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The CSIS warns of potential election interference by China and India using AI tactics amid deteriorating Canadian ties with both nations, exasperating geopolitical tensions.

Canada Election Interference Threat by China and India

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service alerts of election interference risks by China and India, stressing the use of AI and social media tactics amidst heightened geopolitical tensions.

CSIS warns of election interference by China and India

CSIS warns China and India might interfere in Canada's election, particularly using AI. Tensions with both nations are escalating, implicating broader geopolitical strategies.

In a press briefing held on Monday, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) warned that China and India could potentially interfere in Canada's upcoming general election. The announcement comes as relations between Canada and these two nations continue to deteriorate.
Vanessa Lloyd, the Deputy Director of Operations at CSIS, addressed reporters regarding the snap election scheduled for April 28, recently called by Canada's new Prime Minister, Mark Carney. She highlighted concerns about "hostile state actors" employing artificial intelligence to meddle in the electoral process.
"The People's Republic of China (PRC) is expected to leverage AI technology to disrupt Canada's democratic proceedings during this election," said Lloyd.
Furthermore, she indicated that China might utilize social media platforms to push narratives favorable to Beijing's interests, specifically targeting Chinese ethnic, cultural, and religious communities within Canada through "clandestine and deceptive strategies."
Additionally, Lloyd stated that evidence suggests India has both the intent and capacity to interfere in Canadian communities and its democratic practices as part of its broader geopolitical strategy.
Both China and India have previously denied such interference allegations and have yet to respond to these new claims. In the past, India dismissed Canadian suggestions of election-related interference by foreign governments, labeling them as "insinuations."
In January, Canada's commission report suggested that New Delhi might have used proxy agents to clandestinely fund candidates from multiple political parties during a federal election.
India's Ministry of External Affairs rejected these claims and criticized Canada for meddling in its domestic affairs.
The Globe and Mail, a prominent Canadian newspaper, had reported allegations that India provided covert financial backing to politicians in Canada.
The CSIS briefing also touched on potential interference by Russia and Pakistan.
Lloyd indicated that Russia has been building networks on social media and news websites to propagate Kremlin-aligned narratives, which might be used to influence the Canadian electorate. Similarly, she voiced concerns that Pakistan could engage in interference activities to further its strategic goals, including promoting stability and countering India's global influence.
Strained Canada-India relations
Relations between Canada and India have been fraught, particularly since former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused New Delhi of involvement in the murder of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in September 2023.
India swiftly dismissed the claim as "absurd." Tensions escalated with the expulsion of Canadian diplomats and the recall of India's envoy following Canada&rsquo;s move to question Indian officials as persons of interest in the Nijjar case.
Canada-China relations have also soured, highlighted by China's recent imposition of tariffs on over $2.6 billion worth of Canadian agricultural products.
This move came in retaliation to earlier Canadian tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and metal products.
With the election on the horizon, CSIS's warnings underscore the complex geopolitical challenges facing Canada and emphasize the need for vigilance in safeguarding its democratic processes.

India imposes up to $986 per tonne anti-dumping duty on Trichloroisocyanuric Acid imports from China and Japan, to protect local industries for up to five years.

India Imposes Duty on Acid Imports from China, Japan

India enforces a duty up to $986/tonne on Trichloroisocyanuric Acid imports from China and Japan to safeguard its domestic industry for five years, under WTO norms.

India imposes anti-dumping duty on Trichloroisocyanuric Acid imports

India imposes up to $986/tonne duty on Trichloroisocyanuric Acid from China, Japan to protect local industry. Valid for five years.

India has imposed anti-dumping duty of up to USD 986 per tonne for five years on a chemical, used for water treatment, imported from China and Japan to protect the domestic industry from cheap inbound shipments, according to a finance ministry notification.
The decision follows recommendations from the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), an investigation arm of the commerce ministry, to impose the duty on &lsquo;Trichloro isocyanuric acid&rsquo;.
In its recommendations, the directorate has stated that the domestic industry has suffered material injury due to the dumped imports in India from China and Japan.
&ldquo;The anti-dumping duty imposed&hellip;shall be levied for a period of five years (unless revoked, superseded or amended earlier),&rdquo; the notification said.
Both the countries are key trading partners of India.
While DGTR conducts the alleged dumping probe and recommends the duty, the finance ministry takes the final decision to impose the same within three months of the recommendation.
Countries initiate anti-dumping probes to check if their domestic industries have been hurt because of a surge in below-cost imports. As a countermeasure, they impose duties within the multilateral regime of the WTO (World Trade Organisation).
Anti-dumping measures are taken to ensure fair trade and provide a level-playing field to the domestic industry. It is not a measure to restrict imports or cause an unjustified increase in the cost of products.

Global security concerns prompt several countries to limit DeepSeek's use, which China criticizes as geopolitical. India restricts AI tools in government over confidentiality fears. DeepSeek, affordable at USD 6 million, becomes the top app on Apple'

Countries Limit DeepSeek AI Use Amid Security Concerns

Global security concerns prompt several countries to limit DeepSeek's use, which China criticizes as geopolitical. India restricts AI tools in government over confidentiality fears. DeepSeek, affordable at USD 6 million, becomes the top app on Apple's Appstore.

Global concerns over DeepSeek: nations restrict use citing security risks

Global security concerns prompt several countries to limit DeepSeek's use, which China criticizes as geopolitical. India restricts AI tools in government over confidentiality fears. DeepSeek, affordable at USD 6 million, becomes the top app on Apple's Appstore

In a growing wave of caution, several nations, including India, have placed restrictions on the usage of China's new AI tool, DeepSeek, citing security concerns. In response, China has criticized these moves as geopolitical maneuvers and pledged to defend its companies' rights.
During a recent media briefing, Guo Jiakun, the spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, highlighted China's opposition to what it views as an undue expansion of national security concepts to influence trade and technology matters. Guo refuted allegations related to China's 2017 national intelligence law, emphasizing that Beijing does not compel companies to collect or mishandle data. "We have never asked and will never ask any company or individual to collect or store data against laws," he asserted.
Among the countries implementing restrictions, India has taken a notable stance. The Indian Finance Ministry has instructed its officials to refrain from using AI-related tools such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek on official devices, pointing to data confidentiality risks. A directive issued on January 29 underscored the ministry's concerns regarding the potential exposure of sensitive government information through these tools.
Globally, governments such as those of South Korea, Italy, Australia, the US, and Japan have similarly limited access to DeepSeek, wary of its implications.
DeepSeek has garnered significant attention internationally due to its low-cost model, priced at just USD 6 million, starkly contrasting with the billion-dollar budgets typical in the AI field. The R1 model of DeepSeek utilizes substantially less computing power compared to established AI models like ChatGPT, marking a paradigm shift.
Notably, DeepSeek has eclipsed ChatGPT to become the most downloaded free app on Apple's Appstore, leaving the US tech industry, known for its heavy investment in AI, in surprise.
As this situation develops, the trade and tech landscape continues to be shaped by national policies and geopolitical tensions surrounding emerging technologies.

