Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Time for the US to let Chinese EVs roll in

    Time for the US to let Chinese EVs roll in

    In a surprising policy reversal, prominent economic commentator Noah Smith advocates for the United States to permit the sale of Chinese electric vehicles despite previously supporting restrictive trade measures against China. This position emerges following Canada’s groundbreaking decision to dramatically reduce tariffs on Chinese-made EVs from 100% to 6.1%, while implementing import quotas starting at 49,000 units annually.

    The Canadian-Chinese agreement represents a significant geopolitical divergence from US policy, which maintains 125% tariffs on Chinese EVs alongside bans on vehicles connected to Chinese software ecosystems. This separation reflects deteriorating US-Canada relations and Canada’s strategic calculation that reduced American auto investment in China diminishes the risks of policy independence.

    Smith argues that American self-interest actually demands embracing Chinese EVs to accelerate the nation’s stalled electric transition. While global EV adoption accelerates, US progress has faltered due to terminated subsidies, Tesla’s declining popularity, and traditional automakers’ retreat from electric commitments. Ford recently announced $19.5 billion in charges related to scaling back EV ambitions, while General Motors recorded $1.6 billion in similar charges, and Stellantis abandoned plans for electric Ram pickups.

    This retreat risks creating ‘Galapagos syndrome’ for American automakers, potentially isolating them from global markets as combustion engines become obsolete. More critically, failure to develop domestic electric technology capabilities threatens national security, since batteries and electric motors power essential military hardware including drones.

    Chinese manufacturers offer sophisticated, affordable EVs featuring futuristic designs, ultra-fast charging, and semi-autonomous capabilities even in budget models. Their competitive pricing stems from complete domestic supply chains and massive production scale. Market evidence from Mexico demonstrates that even with 50% tariffs, Chinese EVs gain significant market share through superior quality and innovation.

    Smith proposes that controlled admission of Chinese EVs would benefit America through multiple mechanisms: stimulating charging infrastructure development, demonstrating EV advantages to consumers, and forcing domestic manufacturers to innovate rather than retreat. Historical precedent exists in how Japanese automakers’ US expansion ultimately created 400,000 American jobs and transferred manufacturing expertise.

    The commentary suggests implementing joint venture requirements and local content incentives to ensure technology transfer and component sourcing, potentially rebuilding America’s industrial capacity in critical electric technologies. Even former President Trump recently endorsed allowing Chinese automakers to establish US operations employing American workers.

    While acknowledging legitimate cybersecurity concerns regarding data collection and potential sabotage capabilities, Smith contends these risks can be managed through monitoring requirements, domestic cloud hosting mandates, and component sourcing regulations rather than complete prohibition.

    The analysis concludes that Canada has demonstrated a viable path forward that the US should refine and implement, recognizing that the benefits of controlled market access outweigh manageable security concerns in accelerating America’s electric transportation future.

  • Will Ramadan’s shorter working days affect UAE employees’ productivity?

    Will Ramadan’s shorter working days affect UAE employees’ productivity?

    As Ramadan approaches in the UAE, the annual reduction of working hours by two hours daily for private sector employees has sparked discussions about workplace productivity during the holy month. While the shortened schedule presents operational challenges, human resources experts and organizational behavior specialists suggest this period may actually enhance focus and efficiency rather than diminish output.

    The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization has historically implemented reduced working hours and flexible arrangements across both public and private sectors to accommodate those observing the fast. According to Ussama Khan, Assistant Professor of Organisational Behaviour at London Business School, the initial days of Ramadan typically require an adjustment period as individuals adapt to altered sleep patterns, meal timings, and hydration schedules. This transition phase, while potentially affecting concentration temporarily, typically gives way to stabilized energy levels thereafter.

    Research from the American Psychological Association and National Library of Medicine indicates fasting does not necessarily impair cognitive function. Studies on intermittent fasting patterns reveal the brain maintains normal operation and can even demonstrate heightened alertness during fasting periods. Khan notes that while comprehensive productivity metrics are limited, qualitative evidence suggests reduced hours may actually enhance focus and effectiveness for many workers.

    The impact varies significantly between white-collar knowledge workers and blue-collar manual laborers. For office-based professionals whose productivity relies on cognitive energy, reduced hours can prove beneficial by encouraging task prioritization and eliminating non-essential activities. Conversely, manual workers depending on physical stamina face greater challenges without the extensive support systems available to professional athletes.

