Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Lukas prizes honor books on homelessness, the US Census and ancient India

    Lukas prizes honor books on homelessness, the US Census and ancient India

    The prestigious J. Anthony Lukas Prize Project has announced its 2024 laureates, recognizing exceptional nonfiction works that tackle profound social issues through rigorous research and narrative excellence. Administered through a partnership between Columbia Journalism School and Harvard University’s Nieman Foundation, these awards continue their tradition of celebrating investigative depth and literary merit.

    Jeff Hobbs received the Lukas Book Prize, accompanied by a $10,000 award, for his work ‘Seeking Shelter: A Working Mother, Her Children, and a Story of Homelessness in America.’ The selection committee praised the book for its compassionate examination of housing insecurity and its human impact on American families, highlighting its combination of meticulous research with compelling storytelling.

    The Mark Lynton History Prize, also carrying a $10,000 award, was presented to William Dalrymple for ‘The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World.’ The work received recognition for its groundbreaking exploration of India’s historical influence on global civilization, demonstrating both scholarly depth and narrative elegance.

    This year’s Lukas Work-in-Progress Awards, each providing $25,000 to support authors during their writing process, were granted to two distinctive projects: danah boyd for ‘Data Are Made, Not Found: A Story of Politics, Power, and the Civil Servants Who Saved the U.S. Census,’ which examines the bureaucratic challenges and political pressures surrounding the national census, and Karim Zidan for ‘In the Shadow of the Cage,’ a work whose subject matter continues the Lukas tradition of addressing complex social themes.

    Established in 1998 to honor the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist J. Anthony Lukas, these awards have previously celebrated literary luminaries including Robert Caro, Isabel Wilkerson, and Jill Lepore, maintaining their position among the most distinguished recognitions in nonfiction literature.

  • Bridge as witness: Following journalist Du Juan’s 22-year journey through Beijing’s pulse

    Bridge as witness: Following journalist Du Juan’s 22-year journey through Beijing’s pulse

    For over two decades, the architectural landmarks spanning Beijing’s waterways have silently documented the remarkable evolution of China’s capital through the unique perspective of journalist Du Juan. Her professional journey, intricately intertwined with the city’s development, offers a compelling narrative of urban transformation and personal growth.

    Beginning her career during a period of rapid modernization, Du Juan has utilized Beijing’s bridge network—from the historical Xizhimen crossing to the contemporary marvels of Guomao and the expanding infrastructure in Tongzhou—as both physical landmarks and metaphorical devices to frame her reporting. These structures have served as constant witnesses to the city’s accelerating pace, facilitating movement while simultaneously connecting communities across generations.

    Through her extensive body of work, Du has captured the essence of Beijing’s socioeconomic changes, documenting how infrastructure development has shaped urban life, influenced cultural practices, and redefined the relationship between citizens and their environment. Her reporting provides a nuanced chronicle of how the city has balanced preservation with progress, maintaining cultural identity while embracing modernization.

    The bridges themselves tell a parallel story of engineering achievement and urban planning, representing the intersection of tradition and innovation that characterizes contemporary Beijing. From their architectural designs to their functional adaptations, these structures mirror the city’s journey toward becoming a global metropolis while retaining its historical significance.

    Du’s longitudinal perspective offers invaluable insights into the human experience within a rapidly transforming urban landscape, making her work not just a personal professional history but a significant document of urban development in 21st century China.

  • Asia braces for sweeping tariffs

    Asia braces for sweeping tariffs

    Multiple Asian economies are preparing for significant trade disruptions following the United States’ initiation of extensive Section 301 investigations, which could result in substantial tariffs on critical export sectors. This development comes in the wake of a landmark US Supreme Court decision on February 20 that declared “reciprocal tariffs” unlawful under current trade legislation.

    The investigations leverage Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974, which empowers the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) to examine allegedly unfair foreign trade practices. Upon identifying violations, the US government can implement tariffs or other trade restrictions to compel policy changes from trading partners.

    Malaysian Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Johari Ghani identified several vulnerable sectors including electrical and electronics, oil and gas, and plantation commodities such as palm oil. He emphasized that the Supreme Court ruling necessitates specific justification for tariffs rather than blanket impositions, stating that “if they claim it is due to trade surplus, they must specify the industry involved.”