US President Donald Trump has postponed tariffs on Mexico and Canada for a month after last-minute border security deals but continues to target China with additional levies.

Donald Trump halts Canada and Mexico tariffs, China still targeted

US President Donald Trump has postponed tariffs on Mexico and Canada for a month after last-minute border security deals but continues to target China with additional levies.

US President Donald Trump delayed the start of tariffs on neighbors Mexico and Canada for a month Monday -- but China remained in the firing line for levies that are putting the global economy on edge.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau both struck last-minute deals with Trump to tighten border measures against the flow of migrants and the drug fentanyl into the United States.
Global stock markets had slumped as Trump's threat of sweeping 25 percent levies on exports from Canada and Mexico to the United States sparked fears of a global trade war.
Trump said that after "very friendly" talks with Sheinbaum he would "immediately pause" the tariffs on Mexico, and that his counterpart had agreed to send 10,000 troops to the US-Mexico frontier.
Tensions appeared higher between the United States and Canada -- but after two calls with Trudeau, Trump said on Truth Social that Canada had "agreed to ensure we have a secure Northern Border, and to finally end the deadly scourge of drugs like Fentanyl."
Trudeau said Canada would deploy nearly 10,000 frontline officers to help secure the border, list drug cartels as terrorists, appoint a "Fentanyl Czar" and crack down on money laundering.
It was not clear the real extent of the changes on the Canadian border, given that authorities said in December they already had 8,500 personnel deployed.
 - Stocks slump -
But China is still due to face a further 10 percent duty on top of existing levies.
The US president said last-minute talks between Washington and Beijing were due in a bid to reach an agreement.
His spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told Fox News "there is a plan for him to talk to President Xi in the next 24 hours."
Canada, China and Mexico are the United States's three biggest trading partners.
Wall Street's three main indices fell sharply in early deals, but clawed back ground after Trump's announcement of the Mexico deal. The London, Paris and Frankfurt stock markets finished in the red.
The White House said earlier there had been a "heck of a lot of talks" over the weekend.
"This is not a trade war, this is a drug war," National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett told CNBC, complaining that "the Canadians appeared to have misunderstood the plain language."
However, US government figures show that only a minimal quantity of drugs enter via Canada.
 - 51st state? -
Canada had vowed to respond strongly to the tariffs.
Canadians have booed the US national anthem at sporting events, cancelled holidays in the United States and boycotted American products.
Its most populous province Ontario on Monday had banned US firms from bidding on tens of billions of dollars in government contracts -- and dumped a deal with Trump ally Elon Musk's Starlink.
Trump has upped the pressure recently by calling Canada's existence into question -- once again advocating on Monday for it to become the 51st US state.
A political crisis in the Canadian government over Trump's tariff threats led to Trudeau announcing earlier this month that he would resign too. Canadians now face elections as early as April.
Mexico has meanwhile been under heavy pressure to secure its border with the United States as Trump vows a massive crackdown on undocumented migrants.
The US president -- who has said that the word "tariff" is the "most beautiful word in the dictionary" -- is going even further in his second term on the levies than he did in his first.
He has insisted that the impact would be borne by foreign exporters without being passed on to American consumers, despite most experts saying the contrary.
But the billionaire 78-year-old did acknowledge as he returned from a weekend at his Florida resort Sunday that Americans might feel economic "pain."

India's electronics, solar, and EV sectors are disrupted by China's export restrictions amid rising geopolitical tensions. The GTRI suggests India diversify its supply sources, notably with Japan and South Korea, to mitigate reliance on Chinese impor

India faces delays in electronics, solar, and EV sectors due to China curbs

China's export restrictions disrupt India's electronics, solar, and EV industries amid increasing geopolitical tensions. GTRI advises local manufacturing enhancement and partnerships with Japan and South Korea to counteract dependency on Chinese components.

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China's export restrictions on critical inputs are causing delays in India's electronics, solar, and EV sectors. The curbs, likely a response to India's policies, highlight deeper geopolitical tensions and urge India to diversify supply chains.
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Indian businesses in the electronics, solar, and electric vehicle (EV) sectors are facing disruptions and delays due to China&rsquo;s restrictions on the export of key inputs and machinery, according to the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI). These restrictions are believed to be in response to India's actions on Chinese investments and visas, signaling growing geopolitical tensions and a trade conflict.
Ajay Srivastava, the Founder of GTRI, noted that while these measures harm India&rsquo;s industries, they are also detrimental to China&rsquo;s manufacturing and exports. Indian firms are particularly vulnerable due to their heavy reliance on Chinese machinery and components. The think tank emphasized that India needs to strengthen its local manufacturing capabilities and diversify its supply chains to reduce dependence on China.
In 2023-24, India's imports from China rose to USD 101.73 billion, up from USD 98.5 billion the previous year. To mitigate these impacts, Srivastava recommended that India seek stronger partnerships with Japan and South Korea for high-quality components to sustain its electronics, solar, and EV sectors.
China's broader strategy of imposing export curbs is seen as retaliation against U.S. sanctions on Chinese tech companies. In recent months, China has placed restrictions on essential materials like gallium, germanium, and lithium, crucial for solar panel production, semiconductors, and electric vehicle batteries. These moves highlight China's ongoing significance in global supply chains despite the U.S.'s efforts to reduce dependence on Chinese goods.

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck Tibet’s remote Tingri county, killing at least 126 people. Rescuers face freezing conditions and collapsed infrastructure while searching for survivors.

