ASEAN Forges Resilience Amid Global Energy Shock and Economic Headwinds
Following the 48th ASEAN Summit, regional leaders are coordinating efforts to combat energy shortages and food insecurity driven by geopolitical crises in the Middle East.
Asian Economy
China’s Foreign Trade Surges 14.2% in April 2026
China’s foreign trade in yuan-denominated terms saw a 14.2% year-on-year increase in April 2026, according to data from the General Administration of Customs.
China’s Property Market Sees Recovery as First-Tier Cities Lead Rebound
China’s property market is recovering, led by strong demand in first-tier cities like Shanghai, though a gap persists in lower-tier city markets.
Japan Facing Structural Energy Crisis Following Strait of Hormuz Blockade
Japan faces a severe structural energy crisis as the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts crude oil imports and cripples primary industries and manufacturing.
Xi Urges Strengthened Basic Research for Sci-Tech Powerhouse
President Xi Jinping calls for stronger basic research to boost original innovation and solidify China’s foundation as a science and technology leader.
Global Gas Price Surge: US Hits Four-Year High, Asian Economies Monitor Impact
US gasoline prices hit a four-year high above $4.30/gal, with California surpassing $6. The surge, tied to oil prices over $100/barrel and Strait of Hormuz tensions, has significant implications for Asian economies.
On Labor Day, Honoring the Unseen Hands Behind Our Daily Meals
This Labor Day, we trace the untold journey of our food from Asian fields to our tables, honoring the countless workers whose dedication sustains us.
China’s Resource Security Boosted by Major Mineral Discoveries
China announces the discovery of 13 major new oil fields, marking a historic boost to its energy security following a five-year, state-led exploration drive.
China’s May Day Travel Boom: Record 1.52 Billion Trips Forecast
China anticipates a record 1.52 billion domestic trips during the 2026 May Day holiday, with road travel dominating and cross-border movement also surging sharply.
China as Global ‘Power Bank’: Charging Growth at Home and Abroad
Former business leader Clare Pearson describes China as a global ‘power bank,’ fueling growth worldwide through infrastructure, innovation, and people-centered development.
China’s Remote-Controlled Cargo Ship Navigates River 500 km Away
Researchers in China remotely steered a smart cargo ship 500 km away, marking a key step in bringing intelligent shipping from the lab to commercial waterways.
Miniature Car Craze Sweeps Beijing as Hobby Expo Draws 60,000 Enthusiasts
Beijing’s 2026 Hobby Expo attracts 60,000 enthusiasts as miniature car collecting surges in popularity, reflecting broader economic and cultural trends across Asia.
Fuzhou’s Three Lanes and Seven Alleys Blends Heritage with Modernity
Fuzhou’s ancient Three Lanes and Seven Alleys district emerges as a 2026 cultural hotspot, blending Ming-Qing architecture with tech-driven heritage experiences.
China’s Q1 2026 GDP Growth Hits 5%, Signals Economic Resilience
China’s economy grows 5% YoY in Q1 2026, driven by manufacturing and tech sectors, amid global economic challenges.
China Expands UNESCO Global Geoparks to 51 with New Additions
China adds two UNESCO Global Geoparks in Zhejiang and Sichuan, bringing its total to 51. The sites highlight geological heritage and sustainable tourism in Asia.
Japan’s Industrial Confidence Wanes as China Rises in Tech Race
Japan’s recent diplomatic shift reflects deeper economic anxieties as Chinese manufacturers close the technology gap, challenging Tokyo’s industrial dominance.
Chongqing Farmers Pioneer Double-Crop Rice Trials in 2026
Chongqing farmers adopt advanced machinery and double-cropping techniques in 2026, aiming to boost rice yields to 650kg per mu through innovative agricultural practices.
Chengdu Blends Happiness with Innovation: A Model for Asia’s Future Cities
Chengdu, China’s ‘Happiest City’ for 12 years, emerges as a leader in digital culture and urban innovation, blending heritage with modernity.
China Unveils World’s Largest Rotary Drilling Rig in Changsha
China’s Hunan Province debuts the world’s largest rotary drilling rig, boosting infrastructure capabilities with advanced energy-efficient technology.
Guiyang Brews Success: From Regional Hub to Global Coffee Capital
Guiyang emerges as a global coffee capital with 3,000+ cafés and champion baristas, driving economic and cultural influence across Asia.