    The USTR has launched two major investigations targeting 16 trading partners—including China, the European Union, Norway, Singapore, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Mexico, Japan and India—alleging structural excess capacity in manufacturing. A subsequent probe targets 60 economies over forced labor allegations.

    Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry has challenged the factual basis of the investigations, noting significant discrepancies in trade data. While the USTR cited a $27 billion bilateral trade surplus for Singapore in 2024, official data from the US Bureau of Economic Analysis indicates Singapore actually maintained a trade deficit of approximately $27 billion with the United States.

    The investigations have drawn strong criticism across Asia. South Korea’s minor progressive Jinbo Party spokeswoman Son Sol condemned “the US’ unilateral act of aggression that shatters international trade order,” noting that the probes target key Korean sectors including automotive and semiconductor industries.

    Analysts from Singapore’s DBS Bank characterize the Section 301 moves as a “plan B” for the US administration following the Supreme Court’s rejection of reciprocal tariffs. The bank notes this approach aims to establish a more durable legal foundation for tariffs ahead of the July expiration of temporary global tariff measures.

    For smaller economies like Cambodia, where nearly 40% of exports destination is the US, the investigations highlight the urgent need for more resilient export strategies. Arnaud Darc, chairman of hospitality company Thalias, observed that “small economies rarely get to choose the moment their structural assumptions are tested.”

    In response to the trade pressure, South Korea’s National Assembly recently passed special legislation enabling $350 billion in US investments, fulfilling a commitment made previously in exchange for reduced tariffs. Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo emphasized that fulfilling investment promises represents the most effective approach to stabilizing tariff conditions.

  • China builds comprehensive groundwater monitoring system

    China builds comprehensive groundwater monitoring system

    China has successfully implemented a sophisticated nationwide automated groundwater monitoring infrastructure, representing a major advancement in environmental resource management. According to an announcement from the Ministry of Water Resources, this comprehensive system features extensive coverage across diverse groundwater types, complete monitoring parameters, and utilizes cutting-edge technology.

    Groundwater serves as an indispensable resource for China’s economic and social development while functioning as a strategic asset for maintaining ecological health. Between 2015 and 2020, Chinese authorities established more than 20,000 national-level groundwater monitoring stations, creating an integrated network capable of real-time surveillance and early warning capabilities specifically designed to combat groundwater over-extraction.

    The ministry reported significant environmental improvements resulting from sustained management efforts, including strict extraction controls and comprehensive protection measures. By the conclusion of 2025, groundwater levels across northern China demonstrated substantial recovery compared to 2020 benchmarks. Monitoring data revealed particularly impressive gains in managed areas, with shallow groundwater levels rising by an average of 3.76 meters and deep groundwater levels increasing by an average of 7.65 meters.

    This achievement represents a milestone in China’s environmental protection initiatives, demonstrating how technological innovation combined with rigorous policy implementation can produce measurable improvements in natural resource conservation. The automated system’s real-time capabilities provide unprecedented visibility into groundwater dynamics, enabling more responsive management of this critical environmental resource.

  • Sour soup from Guizhou makes a splash overseas too

    Sour soup from Guizhou makes a splash overseas too

    What begins as an unfamiliar aroma evolves into an addictive culinary experience for those who dare to taste it. Kaili sour soup, a vibrant red delicacy from China’s Guizhou province, is captivating international palates while driving substantial economic growth in its native region.

    This traditional fermented soup, with roots stretching back over a millennium in the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong autonomous prefecture, represents both cultural heritage and culinary innovation. The signature red variation derives from natural fermentation of wild tomatoes (maolaguo) while the white version originates from rice. Blended with chili and litsea cubeba spices, the slow aging process yields a complex flavor profile—initially sour and spicy with a refreshing, subtly sweet finish.

    Deputy Zheng Peikun of the 14th National People’s Congress explains the historical context: ‘The tradition stems from times when salt was scarce, leading locals to develop fermentation techniques for seasoning. The saying goes: Three days without sour, and you’ll walk unsteady for sure.’