126 dead as powerful earthquake hits Tibet, rescue efforts underway

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck Tibet&rsquo;s remote Tingri county, killing at least 126 people. Rescuers face freezing conditions and collapsed infrastructure while searching for survivors.

Thousands of rescuers were searching for survivors in freezing conditions Wednesday after a devastating earthquake in Tibet region killed at least 126 people.
Videos published by state broadcaster CCTV on Wednesday showed rescue workers pulling injured victims from the rubble of collapsed buildings and carrying them to safety.
Footage also showed a man in a dusty, thick winter coat carrying a crying child piggyback as a rescue worker draped a jacket over him.
Rescues were also seen setting up makeshift tents and examining the injured inside.
At least 126 people have been confirmed dead and 188 others injured in the Tuesday morning quake that struck rural, high-altitude Tingri county, about 80 kilometres (50 miles) north of Mount Everest near Tibet's border with Nepal.
Local officials said at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon that there had been no increases in the number of people killed or injured since the last update on Tuesday night.
More than 3,600 houses had collapsed due to the earthquake and 187 relocation sites have been set up, accommodating 46,500 people, said Hong Li, director of Tibet's Emergency Management Department.
The affected region is a "high-altitude, cold plateau area with weak infrastructure such as transportation, communication, and electricity", Hong said.
"The climate is cold, with large temperature differences between day and night, and low nighttime temperatures, making it difficult to maintain warmth and protect against the cold," Hong said, adding that search and rescue efforts have transitioned to the resettlement of affected residents and post-disaster reconstruction.
The temperature in Tingri will drop to as low as minus 16 degrees Celsius (3.2 Fahrenheit) Thursday morning, according to the China Meteorological Administration. The county sits at an average altitude of 4,500 metres above sea level.
Authorities earlier said more than 12,000 people, including firefighters, soldiers, police officers and professional rescuers, had been deployed, Xinhua reported.
Aid including tents, quilts and cold-weather equipment had been dispatched by central authorities, it added.
When tourist Meng Lingkang arrived in the town of Lhatse, 65 kilometres from the epicentre, he saw "the buildings had cracked open".
"Some of the older houses collapsed, and a large part of the buildings made from bricks had cracked open, with big fissures," the 23-year-old told AFP.
"There were quite a few (rescue vehicles). One after the other they arrived," he added.
&nbsp;
- 'Profoundly saddened' -
The China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) measured the quake's magnitude as 6.8, while the US Geological Survey reported it as 7.1.
The area most affected is surrounded by mountainous terrain on the Chinese side of Everest.
Tingri, the epicentre, is home to around 62,000 people and much less developed than urban centres like Tibet's capital Lhasa.
Many of the fallen houses appeared constructed of traditional materials such as stone, mud bricks and wooden beams.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for "all-out search and rescue efforts", CCTV said.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he was "profoundly saddened" by the lives lost in the earthquake.
"The United Nations is closely monitoring the situation and stands ready to provide support if requested," Guterres said in a statement.
French President Emmanuel Macron offered assistance to those affected, while Russian President Vladimir Putin and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed their condolences.
Tingri is under the administration of the prefecture-level city of Shigatse, home to the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, one of the most important spiritual figures in Tibetan Buddhism after the Dalai Lama.
The Dalai Lama said he was "deeply saddened".
"I offer my prayers for those who have lost their lives and extend my wishes for a swift recovery to all who have been injured," the exiled spiritual leader said in a statement.
AFP is unable to report from Tibet due to restrictions on foreign media.
Beijing imposes strict control on access to the Himalayan region, which it considers an inalienable part of its territory.
China took control of Tibet in 1951 before the Dalai Lama fled into exile in 1959.
Tibet had previously been largely autonomous, following the fall of the Qing dynasty which lasted three centuries.
&nbsp;
- Most powerful -
In addition to capital Kathmandu, areas around Nepal's Lobuche -- in the high mountains near Everest -- were also rattled by the tremor and aftershocks on Tuesday.
No injuries or deaths have been reported so far in the country or in India, where tremors were felt in Bihar state.
Tuesday's quake was the most powerful recorded within a 200-kilometre radius in the last five years, the CENC said.
A quake in December 2023 in northwest China killed 148 people and displaced thousands in Gansu province.

China plans to construct the world's largest dam on the Brahmaputra River, near the Indian border, raising concerns over ecological impact and downstream water rights.

China says its world's biggest dam over Brahmaputra will not impact water flows to India

China plans to construct the world's largest dam on the Brahmaputra River, near the Indian border, raising concerns over ecological impact and downstream water rights.

China on Monday reiterated its plan to build the world's biggest dam over the Brahmaputra River in Tibet near the Indian border, saying the planned project has gone through rigorous scientific verification and will not have any negative impact on downstream countries -- India and Bangladesh.&nbsp;
The project, estimated to cost around USD 137 billion, is located in the ecologically fragile Himalayan region along a tectonic plate boundary where earthquakes occur frequently.
China's construction of the hydropower project over in the Yarlung Tsangpo River (the Tibetan name for Brahmaputra River) downstream has gone through rigorous scientific verification and will not have any negative impact on the ecological environment, geology and water resources of the downstream countries, Chinese Foreign Ministry's new spokesman Guo Jiakun told a media briefing here.
On the contrary, it will be conducive to downstream disaster prevention and mitigation and response to climate change to a certain extent, he said, replying to a question that India has expressed its concerns over the dam and the issue figured in the Indian officials talks with the visiting and US National Security Advisor Sullivan.
Sullivan, currently visiting Delhi, held talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday broadly reviewing the trajectory of the India-US global strategic partnership in the last four years under the Biden administration.
Sullivan is on a visit to India two weeks ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration as the 47th president of the US.
Last month, China approved plans to build a dam over the Brahmaputra River called Yarlung Zangbo in Tibet close to the Indian border.
As per the plan, the massive dam will be built at a huge gorge in the Himalayan reaches where the Brahmaputra makes a huge U-turn to flow into Arunachal Pradesh and then to Bangladesh.
In its first reaction to the proposed dam on Jan 3, India urged China to ensure that the interests of downstream states of the Brahmaputra are not harmed by activities in upstream areas.
"We will continue to monitor and take necessary measures to protect our interests," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told media in Delhi.
"As a lower riparian state with established user rights to the waters of the river, we have consistently expressed, through expert-level as well as diplomatic channels, our views and concerns to the Chinese side over mega projects on rivers in their territory," Jaiswal said.
"These have been reiterated, along with the need for transparency and consultation with downstream countries, following the latest report," he said.
"The Chinese side has been urged to ensure that the interests of downstream states of the Brahmaputra are not harmed by activities in upstream areas," he added.
On Dec 27, another Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, defended China&rsquo;s plan to build the world's largest dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, saying the project will not negatively affect lower riparian states and that safety issues have been addressed through decades of studies.
"The project will not negatively affect the lower reaches," she said, referring to the concerns in India and Bangladesh, which are the lower riparian states.
China will continue to maintain communication with countries at the lower reaches through existing channels and step up cooperation on disaster prevention and relief for the benefit of the people by the river," she said.
She said China's hydropower development in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River aims to speed up the development of clean energy and respond to climate change and extreme hydrological disasters.

