The Latest Breaking News from Beijing

Alibaba's $2 billion gaming exit signals where Beijing wants its money

The e-commerce giant sells its gaming studio and pours $53 billion into AI as the US-China tech rivalry heats up

Fortune · Aug 18

At Beijing AI-themed bar, DeepSeek tokens come with the pints

As AI enthusiasm sweeps across China, Song De opened AGI Bar, named after the concept of artificial general intelligence where AI systems surpass human intelligence, last year in Zhongguancun, the capital's high-tech neighbourhood in Haidian district. It is now a hub for Beijing's AI developers, investors and students.

The Economic Times · Aug 18

Clamping down: China tightens exit rules

The Chinese government announced new border regulations in late July in a move seen as expanding state control over its citizens. The new rules, which come into effect on September 15, tighten checks on travellers and provide new grounds for restricting Chinese citizens from leaving the country, including exit bans…

France 24 · Aug 18

A cheap American sandwich conquered the world. Now China is rewriting the burger's 100-year-old story

Burgers are experiencing a surge in popularity across China's fast-food market. Global chains and local operators are now fiercely competing for market share. Consumers seek convenient and affordable meal options amid economic shifts. Pizza Hut's burger counters are expanding rapidly, showing strong growth potential. This trend reflects a broader change…

The Economic Times · Aug 17

Larger part for yuan in trade

Beijing is stepping up efforts to widen the role of the yuan in international trade, allowing its domestic commercial banks to expand direct settlement arrangements with a growing number of foreign currencies, including the baht, aiming to reduce usage of the US dollar as an intermediary in cross-border trade.

Bangkok Post · Aug 16

Manchester-Bound Plane Forced to Land in Russia After Mid-Air Fault as Passengers Face Long Detour Home

A Hainan Airlines flight from Beijing to Manchester diverted to Siberia due to a mechanical fault, leaving passengers stranded.

International Business Times UK · Aug 16

China launches 24th batch of low-orbit internet satellites from Hainan site

The launch took place from the southern island province of Hainan, which has become an important location for China's commercial space activities. The latest mission is part of China's ongoing effort to build large networks of low-orbit satellites that can provide internet connectivity from space. The rocket lifted off at…

The Times of India · Aug 16

Donald Trump, Elon Musk Feud Explained: How $100 Million Beijing Summit Healed 'Big Time Drug Addict' Rift

Donald Trump and Elon Musk have reconciled after Musk pledged $100 million (£74.2 million) to support Republicans, ending their feud. The reunion, sealed at a Beijing summit, focuses on mutual political survival.

International Business Times UK · Aug 15

"Warm congratulations to India": Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong attends Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort

On India's 80th Independence Day, China's Ambassador Xu Feihong offered heartfelt congratulations, showcasing international camaraderie. Despite the rainy weather, the Indian Embassy in Beijing conducted a dignified ceremony. In Shanghai, Consul General Pratik Mathur celebrated with an enthusiastic crowd, undeterred by typhoon conditions. These gestures highlighted India's rising significance on…

The Economic Times · Aug 15

US to tell partners they must pick sides in AI race with China

The US is preparing to ask countries to choose between its Pax Silica AI framework and China’s competing initiative, Reuters reported. Washington wants participating nations to align on AI, semiconductors and critical-mineral supply chains amid intensifying technology competition with Beijing.

The Economic Times · Aug 15