing the presence of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the grains. The move has raised concerns about its potential impact on India’s export markets. The rejected consignments, which were destined for animal fodder and industrial use rather than human consumption, had previously been cleared by China’s state-owned China Certification and Inspection Group (CCIC). Copies of these certificates, obtained by The Times of India, show the shipments were approved before leaving Indian ports. The rejection comes despite prior non-GMO certifications issued by CCIC, which operates in both India and China. The affected companies, based in Nagpur, Delhi, and Raipur, are now seeking clarification from Indian authorities such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Industry sources suggest the move could be part of a broader trade strategy, as China has historically imposed strict regulations on imported rice. India exports approximately 3 million tonnes of rice to China annually, accounting for about 18% of China’s annual 16 million tonne demand. Other major exporters to China include Vietnam, Thailand, and Pakistan. However, the non-GMO certification requirement appears to be uniquely applied to Indian shipments, according to trade sources. This has raised concerns that the GMO designation could affect India’s ability to export rice to other markets, including Africa, Russia, and the United States. The rejected shipments consisted of non-basmati broken rice, a commodity with significant demand in China. Indian non-basmati rice was previously banned in China until 2016, when diplomatic efforts opened the market, leading to a surge in trade.#nagpur #delhi #china #raipur #shriram_food_industries

Women in China Are Turning to AI Chatbots as Romantic Partners, Complicating Birth Rate Efforts A growing number of women in China are using artificial intelligence chatbots as virtual romantic partners, a trend that is complicating the government’s efforts to boost the country’s birth rate. According to a report by The New York Times, these AI-driven relationships are becoming increasingly common, with users engaging in daily interactions through specialized apps. The phenomenon has raised concerns among officials, who view it as a challenge to their demographic policies. The apps allow users to communicate with AI-generated characters that mimic human traits and behaviors. These virtual partners can be customized to reflect specific personalities, and interactions often involve discussions about personal topics, shared experiences, and even simulated life events such as marriage and child-rearing. Some platforms enable users to generate text and voice messages, supporting long-term conversations without strict content restrictions. The market for such services has expanded rapidly since the widespread adoption of AI technology in China. Dozens of platforms focused on emotional connections have emerged, offering both short-term dialogues and extended relationship scenarios. One notable example is the Xingye app, developed by the startup MiniMax, which was valued at over $600 million after its listing in Hong Kong. Combined with the global version of Talkie, these services reportedly had more than 147 million users as of September. Chinese authorities have expressed concerns about the impact of these chatbots on societal norms and demographic trends. The country is currently facing one of its lowest birth rates in decades, and officials have introduced new regulations to address the issue.#china #the_new_york_times #ai_chatbots #mini_max #xingye_app

China boycotts top AI conference after ban on papers from US-sanctioned entities China’s largest federation for science and technology professionals announced a boycott of the Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS), a leading artificial intelligence conference, following a policy change by the California-based foundation that organizes the event. The decision to exclude submissions from entities under U.S. sanctions, including Chinese tech companies like Huawei and SMIC (0981.HK), sparked significant backlash in China, which is engaged in a fierce competition with the United States to advance cutting-edge AI technologies. NeurIPS, a key platform for global researchers to share peer-reviewed work and recruit talent, now faces criticism for its new stance, which aligns with U.S. legal requirements. The Chinese Association for Science and Technology (CAST) stated it would halt funding applications for members wishing to attend NeurIPS and redirect them to domestic or internationally recognized conferences that respect the interests of Chinese academics. CAST also clarified that research papers accepted at NeurIPS would no longer qualify as valid outputs for its funding programs, though they would still be acknowledged for their academic impact if evaluated by Chinese academic societies. This move underscores the growing influence of geopolitical tensions on AI research, as both the U.S. and China leverage state power to shape each other’s technological capabilities. The U.S. has intensified scrutiny of Chinese scientists at American universities, investigating alleged ties to entities in mainland China. Sanctions have been imposed on hundreds of Chinese universities and companies, restricting their access to advanced U.S. technology.#us #china #cast #neurips #huawei