India raises concerns with China over the establishment of new counties in Ladakh and a hydropower project on the Brahmaputra River, asserting its sovereignty and urging transparency and consultation with downstream countries.

India protests China’s new counties including parts of India

India raises concerns with China over the establishment of new counties in Ladakh and a hydropower project on the Brahmaputra River, asserting its sovereignty and urging transparency and consultation with downstream countries.

India has raised concerns with China through diplomatic channels regarding the establishment of two new counties by China in regions that fall within India's Union Territory of Ladakh, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed today.
On December 27, Chinese state media Xinhua reported that the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China had announced the creation of He'an County and Hekang County, which will be managed by Hotan Prefecture. These new administrative divisions were approved by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On China's two new counties in Hotan prefecture, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, " We have seen the announcement pertaining to the establishment of two new counties in Hotan Prefecture of China. Parts of the jurisdiction of these so-called counties fall in&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/Fgjseevk2O">pic.twitter.com/Fgjseevk2O</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1875142832610271264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Responding to the development, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal asserted that parts of these newly created counties are situated within Indian territory in Ladakh, which India has consistently maintained sovereignty over. "India has never accepted the illegal Chinese occupation of Indian territory in this area," Jaiswal stated.
He further emphasized that the formation of these counties would not alter India's stance on its sovereignty or legitimize China's illegal occupation of the region. India has formally protested to China through diplomatic channels in this regard.
The two counties, He'an and Hekang, have their county seats in Hongliu Township and Xeyidula Township, respectively, as reported by Chinese state media.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On China's dam project, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "We have seen the information released by Xinhua on 25 December 2024 regarding a hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. As a lower riparian state with&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/LuQKPQVDNM">pic.twitter.com/LuQKPQVDNM</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1875140582152270031?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
In another matter, the MEA also expressed concerns over China's ongoing construction of a hydropower project on the Brahmaputra River, known as the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet. In response to a December 25 Xinhua report on the project, Jaiswal reaffirmed India's position as a lower riparian state with established rights to the river's waters. India has consistently raised concerns about the potential impact of large-scale projects on shared rivers through diplomatic and expert channels.
India has called for greater transparency from China and for consultation with downstream countries, highlighting the need to ensure that the interests of nations like India, which rely on the river, are not negatively affected by upstream activities. "We will continue to monitor the situation closely and take necessary measures to protect our interests," Jaiswal concluded.

China is addressing a surge in respiratory illnesses, including human metapneumovirus (HMPV), influenza A, and other pathogens. 

China Faces Surge in Respiratory Illnesses, Including HMPV

Social media posts have drawn attention to the strain on healthcare facilities, particularly pediatric hospitals, which are struggling with rising pneumonia cases and reports of "white lung" syndrome.

China is currently dealing with a surge in respiratory illnesses, including the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), raising concerns similar to those during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Social media posts and reports suggest overwhelmed hospitals and crematories as multiple viruses&mdash;including HMPV, Influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19&mdash;circulate widely.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
⚠️ BREAKING: Hospitals in China 🇨🇳 Overwhelmed as Severe "Flu" Outbreak, Including Influenza A and HMPV, Resembling 2020 COVID Surge. Hospitals in China are overwhelmed as outbreaks of "influenza A" and "human metapneumovirus" resemble the COVID-19 surge from three years ago. <a href="https://t.co/mPF6XGjQCY">pic.twitter.com/mPF6XGjQCY</a>
&mdash; SARS‑CoV‑2 (COVID-19) (@COVID19_disease) <a href="https://twitter.com/COVID19_disease/status/1873035805104718184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
While there are unverified claims of a national emergency, Reuters reported that China&rsquo;s disease control authority has launched a pilot monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin. This initiative aims to better prepare for potential outbreaks and contrasts with the initial unpreparedness during the emergence of Covid-19 five years ago.
&nbsp;
Official Response
The National Disease Control and Prevention Administration is working to establish a procedure for laboratories to report and verify cases of unknown respiratory illnesses. According to state broadcaster CCTV, these measures will help authorities create standardized protocols to manage new pathogens.
Between December 16 and 22, data showed an increase in respiratory infections, particularly in northern provinces, with a notable rise in cases of HMPV among children under 14. Kan Biao, an official with the disease control authority, mentioned that while respiratory infections are expected to rise in winter, the overall numbers could be smaller than last year.
&nbsp;
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)
HMPV is a respiratory virus that affects vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Symptoms range from mild cold-like conditions&mdash;cough, fever, and nasal congestion&mdash;to severe respiratory complications like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, much like Covid-19. However, there is no vaccine for HMPV, and experts warn against indiscriminate use of antiviral drugs. A respiratory expert in Shanghai highlighted the importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
 Public Concerns and Warnings
Social media posts have drawn attention to the strain on healthcare facilities, particularly pediatric hospitals, which are struggling with rising pneumonia cases and reports of "white lung" syndrome. A post shared by the X handle "SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19)" claimed that multiple respiratory illnesses are overwhelming hospitals and crematories.
Meanwhile, Reuters reported that China&rsquo;s enhanced monitoring system aims to address gaps in its previous response to unknown pathogens. Officials stress the importance of public awareness and cooperation in managing the current outbreak. 
Outlook
With respiratory infections expected to increase during winter and spring, Chinese health authorities are focusing on early detection, enhanced preparedness, and effective treatment protocols. The ongoing surge underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate the impact of these illnesses.