    Beyond its cultural significance as intangible cultural heritage, sour soup has evolved into an economic powerhouse. The Qiandongnan sour soup industry chain reached 8.15 billion yuan ($1.18 billion) in 2025, representing a staggering 221.4% year-on-year increase. This growth extends beyond China’s borders, with companies like Guizhou Yumeng Food Group exporting soup bases and instant rice noodles to Vietnam, Thailand, South Korea, Australia, the United States, Canada, and Spain, achieving 4.2 million yuan in export value.

    The international expansion continues through multiple channels. Restaurants featuring Guizhou sour soup have emerged in New York, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Phnom Penh, Kuala Lumpur, Madrid, and Melbourne. In Silicon Valley, restaurant operator Chen Yuzhu reports sour soup dishes as menu favorites. Innovative culinary fusions include sour soup-flavored spaghetti developed in collaboration with Milanese restaurants.

    During the recent National People’s Congress sessions, representatives highlighted the dish’s potential. NPC deputy Zhang Jizhi emphasized its health benefits as a natural source of probiotics and antioxidants that stimulate appetite and aid digestion. Provincial Party Secretary Xu Lin noted its visual appeal and refreshing qualities, advocating for broader national accessibility.

    The movement has gained organic momentum through events like the Village Super League soccer tournament, where foreigners’ initial hesitation transforms into enthusiastic adoption after tasting. Industry leaders like Chen Yang of Qiandaren Restaurant, which expanded to Ho Chi Minh City in January, recognize the dual appeal: satisfying homesick Chinese communities while aligning with local flavor preferences.

    With government support and growing international recognition, this traditional fermented soup appears poised for continued global expansion, carrying with it centuries of culinary wisdom and economic opportunity.

  • Scientists discover ‘baby star clusters’, offering new evidence for star formation

    Scientists discover ‘baby star clusters’, offering new evidence for star formation

    In a landmark astronomical discovery, researchers from China West Normal University have identified two exceptionally young star clusters located approximately 45,000 light-years from Earth in the peripheral regions of the Milky Way galaxy. Designated as Emei-1 and Emei-2, these celestial formations represent what scientists are calling ‘baby star clusters’ due to their remarkably recent emergence in cosmic terms.

    The findings, published in the prestigious journal Nature Astronomy, reveal that these clusters originated approximately 11 million years ago from a violent collision between two dense gas clumps within a high-velocity gas cloud streaming toward our galaxy. Associate Professor He Zhihong, the paper’s lead author, explained that the intense pressure generated by this cosmic impact created an extremely compressed environment that triggered the star formation process.

    What makes this discovery particularly significant is its challenge to conventional astronomical understanding. Previously, astronomers observing high-velocity clouds could detect only gaseous matter without any stellar components. The Emei clusters provide the first concrete evidence that such clouds can indeed foster star birth under specific extreme conditions, fundamentally altering scientific perspectives on stellar formation locations.

    Additionally, this breakthrough offers direct observational support for the theoretical framework suggesting that the Milky Way grows and nurtures new stars by accreting fresh gas from its intergalactic surroundings. The clusters’ distinctive blue coloration and exceptional brightness – characteristics of very young stars – further confirm their status as cosmic ‘newborns’ in the vast timeline of the universe.

  • Japanese firms upbeat on China’s rapid advances

    Japanese firms upbeat on China’s rapid advances

    TOKYO – Japan’s corporate sector maintains a strongly optimistic outlook on China’s economic trajectory, identifying rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and digital technologies as pivotal growth catalysts. This perspective emerges amid comprehensive industrial modernization efforts outlined in China’s 2026 Government Work Report, which prioritizes developing emerging sectors including integrated circuits and expanding the ‘AI Plus Initiative’ to accelerate large-scale implementation of digital technologies.

    Academic analysis from Rikkyo University’s College of Economics in Tokyo indicates China has strategically positioned technological innovation as the cornerstone of its industrial transformation, achieving remarkable progress across multiple sectors. The new energy vehicle industry exemplifies this transformation, with China establishing both substantial market presence and reinforced competitiveness in battery technology and comprehensive supply chain infrastructure.

