Europe’s Battery Ambitions Falter as China Pulls Ahead
FRANKFURT/BRUSSELS/BEIJING — China’s lead in global battery manufacturing continues to grow, while Europe’s efforts to build a competitive battery cell industry are faltering. The recent financial collapse of Swedish startup Northvolt is more than an isolated failure—it’s a symptom of … Continue reading Europe’s Battery Ambitions Falter as China Pulls Ahead
US presses Hanoi to reduce dependence on China
WASHINGTON/HANOI – The US is urging Vietnam to lessen its reliance on Chinese tech in devices assembled locally—such as Apple iPhones, Samsung smartphones, and Meta/Google VR headsets—exported to the American market. Hanoi is hosting meetings with domestic manufacturers to boost … Continue reading US presses Hanoi to reduce dependence on China
Trump Declares Rare Earths Deal ‘Done’ with China
WASHINGTON/LONDON/BEIJING – President Trump proclaimed on Truth Social that China has agreed to supply U.S. companies with “full magnets” and rare earth metals up front, while the U.S. will refrain from revoking visas for Chinese students. This announcement follows two … Continue reading Trump Declares Rare Earths Deal ‘Done’ with China
China-Laos Railway Breaks Passenger, Freight Records
BEIJING/VIENTIANE – The China-Laos Railway is experiencing a remarkable surge in both passenger and freight traffic in 2025, underscoring its growing role as a “Golden Line” linking China with Southeast Asia. According to the latest data up to May 22, … Continue reading China-Laos Railway Breaks Passenger, Freight Records
Trump and Xi Reignite Trade Talks
WASHINGTON/BEIJING – In a significant development amid escalating trade tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in a 90-minute phone call on Thursday, June 5. This marked their first direct conversation since Trump’s return to office … Continue reading Trump and Xi Reignite Trade Talks