China announces plans for the world's largest hydropower dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, raising environmental and strategic concerns while promising significant energy and economic benefits.

China Approves $137 Billion Brahmaputra Hydropower Project

China has already Operationalised the USD 1.5 billion Zam Hydropower Station, the largest in Tibet in 2015.

China has approved the construction of the world's largest dam, stated to be the planet's biggest infra project costing USD 137 billion, on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet close to the Indian border, raising concerns in riparian states - India and Bangladesh.
The Chinese government has approved the construction of a hydropower project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River, the Tibetan name for the Brahmaputra, according to an official statement quoted by state-run Xinhua news agency on Wednesday.
The dam is to be built at a huge gorge in the Himalayan reaches where the Brahmaputra river makes a huge U-turn to flow into Arunachal Pradesh and then to Bangladesh.
The total investment in the dam could exceed one trillion yuan (USD 137 billion), which would dwarf any other single infrastructure project on the planet including China&rsquo;s own Three Gorges Dam, regarded as the largest in the world, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported on Thursday.
China has already Operationalised the USD 1.5 billion Zam Hydropower Station, the largest in Tibet in 2015.
The Brahmaputra dam was part of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) and National Economic and Social Development and the Long-Range Objectives Through the Year 2035 adopted by Plenum, a key policy body of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) in 2020.
Concerns arose in India as the dam besides empowering China to control the water flow, the size and scale of it could also enable Beijing to release large amounts of water flooding border areas in times of hostilities.
India too is building a dam over Brahmaputra in Arunachal Pradesh.
India and China established the Expert Level Mechanism (ELM) in 2006 to discuss various issues related to trans-border rivers under which China provides India with hydrological information on the Brahmaputra river and Sutlej river during the flood seasons.
Data sharing of trans-border rivers figured in the talks between India, China Special Representatives (SRs) for border question, NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, held here on December 18.
The SRs &ldquo;provided positive directions for cross-border cooperation and exchanges" including data sharing on trans-border rivers, a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said.
The Brahmaputra Dam presents enormous engineering challenges as the project site is located along a tectonic plate boundary where earthquakes occur.
The Tibetan plateau, regarded as the roof of the world, frequently experiences earthquakes as it is located over the tectonic plates.
The official statement on Wednesday sought to allay concerns about earthquakes, saying that the hydropower project is safe and prioritises ecological protection.
Through extensive geological explorations and technical advancements, a solid foundation has been laid for the science-based, secure, and high-quality development of the project, it said.
The Brahmaputra flows across the Tibetan Plateau, carving out the deepest canyon on Earth and covering a staggering vertical difference of 25,154 feet before reaching India, the Post report said.
The dam will be built in one of the rainiest parts of mainland China bringing bountiful flows of water.
According to a 2023 report, the hydropower station is expected to generate more than 300 billion kWh of electricity each year &ndash; enough to meet the annual needs of over 300 million people.
In 2020, Yan Zhiyong, then chairman of the state-owned Power Construction Corporation of China, was quoted in the media as saying the location on the Yarlung Tsangpo was one of the most hydropower-rich areas in the world.
&ldquo;The lower reaches area features a vertical drop of 2,000 metres over a 50km distance, representing nearly 70 million kilowatts of resources that could be developed &ndash; that is more than three Three Gorges Dams with an installed capacity of 22.5 million kilowatts,&rdquo; the Post quoted him as saying.
To harness the hydropower potential of the river, four to six 20km-long tunnels must be drilled through the Namcha Barwa mountain to divert half of the river&rsquo;s flow at about 2,000 cubic metres per second, according to the report.
Yan said that the hydropower exploitation of the Yarlung Zangbo River downstream is more than a hydropower project.
It is also meaningful for the environment, national security, living standards, energy and international cooperation.
"It is a project for national security, including water resources and domestic security," he said, noting that the project will also smooth cooperation with South Asia.
The hydropower station could generate income of 20 billion yuan (USD three billion) annually for the Tibet Autonomous Region, he said.
An official statement on Wednesday defended the project, saying it will play a positive role in accelerating the country's efforts to create a new development pattern and pursue high-quality development.
It is also of great importance to advancing the country's strategy for carbon peaking and carbon neutrality and to coping with global climate change, it said.
The hydropower project is a green project aimed at promoting low-carbon development. By harnessing the abundant hydropower resources of the Yarlung Zangbo River, the project will also spur the development of solar and wind energy resources in surrounding areas, thus creating a clean energy base featuring a complementary mix of hydro, wind and solar power, it said.
It will directly stimulate the rapid growth of such industries as engineering, logistics and trade services, and create new jobs, it said.
Once completed, the project will further improve infrastructures of electricity, water conservancy and transportation. It will strengthen the synergy of development between Tibet and other regions, it said.

Pakistan plans to procure 40 J-35A stealth fighter jets from China, marking the first global export of China's advanced military aircraft. The deal could significantly boost Pakistan's air defense capabilities.

Pakistan Seeks J-35A Stealth Jets from China

While Beijing has yet to officially confirm the sale, the acquisition of the J-35A would not only bolster Pakistan&rsquo;s air capabilities but also signify a deepening military alliance with China.