    Recent automotive industry data reveals unprecedented production and sales figures exceeding 34 million units in the previous year, with new energy vehicles emerging as the primary growth driver. This segment achieved production and sales surpassing 16 million units, representing approximately 30 percent year-on-year growth and marking China’s eleventh consecutive year as the global leader in new energy vehicle sales.

    While acknowledging ongoing challenges within China’s semiconductor industry, experts note consistent expansion in research investment and gradual enhancement of technological capabilities. The rapidly evolving AI and digital sectors are projected to become principal economic growth engines in forthcoming years.

    The Japan-China Economic Association recognizes substantial potential within emerging technology and consumer sectors, affirming China’s sustained leadership in digital technologies. Despite regional supply chain restructuring initiatives, the association emphasizes China’s indispensable position within East Asia’s manufacturing and supply networks, noting that the nation’s extensive domestic market and progressively advancing manufacturing capabilities ensure its central role in regional industrial chains will persist indefinitely.

    Japanese economic circles simultaneously underscore the critical importance of stable bilateral economic relations, particularly following recent diplomatic tensions arising from provocative statements regarding China’s Taiwan region. These developments have adversely affected economic exchanges between the nations, resulting in the unprecedented cancellation of the annual joint business delegation that had continued since 1975.

    Existing cooperation mechanisms such as the Japan-China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Forum remain vital channels for economic collaboration, with significant potential for expanded cooperation in addressing global challenges. Beyond current priorities in decarbonization and digital economy sectors, future collaboration may encompass healthcare, elderly care services, social welfare systems, and disaster prevention initiatives.

    Continued progress in China’s market liberalization and business environment improvements are expected to provide Japanese companies with increasingly stable investment conditions, particularly within China’s vast consumer market where demand for premium products and services continues to escalate. Promising growth sectors including green energy, digital economy, artificial intelligence, and healthcare present substantial opportunities for Japanese enterprises, highlighting the necessity for deepened cooperation rather than confrontation to achieve balanced and mutually beneficial bilateral relations.

  • US embassy in Baghdad attacked, fire breaks out

    US embassy in Baghdad attacked, fire breaks out

    The heavily fortified US Embassy compound in Baghdad’s Green Zone came under sustained attack in the early hours of Tuesday, March 17, 2026, with multiple projectiles striking the diplomatic facility and igniting fires within the secure perimeter.

    According to security sources in the Iraqi capital, the assault began on Monday evening and continued into Tuesday morning, representing one of the most significant attacks against American diplomatic presence in recent months. The Green Zone, which houses numerous government buildings and foreign missions, was placed on high alert as emergency response teams mobilized to contain the blazes within the embassy grounds.

    The attack occurred against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions and ongoing security challenges in Iraq. While no group has immediately claimed responsibility, the methodology suggests possible militia involvement. The United States maintains a significant diplomatic presence in Iraq despite periodic security incidents targeting its facilities.

    Pentagon officials have been notified of the incident and are monitoring developments closely. The State Department has yet to issue an official statement regarding potential casualties or damage assessment. Iraqi security forces have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation into the source of the attack.

    This incident marks the latest in a series of security challenges facing diplomatic compounds in Baghdad, underscoring the persistent volatility in the region despite ongoing stabilization efforts. The attack will likely prompt renewed discussions about security protocols for foreign missions in Iraq and may influence upcoming diplomatic engagements in the region.

  • Shanghai’s invasive BMI medical device gets nod

    Shanghai’s invasive BMI medical device gets nod

    Shanghai-based Neuracle Technology has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in medical technology as its implantable brain-machine interface (BMI) system received full market authorization, becoming the world’s first invasive BMI medical device to gain regulatory approval. This historic development signals the transition of China’s invasive neural technology from experimental research to widespread clinical implementation.

    The National Medical Products Administration granted the medical device registration certificate on March 13, 2026, following successful clinical trials demonstrating significant improvement in hand-grasping ability among participants with quadriplegia. The device specifically targets patients aged 18 to 60 who have lost grasping function due to cervical spinal cord injuries.

    Neuracle’s innovative system employs a coin-sized minimally invasive implant that utilizes extradural implantation technology, positioning electrodes outside the dura mater to avoid brain tissue damage while maintaining high signal quality. The device extracts and analyzes neural signals in real-time, enabling patients to control specialized gloves through thought alone to perform essential tasks like grasping objects and drinking.

