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Politics & Society Weekly

Big moves and their implications

The year began with a bang on the other side of the world—that is the US invasion of Venezuela and the kidnapping of its president who is now to be tried in New York on drug trafficking charges. And while this has nothing apparently directly to do with China, in fact there are several elements […]

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Brief Consumer Politics & Society

Ikea to close seven China stores 

Ikea will close seven of its 41 stores in mainland China, reports the South China Morning Post. This comes as the furniture retailer grapples with the country’s weak property market and low consumer spending, which have dampened demand for its goods. Following a comprehensive review, Ikea China said the seven stores would cease operations from February 2. These are located in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Tianjin, […]

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Brief Law & Regulation Politics & Society Tech, Media & Telecom

Beijing asks Chinese firms to halt Nvidia chip orders

Beijing has asked some Chinese tech companies to halt orders for Nvidia’s H200 chips this week, reports Reuters, citing people familiar with the matter. The leadership is expected to mandate domestic artificial intelligence chip purchases. China’s directive to suspend orders was issued as the government considers whether, and under what conditions, to allow access to Nvidia’s […]

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Brief Economics & Trade Law & Regulation Politics & Society

China bans dual-use items export to Japan

China has banned exports to Japan of dual-use items that can serve military purposes, reports Caixin. The move comes amid already tense relations between the two countries following the Japanese prime minister’s recent remarks on Taiwan. Exports of such items to Japanese military users and all other end-users that could help strengthen Japanese military power are […]

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Brief Politics & Society Travel & Leisure

South Korea replaces Japan as China’s top outbound travel destination

South Korea has overtaken Japan as the leading destination for outbound flights from the Chinese mainland, reports Caixin. This marks a significant shift in regional tourism trends shaped by political tensions and government advisories. Between December 29 and January 4, South Korea ranked first among outbound destinations with 1,012 flights departing from the Chinese mainland, followed […]