    Jessie Quintilla, People and Culture Director at LINKVIVA, emphasizes that reduced hours coupled with smarter working methods—such as protected focus time, efficient meetings, and outcome-based measurement—can actually boost engagement. The condensed schedule encourages better planning, stronger collaboration, and healthier work-life boundaries throughout organizations.

    Beyond legal compliance, these Ramadan adjustments represent practical measures to protect wellbeing, strengthen social cohesion across the UAE’s diverse workforce, and maintain sustainable productivity throughout the holy month.

  • Mount Qomolangma scenic area closes due to heavy snowfall

    Mount Qomolangma scenic area closes due to heavy snowfall

    Authorities in Tibet Autonomous Region have implemented an immediate closure of the Mount Qomolangma (Everest) scenic area following severe winter weather conditions that have rendered access roads hazardous. The decision was announced Wednesday by the Dingri County Culture and Tourism Bureau after substantial snow accumulation created dangerous driving conditions throughout the region.

    The closure, effective from 3:30 pm local time on January 28, 2026, comes as meteorological authorities issued warnings for continued heavy precipitation across southern Tibet. The National Meteorological Center has forecasted particularly severe conditions along the southwestern mountainous regions, where blizzard conditions are expected to develop.

    Tourism officials confirmed that maintenance crews are actively working to clear impacted roadways and restore safe passage. While no specific reopening timeline has been established, authorities have committed to providing updates as weather conditions improve and safety can be assured. The scenic area management emphasizes that visitor safety remains their paramount concern during these adverse weather events.

    Mount Qomolangma, standing at 8,848.86 meters above sea level, represents one of Tibet’s most significant tourist attractions, typically drawing thousands of visitors annually. This temporary closure demonstrates the ongoing challenges of maintaining accessibility to high-altitude destinations during extreme weather conditions, particularly in winter months when snowfall intensifies.

  • Unmentioned but present, Trump is a common denominator in efforts to strengthen Asia-Europe ties

    Unmentioned but present, Trump is a common denominator in efforts to strengthen Asia-Europe ties

    BEIJING — A strategic realignment is unfolding across Asia as multiple nations establish strengthened diplomatic partnerships, responding to growing uncertainties in the global order. This week witnessed three significant agreements demonstrating how countries are seeking stability through renewed international cooperation.

    In China’s capital, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese leader Xi Jinping committed to a “long-term, stable, and comprehensive strategic partnership” between their nations. This agreement revitalizes a relationship that had seen limited progress since its initial proposal a decade ago, with both leaders emphasizing the need for consistency during what Starmer described as “challenging times for the world.”

    Simultaneously, Vietnam and the European Union formalized their upgraded relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, placing Vietnam on equal diplomatic footing with major global powers including the United States, China, and Russia. The agreement, signed in Hanoi, represents a significant elevation of Vietnam’s international standing.

    Earlier in the week, the European Union and India concluded years of complex negotiations by reaching a comprehensive free trade agreement. The landmark deal encompasses numerous sectors from textile manufacturing to pharmaceutical products, and will substantially reduce India’s protective tariffs on European automobiles and wines.

    While not explicitly named in these discussions, the shadow of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies loomed large over the proceedings. Multiple leaders referenced the need for stability amid global uncertainty, with European Council President António Costa noting in Hanoi that “the international rules-based order is under threat from multiple sides.” The agreements reflect a broader trend of nations seeking to reduce dependency on any single market while strengthening multilateral relationships in response to shifting global dynamics.

  • Thai Air Force says 2 pilots killed in plane crash during training mission

    Thai Air Force says 2 pilots killed in plane crash during training mission

    A Thai Air Force training exercise culminated in a fatal incident on Thursday when an AT-6TH Wolverine light attack and reconnaissance aircraft crashed in a designated military zone. The accident occurred in the Chom Thong district, approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Chiang Mai’s main airport, resulting in the tragic loss of both pilots aboard.

    Air Marshal Jackkrit Thammavichai, acting as spokesperson, confirmed the devastating outcome of the mission. The two-seater turboprop plane, manufactured by U.S.-based Beechcraft, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation, was engaged in a routine training operation at the time of the incident. Authorities have immediately launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the precise cause of the crash, examining all potential technical, environmental, and operational factors.