    Clinical trials involving 36 participants revealed a remarkable 100 percent improvement rate in grasping function, with some patients exhibiting additional neurological benefits including neural remodeling and recovery of supplementary nerve functions. The system features wireless power and communication capabilities, allowing for single implantation with long-term usability. Surgical implantation requires just over an hour, with patients typically achieving independent home operation within one month post-procedure.

    Compared to international counterparts, Neuracle’s technology demonstrates superior advantages in trauma reduction, patient compliance, and long-term stability. The company, founded in 2011 and among China’s first BMI-focused enterprises, plans to achieve the first clinical application this year while working to reduce manufacturing costs to enhance accessibility.

    The National Medical Products Administration emphasized its commitment to supporting major innovations in high-end medical devices, stating: ‘We will fully promote the application of new technologies, new materials, new processes and new methods in the healthcare field to enhance the international competitiveness of China’s high-end medical devices.’

    Industry experts recognize the device as providing a Chinese solution for global neurological treatment and offering novel insights for nervous system rehabilitation. BMI technology represents the convergence of integrated circuits, biomedicine, and artificial intelligence, with Shanghai emerging as a global hub for this cutting-edge field. The city currently hosts approximately 60 BMI companies, representing one of the world’s highest concentrations of firms and most advanced technologies in neural interface development.

    By 2025, Shanghai had already seen three invasive products enter China’s special review process for innovative medical devices, with another invasive product entering the FDA’s breakthrough therapy pathway. Several non-invasive BMI products are already deployed in stroke rehabilitation, mental health screening, and sleep disorder treatment.

  • Bus service meets regional business travel demands

    Bus service meets regional business travel demands

    A transformative commuter bus service connecting Beijing with the rapidly developing Xiong’an New Area has officially commenced operations, marking a significant milestone in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei regional integration initiative. The service, which completed successful trial operations spanning more than a year, introduces an expanded network designed specifically to accommodate growing business travel demands between the two economic hubs.

    The newly launched system features a strategic route expansion, including a specialized branch line that originates at Beijing’s Liuliqiao subway station, traverses the prominent Lize financial business district, and terminates at the Zhongguancun Science Park within Xiong’an. This carefully designed connectivity addresses the practical transportation needs of professionals and corporations operating across both locations.

    According to Zhang Jingxing, an official with the Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport, the service formalization enables broader commuter benefits while substantially enhancing transport infrastructure for industrial collaboration. The network design incorporates data insights from over 8,500 trial passengers, ensuring optimal route efficiency and coverage.

    The current operational framework includes three customized routes spanning 120 kilometers with a maximum travel duration of two hours. Priced at 50 yuan ($7.20) for a one-way journey, the service recorded promising initial metrics with 75 morning passengers on launch day and an average seat occupancy rate of 45%—surpassing projections by approximately 15%.

    Operational advantages include dedicated bus lanes and expedited checkpoint processing, eliminating inspection stops at Beijing borders. Wang Zhen, general manager of the operating company, emphasized the service’s competitive positioning: “It offers greater economy than private driving and superior convenience compared to high-speed rail options.”

    Passenger experience incorporates digital innovation through an official WeChat platform for ticket booking, with boarding facilitated via facial recognition or ID card authentication—eliminating traditional paper tickets. One commuter, identified as Li, praised the seamless integration with subway systems and direct workplace access without transfers.

    The broader customized network now encompasses 12 main routes and 58 branch lines interconnecting Beijing with multiple cities across Hebei province and Tianjin municipality. Cumulative performance data reveals impressive scale: over 163,000 completed trips transporting more than 5.3 million passengers to date.

    This development aligns with transportation objectives outlined in China’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), which envisioned a “1 to 1.5-hour transportation circle” between major regional cities. With increasing corporate relocations to Xiong’an, including headquarters of major enterprises like China Satellite Network Group and Sinochem Group, demand is projected to grow substantially.

    Future expansion plans already include additional routes connecting Beijing’s Shuangjing station with Xiong’an’s Xuanwu Hospital and university district, further reinforcing the commitment to convenient, efficient, and affordable cross-city mobility.