China’s recent investigation into Canada’s tariff hike on Chinese electric vehicles has sparked discussions among analysts. The probe, initiated under the pretext of combating discriminatory practices, has the potential to set a new precedent in trade disputes. The Ministry of Commerce cited Article 7 of China’s foreign trade law, allowing for countermeasures against any country implementing discriminatory measures. This move came shortly after Canada announced 100% tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. Economics professor Yao Weiqun noted that this use of a trade tool is unconventional for China, despite the provision existing since 1994. The investigation indicates that China is prepared…

Reflecting on the Chinese economy after nearly 11 years, it is evident that while progress has been made, the reforms implemented have been disappointing. Former Premier Wen Jiabao’s critique in 2007 remained unresolved, highlighting the instability and imbalance in the economy. The failure of the 2013 third plenum reflects the challenge of low household consumption as a share of GDP, a persistent issue in China’s reform agenda. Despite efforts since 2013, the focus has shifted towards quality over quantity of growth. Total factor productivity (TFP) is identified as a key metric by President Xi Jinping to address this. However, TFP…

In Xinjiang, China, Deputy Secretary of the Communist Party Ma Xingrui emphasized the importance of maintaining a tough stance on counterterrorism efforts in the region. He stressed the need to eliminate terrorist threats early on and normalize counterterrorism work while also enhancing border security and societal risk control. Xinjiang, with a population of nearly 26 million, is home to various ethnic groups, including Uygurs and Kazakhs. China’s anti-extremism measures in the region have faced criticism for alleged human rights violations, although Beijing denies these claims and defends its policies as successful in managing ethnic conflicts and combating terrorism. The recent…

China has revamped its fair-competition review system to combat monopolies and enhance market access, signaling a commitment to boosting investor confidence amid economic challenges. The updated regulations, effective August 1, emphasize unrestricted market entry and exit, free flow of goods, and business operation. While exceptions are allowed in scenarios safeguarding national interests. The new rules aim to create a unified domestic market, encouraging efficient production and attracting global investment. They will be integrated into the fair-competition-review system and grant local governments authority to perform self-reviews. These measures align with Beijing’s efforts to tackle anticompetitive practices and promote fair competition in…

Mainland Chinese officials are taking steps to crack down on illegal money exchange activities in Macau, the renowned casino hub. Illegal money exchange, which includes unauthorized currency exchange and loan shark operations, has been on the rise and has led to various illegal activities such as violence, scams, and smuggling. This has significantly impacted social stability in the city. The authorities are planning to strengthen border checks, enhance coordination to capture fugitives, and conduct thorough investigations on a national level to dismantle the criminal syndicates involved in the illegal money exchange business. Beijing’s efforts are part of a broader campaign…

Renowned economist Stephen Roach has raised concerns about China’s economic growth, citing data from the IMF showing a decline in its global growth contribution. Roach, known for his pessimistic views on China, highlighted weakening total factor productivity and strained China-US relations as key factors. He drew parallels between China’s current challenges and Japan’s economic woes of the past. Despite the IMF’s recent growth forecast upgrade for China, Roach believes the country’s growth remains sluggish. Roach emphasized the need for China to shift support towards high-productivity sectors like technology companies to spur economic growth. Criticizing US tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles,…