    This tragedy strikes shortly after the Thai Air Force bolstered its aerial capabilities with the acquisition of these advanced fighter-trainer aircraft. The commission of its fleet of eight AT-6TH Wolverines was only finalized in September, marking a significant modernization effort for the nation’s military aviation division. The incident represents a considerable setback and has cast a somber shadow over the force, prompting a likely review of training protocols and aircraft safety measures.

  • Senior CPC official highlights united front work to support 15th Five-Year Plan

    Senior CPC official highlights united front work to support 15th Five-Year Plan

    In a significant national conference held in Beijing on January 28, 2026, senior Communist Party of China official Wang Huning delivered a comprehensive address emphasizing the critical role of united front work in supporting China’s upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030). Wang, who serves as a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference National Committee, addressed leaders of united front work departments from across the nation.

    Wang articulated the necessity for enhanced implementation of the CPC Central Committee’s decisions regarding united front operations to ensure a successful commencement of the country’s next developmental phase. He stressed the fundamental importance of maintaining the Party’s overall leadership, particularly the centralized and unified guidance from the Party Central Committee, in all united front activities.

    The senior official outlined several strategic priorities for united front work, including adherence to established principles and methodologies to drive high-quality development across relevant sectors. He emphasized the need to strengthen the capacity of united front work to support the central objectives of both the Party and the state.

    Wang specifically highlighted several key areas requiring focused attention: the improvement of China’s distinctive political party system, fostering a robust sense of national community among the Chinese people, establishing stronger legal frameworks for religious affairs governance, and enhancing engagement with non-CPC intellectuals, emerging social groups, and private sector representatives. Additionally, he addressed the importance of advancing work related to Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese communities.

  • Widespread rain, snow to hit central, eastern China

    Widespread rain, snow to hit central, eastern China

    A significant winter weather system is poised to deliver extensive precipitation across central and eastern China beginning Thursday, according to the National Meteorological Center’s Wednesday advisory. The comprehensive weather pattern will bring a complex mix of precipitation types affecting numerous provinces with potentially substantial impacts.

    Meteorological authorities indicate that several regions including Shaanxi, Henan, Hubei, Jiangsu, Anhui, and Hunan provinces should prepare for heavy snowfall, with certain areas potentially experiencing blizzard conditions. Higher elevation mountainous regions may face additional challenges with possible freezing rain events developing during the storm system.

    Chief forecaster Ma Xuekuan emphasized the system’s extensive geographical coverage and complicated precipitation characteristics, noting that some regions will confront particularly intense snowfall accumulations. The meteorological center has highlighted multiple concerns regarding the storm’s potential consequences.

    Weather experts have issued warnings regarding probable disruptions to transportation networks, energy distribution systems, and agricultural operations. Public health considerations have also been raised due to the expected severe conditions. Meteorological officials are urging residents throughout affected regions to implement appropriate precautionary measures and stay updated through official weather channels as the system develops.

  • Fujian strengthens cross-Strait ties

    Fujian strengthens cross-Strait ties

    Fujian Province has solidified its status as mainland China’s primary destination for Taiwanese investment for four consecutive years, according to Governor Zhao Long’s address at the Fujian Provincial People’s Congress. The eastern coastal region is accelerating its transformation into a demonstration zone for cross-Strait integrated development, implementing concrete measures to foster national reunification through economic collaboration and cultural connectivity.

    The province’s 2025 performance metrics reveal substantial progress, with 2,612 newly established Taiwan-funded enterprises and $724 million in actual utilized Taiwanese capital. A landmark achievement came with the introduction of China’s first local regulations on cross-Strait standard commonality, resulting in 41 new shared technical standards that facilitate smoother business operations.

    Infrastructure development features prominently in Fujian’s integration strategy. The province is advancing projects to supply water, electricity, and gas to Taiwan-administered islands of Jinmen and Matsu. Xiamen authorities aim to complete their section of the Xiamen-Jinmen Bridge this year while promoting shared usage of the newly constructed Xiamen Xiang’an International Airport as a regional hub for Jinmen residents.

    Economic integration efforts include creating a “common market” targeting electronic information, machinery, and biomedicine sectors, alongside expanded recognition of Taiwanese professional qualifications. The province plans to launch at least 30 new joint rural vitalization projects in 2026 to enhance Fujian’s appeal to Taiwanese compatriots.