China 2-0 Curaçao in Friendly Match China secured a 2-0 victory over Curaçao in a FIFA friendly match on March 27, 2026, at Sydney Stadium. The game, part of a series of international fixtures, saw the home team capitalize on key moments to claim the win. The first goal came in the second half when Zhang Yuning delivered a precise header into the box, setting up Wei Shihao for a powerful left-footed strike that found the back of the net. The second goal followed shortly after, with Zhang Yuning again playing a pivotal role in creating space for Wei Shihao to score. The match was marked by intense action and several critical moments. Early in the first half, a promising attack by Curaçao was thwarted by Liu Haofan’s timely intervention, preventing a goal. The visitors also faced challenges, as a powerful shot by Juninho Bacuna cleared the crossbar, and a deflected effort by Wang Shangyuan failed to find the net. Despite these setbacks, Curaçao pressed forward, with Juninho Bacuna and Brandley Kuwas attempting to break through, though both efforts were either saved or ruled out for offside. Substitutions played a role in shaping the second half. China replaced Xie Wenneng with Behram Abduweli, while Curaçao introduced Tahith Chong, Jeremy Antonisse, Jearl Margaritha, and Gervane Kastaneer, replacing several players. The game remained competitive, with both teams creating chances but struggling to convert them. A notable moment came when Leandro Bacuna was injured, prompting a brief stoppage, though he returned to the field after medical attention. The match also highlighted defensive resilience from China, as Liu Haofan and Wang Yudong made crucial tackles to deny Curaçao opportunities. Despite Curaçao’s efforts, China’s ability to maintain possession and exploit spaces in the opposition’s defense proved decisive.#china #curaao #sydney_stadium #zhang_yuning #wei_shihao

iQOO Z11 Launches in China with 9,020mAh Battery and Dimensity 8500 SoC The iQOO Z11 has been officially launched in China as the next-generation model in the company’s mid-range Z-series lineup. The smartphone succeeds the iQOO Z10, which previously launched in India at a starting price of Rs 21,999. However, due to rising component costs and current market conditions, the Z11 is unlikely to match its predecessor’s pricing if it eventually reaches the Indian market. In China, the Z11 starts at CNY 2,299 (~Rs 31,000) for the base 8GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. Higher configurations are available, with prices increasing as follows: 12GB + 256GB at CNY 2,499 (~Rs 34,000), 16GB + 512GB at CNY 2,799 (~Rs 38,100), 12GB + 512GB at CNY 2,999 (~Rs 40,800), and 16GB + 512GB at CNY 3,399 (~Rs 46,300). The device will be sold through the company’s official website in three color options: Canglang Fuguang, Skylight White, and Polar Night Black. The Z11 features a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate, offering smoother visuals and enhanced gaming performance. The screen also supports a 300Hz touch sampling rate, HDR compatibility, and a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut for vibrant displays. Under the hood, the phone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 SoC, a 4nm mid-range chipset that outperforms the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 in raw processing power. Battery life is a key highlight, with the Z11 equipped with a 9,020mAh capacity, significantly larger than the Z10’s battery. It supports 90W fast charging and OTG reverse charging, allowing users to power other devices. The phone’s design accommodates the large battery while maintaining a slim profile of 163.72×76.17×8.25mm and a weight of 216.5 grams.#china #originos_6 #iqoo #iqoo_z11 #dimensity_8500

India among five nations granted passage through Strait of Hormuz by Iran Global oil and gas prices have risen sharply following Iran’s near-blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman that accounts for about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced that India, along with China, Russia, Iraq, and Pakistan, has been permitted to transit through the waterway for commercial purposes. The Iranian leader emphasized that ships associated with Iran’s adversaries would not be allowed to pass through the strategic chokepoint. “We are in a state of war. The region is a war zone, and there is no reason to allow the ships of our enemies and their allies to pass through. But it remains open to others,” Araghchi stated, according to Iranian state television. The decision to grant access to select nations has sparked concerns about the stability of global energy supplies. The Strait of Hormuz has been a focal point of geopolitical tensions, with disruptions in its traffic threatening to disrupt fuel and fertilizer supplies for countries reliant on imports. India, which sources a significant portion of its energy from the Middle East, has been actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in the region and ensure uninterrupted energy flows. The Iranian Foreign Minister’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, with the U.S. under President Donald Trump adjusting its strategy regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has warned Iran of severe consequences if it does not fully reopen the waterway, raising questions about the potential for further escalation.#iran #india #china #strait_of_hormuz #iranian_foreign_minister