China is reportedly in discussions with Pakistan over the potential sale of 40 advanced J-35A stealth fighter jets, marking a significant development in military cooperation between the two nations.
If the deal goes through, Pakistan would become the first country outside China to operate these cutting-edge multi-role fighter jets, representing Beijing&rsquo;s first export of its most advanced military aircraft.
The J-35A, China's second fifth-generation stealth jet, is designed to rival the United States&rsquo; F-35 series.
&nbsp;
Key Features of the J-35A The J-35A is a twin-engine, single-seat supersonic fighter capable of land and sea missions. Its design is strikingly similar to the U.S. F-35, though it boasts twin engines compared to the F-35's single-engine configuration. With capabilities including stealth operations, counter-stealth combat, and interception of various hostile targets, the J-35A is positioned as a formidable player in modern aerial warfare. Beijing plans to deploy the aircraft across its Air Force and Navy in a manner comparable to the U.S. F-35 variants. 
&nbsp;
Pakistan&rsquo;s Strategic Gain
Pakistan, grappling with an ageing fleet of U.S.-made F-16s and French Mirage fighters, views the acquisition of the J-35A as a critical upgrade to its air defense capabilities. According to reports, Pakistan's Air Force has approved the purchase, with China prepared to deliver all 40 jets within two years. Such an acquisition would provide Islamabad with advanced stealth technology, potentially altering the regional balance of power. 
Financing Challenges Amid Economic Strain Despite Pakistan&rsquo;s severe economic crisis and reliance on IMF and World Bank bailout packages, the country seems determined to proceed with the deal. It remains unclear how Islamabad plans to finance the acquisition, though experts speculate that China may extend another loan, adding to Pakistan&rsquo;s mounting debt. Beijing has previously modernized Pakistan's military across all branches, including the co-development of the JF-17 Thunder fighter and the delivery of advanced naval frigates.
&nbsp;
Regional Implications and Sovereignty Concerns&nbsp; China&rsquo;s growing military and economic influence in Pakistan is underscored by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Reports suggest that Beijing is pressuring Islamabad to permit Chinese security personnel deployment in Pakistan, raising sovereignty concerns. Pakistan has so far resisted this demand, deploying over 30,000 personnel to protect Chinese workers involved in CPEC projects. 
High-Level Talks Strengthen Military Ties
Recent high-level meetings between Chinese and Pakistani military officials, including a visit by General Zhang Youxia, Vice-Chairman of China&rsquo;s Central Military Commission, have focused on deepening bilateral defense cooperation. The discussions coincided with the unveiling of the J-35A, further fueling speculation about the impending deal.
While Beijing has yet to officially confirm the sale, the acquisition of the J-35A would not only bolster Pakistan&rsquo;s air capabilities but also signify a deepening military alliance with China, potentially reshaping South Asia&rsquo;s strategic dynamics.

China has expanded military drills around Taiwan aimed at drawing "a red line" for the next US president, Taipei authorities said on Wednesday, branding Beijing a "troublemaker".

China's Major Military Drills Near Taiwan

China has expanded military drills around Taiwan aimed at drawing "a red line" for the next US president, Taipei authorities said on Wednesday, branding Beijing a "troublemaker".

China has expanded military drills around Taiwan aimed at drawing "a red line" for the next US president, Taipei authorities said on Wednesday, branding Beijing a "troublemaker".
Beijing's biggest maritime drills in years involve about 60 warships and 30 coast guard vessels deployed from near the southern islands of Japan to the South China Sea, a senior national security official told AFP on the condition of anonymity.
China has also ramped up military aircraft activity closer to Taiwan, with 100 sorties detected over the past two days, figures from the island's defence ministry show.
There has been no public announcement by Beijing's army or Chinese state media about increased military activity in the East China Sea, Taiwan Strait, South China Sea or Western Pacific Ocean.
However, a recent Pacific tour by Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te that included two stops in US territory drew fury from Beijing, which claims the democratic island as part of China's territory.
The security official said on Wednesday that China's plans for the massive maritime operation began in October and were aimed at demonstrating that Beijing could choke off Taiwan and also to "draw a red line" ahead of the next US administration.
"China uses President Lai's overseas visit as a pretext, with Taiwan only serving as an excuse," the official said.
"The real objective appears to be asserting control within the first island chain and establishing strategic deterrence ahead of the US presidential transition," the official said, referring to the chain linking Okinawa, Taiwan and the Philippines.
Taiwan's foreign ministry said on Wednesday that China's increased military activity around the island, including its huge maritime drills and frequent aircraft deployments, was evidence that Beijing was a "troublemaker".
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the United States was monitoring China's "latest activity" and would ensure "nobody does anything to change the status quo in the (Taiwan) Strait".
"Again, our policy hasn't changed. We'll continue to do what we can to help Taiwan acquire the means to defend itself," Austin told reporters at a US base in Japan on Wednesday.
&nbsp;
- Simulating attacks, blockade -
Chinese warships have simulated attacking foreign ships during the drills, while the coast guard has practised intercepting commercial vessels as well as disrupting and blockading sea routes, the official said.
China also held "joint operations with Russia" over several days in November, the official said.
Recent bad weather had "posed challenges for smaller vessels" involved in the drills, they said.
Taiwan lives under the constant threat of invasion by China, which has not ruled out using force to bring the island under its control.
China has ramped up the deployment of fighter jets and warships around the island in recent years to press its claim over self-ruled Taiwan.
It also opposes any international recognition of Taiwan and especially bristles at official contact between Taipei and Washington.
Lai spoke with Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, drawing a barrage of criticism from China, in addition to his two recent stopovers on US soil.
Beijing's foreign ministry spokeswoman said on Tuesday that China would "resolutely defend" its sovereignty.
&nbsp;
- 'Significantly larger' -
The security official said the sea drills were "significantly larger" than Beijing's maritime response to then-US House speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taipei in 2022, which was China's largest-ever war games around Taiwan.
China has held four major military exercises in just over two years, including the drills in response to Pelosi's visit and two since Lai took office in May.
Beijing usually announces its military exercises but the official said one reason it may have decided to stay silent was to avoid overshadowing China's annual Central Economic Work Conference.
China's leadership will gather on Wednesday for a closed-door meeting to hammer out plans to boost the economy next year, reports said.
Taipei-based military analyst Shu Hsiao-huang told AFP that Beijing's drills had a "pronounced sense of real combat readiness and operational intent ".
"In the East China Sea, it seems China is preparing for large-scale aerial operations to confront US naval forces," said Shu, from the Institute for National Defense and Security Research.
"Meanwhile, the deployment of significant naval assets east of Taiwan suggests a strategy to blockade the island, cutting off its economic lifelines and essential resources."
The Taiwan defence ministry's daily tally of Chinese aircraft detected around the island was 53 on Wednesday and 47 on Tuesday.
Wednesday's figure was the highest number of aircraft detected in a single day since a record 153 were reported on October 15 after China staged large-scale military drills in response to Lai's National Day speech days earlier.

The United States unveiled trade restrictions Tuesday on eight companies, including two Chinese firms and several from Russia, alleging human rights violations.

US Sanctions Chinese, Russian Firms over Rights Abuses

The United States unveiled trade restrictions Tuesday on eight companies, including two Chinese firms and several from Russia, alleging human rights violations.

