Timely reports on issues and events from across China. Drawing on a vast range of sources, these succinct articles provide insights into the significance of each issue in a wider context.

NEWS

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‘Raising Lobsters’: How OpenClaw Became China’s Hottest AI

The agent, which operates as an autonomous personal manager rather than a query-and-response platform, represents a key advance in the field. But barriers to entry and security risks are steep.

Li Xin

Two Sessions: China Boosts Science and Tech Spending

The government simultaneously cut spending on business trips and meetings to free up funds for developing key sectors.

Chen Yiru

Pop Mart Sues Chinese 3D Printer Company Over Labubu Copies

Users downloaded templates online to print the hugely popular collectible toys at home for a fraction of the retail price.

Jiang Xinyi

Two Sessions: China Targets 5% Growth, 12 Million Jobs in 2026

Opening China’s annual policy meetings, Premier Li Qiang pledged wider market access and progress on new trade agreements.

Fan Yiying

Can China Repeat Its Winter Paralympic Success Abroad?

After a record-breaking performance in Beijing, China returns to the Milano-Cortina Paralympics with 70 athletes and titles to defend.

Li Pasha

Young Chinese Are Asking AI for Fashion Advice, and Going Viral

Users are asking the Doubao chatbot for outfit advice in real time, then filming themselves following its bizarre suggestions.

Shanghai Opens First Criminal Case Against Video Game Leaks

One suspect told investigators he thought deleting the videos after warnings would avoid consequences.

China Mandates 15-minute Breaks Between School Classes

The new policy comes amid concerns that existing breaks were not long enough for students’ health.

China’s Surprise New Hit Is a Dating Show for Middle-Aged Singles

Since its December premier, ‘Forever by Your Side’ has exploded in popularity. Viewers say it’s changing how they see aging.

Han Minge

To Boost Take-Out Safety, China Tightens Rules on Ghost Kitchens

Vendors operating only as take-out platforms must now disclose their status or face heavy fines.