The least surprising chapter of the Manus story is what’s happening right now The U.S. and China are locked in an intense competition to dominate the AI landscape, with Beijing pouring billions into domestic projects while its top talent increasingly migrates to American firms. Amid this rivalry, Manus — a once-prominent Chinese AI startup — quietly shifted its operations to Singapore and sold itself to Meta for $2 billion, a move that has sparked significant scrutiny from Chinese authorities. Manus had already established itself as a major player, boasting millions of users and over $100 million in annual recurring revenue by late 2025. Its decision to pivot to Singapore, however, was far from incidental. The company relocated its headquarters and core team from Beijing, restructured its ownership, and actively distanced itself from Chinese regulatory oversight. Meta’s acquisition of Manus, announced in early 2026, marked a dramatic shift, with the U.S. tech giant vowing to sever ties with Manus’s Chinese investors and shut down its operations in China. This move did not go unnoticed. In Beijing, the situation has been met with strong opposition. Chinese officials have long viewed the exodus of AI startups to foreign markets as a betrayal of national interests, using the phrase “selling young crops” to describe companies that leave before reaching maturity, taking their intellectual property and talent with them. The Chinese government has historically taken a hard line against such actions, as seen in the case of Jack Ma’s Ant Group, whose 2020 IPO was abruptly halted after regulatory scrutiny, leading to a $2.8 billion fine and the dismantling of China’s tech sector.#us #china #meta #manus #national_development_and_reform_commission

Iran Runs 'De Facto Toll Booth' in Strait of Hormuz, Works on Bill for Ship Fees Iran's parliament is advancing a plan to formalize its control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway in the Persian Gulf, while also establishing a revenue stream through fees charged to ships passing through the strait. Local media, citing lawmakers affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guard, reported that the legislative body is drafting legislation to codify Iran's sovereignty and oversight over the region. Lawmaker Mohammadreza Rezaei Kouchi stated that the move is "entirely natural," comparing it to transit fees paid by goods moving through other corridors. He emphasized that Iran provides security for the strait and that ships and oil tankers should compensate for this service. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage connecting the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, is traditionally considered an international waterway open to all vessels. However, Iran has been effectively operating as a "de facto toll booth," imposing fees on some ships and controlling which vessels are allowed to transit. A report by Lloyd's List Intelligence detailed Iran's practices, noting that ships must submit manifests, crew details, and destination information to the Revolutionary Guard's "Hormozgan Provincial Command." This process includes sanctions screening, cargo checks prioritizing oil, and geopolitical vetting. While not all ships pay directly, at least two vessels have settled fees in yuan, China's currency, according to the report. Such measures could conflict with U.S. and European sanctions targeting the Revolutionary Guard, a key Iranian military force with control over ballistic missiles and a role in suppressing domestic protests.#iran #israel #china #strait_of_hormuz #revolutionary_guard

Qualcomm (QCOM) Stock: Shareholders Dismiss China Concerns While Board Greenlights $20B Repurchase Qualcomm’s 2026 annual stockholders’ meeting drew significant attention as investors rejected a proposal focused on assessing operational risks tied to China. The measure, part of a seven-item agenda presented on March 17, failed to gain approval despite the company’s heavy reliance on Chinese smartphone manufacturers. While specific voting figures were not disclosed, SEC filings confirmed the measure’s defeat. The China-related vote, though one of seven items under consideration, sparked the most interest from market observers due to its implications for Qualcomm’s global operations. Analysts have also weighed in on Qualcomm’s stock, with Seaport Research Partners downgrading the company earlier this week. The firm cited shrinking market conditions and rising costs for memory components as key factors behind the rating adjustment. This move added to the cautious sentiment surrounding the stock, as technical indicators show the Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 35.12, nearing oversold levels. Qualcomm’s price-to-sales ratio hovers near its two-year low at 3.22, while its price-to-earnings ratio stands at 27.12, significantly below its historical peak of 49.87. Wall Street remains divided on the stock, with an average price target of $161.77 and a moderate recommendation score of 2.6, placing it between bullish and neutral territory. Institutional holdings remain elevated at 76.6%, indicating that major investors continue to maintain substantial positions in the company. To bolster shareholder returns, Qualcomm’s board approved a $20 billion share repurchase program alongside an enhanced dividend.#china #wall_street #qualcomm #seaport_research_partners #share_repurchase