The United States unveiled trade restrictions Tuesday on eight companies, including two Chinese firms and several from Russia, alleging human rights violations.
The China-based companies identified include Zhejiang Uniview Technologies, which US officials accuse of enabling human rights violations such as surveillance of Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minority groups.
The other firm named by the US Commerce Department was Beijing Zhongdun Security Technology Group, which is said to develop and sell products allowing public security authorities to carry out rights violations.
The businesses were added to an "entity list," which requires US companies to have a license before exporting to them.
"Human rights abuses are contrary to the foreign policy interests of the United States," said Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security Alan Estevez in a statement.
Adding these companies to the entity list aims to "ensure that US technology is not used to enable human rights violations and abuses," he added.
A man who answered a call to a cellphone number associated with Beijing Zhongdun hung up after an AFP reporter identified himself.
Calls to two numbers associated with Zhejiang Uniview went unanswered.
The US government and lawmakers in several other Western countries have taken aim at China's treatment of the Uyghur minority in the northwestern Xinjiang region.
Rights groups have said at least one million people, mostly members of Muslim minorities, have been incarcerated in the region and face various abuses -- while Beijing vehemently denies the accusations.
Among other firms targeted on Tuesday were two in Myanmar and two others in Russia over their roles in supplying Myanmar's military with components allowing them to carry out acts like aerial attacks against civilians, the Commerce Department said.
Two other Russian entities were included for providing facial recognition technology to Moscow "to target peaceful protesters, an integral component of Russia's mass surveillance apparatus."

China expands space ambitions with Shenzhou-19 launch, astronaut trio docks

China expands space ambitions with Shenzhou-19 launch, astronaut trio docks

The Yunyang On-site Dinosaur Fossil Protected Shelter in southwest China's Chongqing recently opened, unveiling the world's largest Jurassic dinosaur fossil wall. The fossil wall is about 150 meters in length, between 6 and 10 meters in height, and i

World's largest Jurassic dinosaur fossil wall unveiled in China's Chongqing

The Yunyang On-site Dinosaur Fossil Protected Shelter in southwest China's Chongqing recently opened, unveiling the world's largest Jurassic dinosaur fossil wall. The fossil wall is about 150 meters in length, between 6 and 10 meters in height, and in a stepped layout. With an exhibition area of about 1,320 square meters, the wall displays nearly 5,000 pieces of fossils, covering skulls, teeth, vertebrae, limb bones, girdles and other skeletal parts.


The Yunyang On-site Dinosaur Fossil Protected Shelter in southwest China's Chongqing recently opened, unveiling the world's largest Jurassic dinosaur fossil wall.

The Yunyang On-site Dinosaur Fossil Protected Shelter in southwest China's Chongqing recently opened, unveiling the world's largest Jurassic dinosaur fossil wall. The fossil wall is about 150 meters in length, between 6 and 10 meters in height, and in a stepped layout. With an exhibition area of about 1,320 square meters, the wall displays nearly 5,000 pieces of fossils, covering skulls, teeth, vertebrae, limb bones, girdles and other skeletal parts.

Satellite imagery has revealed the incident despite China's attempts to conceal it, and a US defense official noted that the Zhou-class vessel was believed to have been docked next to a pier when it sank.

‘I Mean, Holy Cow!’: China’s Newest State-Of-The-Art Nuclear Submarine Sank In Wuhan Dock

Satellite imagery has revealed the incident despite China's attempts to conceal it, and a US defense official noted that the Zhou-class vessel was believed to have been docked next to a pier when it sank.

China's efforts to achieve maritime military parity with the United States have suffered a setback following the sinking of its newest state-of-the-art nuclear submarine at the Wuchang shipyard in Wuhan around May or June 2023. Satellite imagery has revealed the incident despite China's attempts to conceal it, and a US defense official noted that the Zhou-class vessel was believed to have been docked next to a pier when it sank.

China has over 500 operational nuclear warheads in its arsenal. Reports suggest of these 500 nuclear warheads, 350 are ICBMs.

China's 1st Public  Nuke Test | Intercontinental DF-41 Missile Specs | China Vs USA Nuke Comparison

China has over 500 operational nuclear warheads in its arsenal. Reports suggest of these 500 nuclear warheads, 350 are ICBMs.

China conducts first public test launch of intercontinental missile. China successfully fired a ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean. The report claimed that the intercontinental ballistic missile or ICBM may have been DF-41. The ICBM carried a dummy warhead and &lsquo;fell into expected sea areas&rsquo;. Chinese officials said the test was a &lsquo;routine arrangement in our annual training plan&rsquo;. China has typically conducted such tests in its own airspace, This is extremely unusual and likely the first time in decades that we&rsquo;ve seen a test like this. (The test) likely speaks to China&rsquo;s ongoing nuclear modernisation manifesting in new requirements for testing,&rdquo; Ankit Panda, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace said.
China has over 500 operational nuclear warheads in its arsenal. Reports suggest of these 500 nuclear warheads, 350 are ICBMs. &nbsp;China will probably have over 1,000 warheads by 2030: the Pentagon said. China is constructing hundreds of secret silos for land-based ICBMs US claimed. In comparison, US has 1,770 &amp; Russia has 1,710 operational warheads. Pentagon: by 2030, much of China&rsquo;s nukes will be at higher readiness levels.
Navigational warnings and &nbsp;NOTAMs indicate that China tested DF-41 ICBM. &nbsp;&lsquo;China appears to have launched a 3-stage intercontinental missile.&rsquo; It is estimated that the missile traveled 12,000 km, suggesting DF-41 was tested. DF-41 is a 4th-generation solid-fuelled road-mobile intercontinental missile.
 It is China's latest ICBM, which first came into service in 2017. DF-41 uses 3-stage solid propellant engine and has 12,000 to 15,000 km range.
 Chinese state-run media reported that DF-41 has a high degree of accuracy and can evade defenses. &nbsp;It uses an inertial guidance system, augmented with stellar updates, and navigation.
 The Guidance system enables DF-41 to achieve circular accuracy of 100 meters

China expressed its firm support to Lebanon in safeguarding its sovereignty and security, and strongly condemned violations after Israel's large scale airstrikes.

China firmly supports Lebanon after Israeli airstrikes kill around 500

China expressed its firm support to Lebanon in safeguarding its sovereignty and security, and strongly condemned violations after Israel's large scale airstrikes.