    Cultural initiatives form a crucial component of the integration strategy. Governor Zhao emphasized ancestral connections through the “Taiwan Compatriots Root-seeking Platform” and proposed legislation for tracing cross-Strait family genealogies. The successful TV drama “Silent Honor,” filmed in Fujian and based on historical events, has resonated across the Strait by showcasing shared landscapes and historical bonds.

    Political advisers proposed additional measures including leveraging Mazu culture—worshiped on both sides—as a gateway for “emotional integration” and comprehensive tourism cooperation. Other recommendations focused on youth engagement through systematic support for Taiwanese participation in urban renewal and rural construction projects, alongside simplified financial services and optimized residency policies for Taiwanese professionals.

  • UN envoy sees potential turning point for Gaza, warns of uncertainties

    UN envoy sees potential turning point for Gaza, warns of uncertainties

    UN Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Ramiz Alakbarov presented a cautiously optimistic yet deeply concerning assessment of the Gaza situation during Wednesday’s UN Security Council open debate. Addressing the Middle East conflict and Palestinian question, Alakbarov characterized the current moment as both a potential turning point and a period of significant vulnerability.

    The diplomatic landscape shows promise with the announced implementation of the second phase of former US President Donald Trump’s 20-point comprehensive plan, which Alakbarov identified as a crucial development for cementing the fragile ceasefire. However, this political progress contrasts starkly with the devastating humanitarian reality on the ground.

    Gaza’s entire population remains dependent on humanitarian assistance, with recent heavy rainfall and cold temperatures intensifying the suffering of over 1.5 million displaced Palestinians. Humanitarian operations face severe constraints including security concerns, customs clearance obstacles, Israeli restrictions on authorized partners, cargo delays at crossings, and limited internal transport routes.

    Despite the nominal ceasefire, Alakbarov reported continued Israeli military operations involving airstrikes, shelling, and gunfire across the territory. Hundreds of Palestinians, including numerous women and children, have been killed since the ceasefire began.

    The envoy also highlighted deteriorating conditions in the occupied West Bank, where September-December 2025 saw entrenched negative trends including extensive military operations, settlement expansion, settler violence, demolitions, and large-scale detentions.

    Amid these challenges, Alakbarov identified a genuine opportunity to establish foundations for regional stability, advance Palestinian governmental reunification of Gaza and the West Bank, and ultimately work toward ending the occupation through a renewed political process.

  • More foreign cases landing in IP Court

    More foreign cases landing in IP Court

    China is rapidly establishing itself as a premier global jurisdiction for international intellectual property litigation, with foreign entities increasingly opting for Chinese judicial channels to resolve complex IP disputes. Judicial authorities from China’s Supreme People’s Court have revealed significant growth in international cases, signaling growing international confidence in China’s legal framework for intellectual property protection.

    Since its inauguration in January 2019, the specialized Intellectual Property Court has adjudicated 2,546 foreign-related cases, demonstrating an impressive average annual growth rate of 18.7 percent. Deputy Chief Judge He Zhonglin disclosed these statistics during a recent press conference, highlighting that approximately 30 percent of these cases involved invention patent authorization and confirmation proceedings.

    The court’s foundational principle of equal protection for all litigants, regardless of nationality, has been instrumental in attracting international participation. “We’ve consistently upheld the equal protection of IP rights holders, regardless of their origin,” Judge He emphasized. This commitment to impartiality has significantly enhanced the credibility and global standing of China’s judicial system in intellectual property matters.

    Senior Judge Zhang Xinfeng elaborated on the court’s comprehensive approach, noting that judicial authorities remain dedicated to delivering “fair, just, convenient, efficient, and humanized legal services” to both domestic and international participants. The court adopts a global perspective while respecting litigants’ autonomy, striving to achieve substantive conflict resolution and foster mutually beneficial cooperation among parties.

    This judicial philosophy has garnered trust from international innovators, resulting in a increasing number of foreign-related cases being successfully resolved through mediation. The specialized court, which handles appeals concerning invention patents, plant varieties, integrated circuits, technical secrets, software, and monopolies, has implemented a streamlined appeals process that bypasses provincial high courts, enhancing both efficiency and consistency in complex technical hearings.

    Over its seven-year operation, the court has imposed punitive damages in 58 cases totaling 2.05 billion yuan ($295 million), while identifying monopolistic practices across multiple sectors including pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, e-commerce, and public welfare services. This robust enforcement mechanism has strengthened IP protection frameworks and stimulated innovation within China’s evolving knowledge economy.