China expressed its firm support to Lebanon in safeguarding its sovereignty and security, and strongly condemned violations after Israel's large scale airstrikes. Beijing made its intentions clear during a meeting between China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Lebanese counterpart Abdallah Bou Habib on 23rd September in New York.

According to Germany's Kiel Institute and Austrian researchers, these tariffs could cut vehicle imports from China by 42%. This could potentially lead to electric car prices in the EU going up by 0.3% to 0.9%

China Vs EU: Electric Vehicle Trade War Intensifies Over European Union’s Tariff Plan

According to Germany's Kiel Institute and Austrian researchers, these tariffs could cut vehicle imports from China by 42%. This could potentially lead to electric car prices in the EU going up by 0.3% to 0.9%

Buckle up, folks! The electric vehicle market is about to get turbocharged with tension. A high-stakes trade war is brewing between the West and China, and this time, it's all about EVs. Get ready for a shocking ride through tariffs, trade disputes, and the future of the automotive industry! &nbsp; The European Commission, which steers the EU's trade policy, has dropped a bombshell. They're proposing to slap import duties of up to 36 percent on electric vehicles imported from China. This comes on top of the existing 10% duty and is expected to last for five years once the EU's 27 member states vote on it by the end of October. &nbsp; Unsurprisingly, China isn't taking this lying down. They're calling the move "politically-motivated" and "protectionist."&nbsp; Even as China pins its hopes on working things out through talks, it's not putting all its eggs in one basket. They've filed an appeal with the World Trade Organization or WTO over the EU's new EV tariffs. But that's not all&mdash;they've also launched an anti-subsidy investigation into the EU's dairy imports, signalling they're not backing down anytime soon. But why are the two sides fighting over electric vehicles? The genesis of this battle lies in China's rapid growth in the EV space, which has policymakers from the EU bloc worried. China's surge in EV manufacturing is the result of a targeted strategy, pumping huge amounts of state money into domestic companies and R&amp;D. Between 2014 and the end of 2022, China spent over 28 billion dollars on EV subsidies and tax breaks. That gave Chinese companies a major edge in producing cheaper, more efficient EVs, unlike European automakers, who haven't always had that level of support. As a result, Chinese-made EVs now hold over 20% of the EU market. That's a massive jump from around 3% just three years ago. Of these rising sales, around 8% comes from Chinese brands directly. &nbsp; The key Chinese players driving this surge include BYD, which had a record-breaking year in 2023 and is setting its sights on being one of the top five car companies in Europe. &nbsp; Other major Chinese EV makers going big in Europe include SAIC, MG Motor, and Polestar, which is backed by Volvo and Chinese parent company Geely. &nbsp; With Chinese EV giants like BYD making waves in Europe, European policymakers are stuck in a tough spot. On one hand, they need to protect homegrown automakers from the wave of cheaper Chinese EVs. On the other hand, they don't want to pick a fight with China, especially with the goal of banning fossil fuel cars by 2035. &nbsp; In fact, many stakeholders in Germany, which has some of the world's biggest car manufacturers, aren't happy about the new tariffs and have warned they could backfire. Big names like Volkswagen have called the move "detrimental" and BMW's CEO has said it's a "dead end." According to Germany's Kiel Institute and Austrian researchers, these tariffs could cut vehicle imports from China by 42%. This could potentially lead to electric car prices in the EU going up by 0.3% to 0.9%. On the other hand, France and Italy are pushing for the tariffs, while Sweden and Hungary are more cautious. In the end, Europe's got a balancing act on its hands&mdash;either meet climate goals or protect their industry and risk getting caught in a damaging trade war with China. What do you think? Could this be a bold move by Europe to protect its auto industry, or are they risking a costly misstep?&nbsp;

Officials in China have announced that the retirement age for men will go up from 60 to 63. For women, it will increase from 50 or 55 to either 55 or 58, depending on their job type

China Raises Retirement Age Amid Demographic Crisis and Economic Strain: All You Need To Know

Officials in China have announced that the retirement age for men will go up from 60 to 63. For women, it will increase from 50 or 55 to either 55 or 58, depending on their job type

Imagine hitting 60, thinking retirement is finally within reach, and then&mdash;boom&mdash;the retirement age gets pushed to 63!
Just like that, you're back to the grind for three more years. That's exactly what's happening in China.
And it's got people wondering, 'When can we actually get our pension?' But that's not all. Many are also worried that with the stress and competition they face today, their health might not even last that long. So what does this really mean for their future? Let's break it down&hellip;
Officials in China have announced that the retirement age for men will go up from 60 to 63. For women, it will increase from 50 or 55 to either 55 or 58, depending on their job type. Women in blue-collar jobs will retire at 55, while those in higher-ranking positions will retire at 58.
But why is this happening? China faces a demographic crisis: hundreds of millions are set to enter old age in the coming decades, whilst the birth rate plummets dramatically. The world's second-largest economy is grappling with a rapidly ageing society, with its population declining for the second consecutive year in 2023.
Policymakers warn of potentially severe impacts on the economy, healthcare, and social welfare systems if action isn't taken. The country's retirement age, among the lowest globally, hadn't been raised for decades.
<h3>So, how are people reacting? Let's find out.</h3>
China&rsquo;s state media explained that the decision was based on factors like average life expectancy, health conditions, population size, education levels, and labour availability.
China's current retirement age was established during widespread poverty, long before market reforms improved wealth, nutrition, health, and living conditions. Now the country has an ageing population, and declining birth rates, straining its pension and public health systems.
The situation has been further complicated by prolonged weakness in the Chinese economy post-COVID-19.
Despite lifting strict COVID-19 restrictions, the anticipated strong post-pandemic recovery hasn't materialised. A prolonged property sector debt crisis, ongoing deflationary pressures, and high unemployment continue to weigh heavily on investor confidence.
The economic outlook is so challenging that most global investment banks have cut their growth forecast for China to below 5% - the lowest in decades and below the official target set by the country this year.
These economic challenges, coupled with a looming demographic crisis, have compelled the Chinese government to take this drastic step of increasing the retirement age.
Also Watch: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/lebanon-pager-blasts-videos-show-explosions-ensuing-chaos-us-said-no-role-in-attack-1726634199339">Lebanon Pager Blasts: Videos Show Explosions, Ensuing Chaos | US Said: No Role In Attack</a>

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