Topic
china
Commodities India May Require Refiners to Triple Crude Oil Inventories After Lessons From China
Drawing lessons from China, India may ask domestic refiners to maintain significantly larger crude oil inventories as a safeguard against future supply shocks. The proposal, still at an early stage, would require refiners to hold stocks beyond the current 15-day operational buffer. If implemented, refiners could need to hold around 150 million barrels, requiring nearly Rs 60,000 crore in additional crude purchases and billions more in storage infrastructure.
Logistics AD Ports Group and Dajin Heavy Industry Partner to Advance Offshore Wind Logistics and Port Infrastructure
AD Ports Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with Chinese offshore wind equipment manufacturer and shipbuilder Dajin Heavy Industry to jointly explore offshore wind logistics, port infrastructure, and vessel investments. The partnership aims to develop pre-assembly hubs, transportation solutions for wind turbine components, and support offshore energy projects in Europe and other markets, reflecting AD Ports' broader expansion into renewable energy infrastructure.
Logistics Iolcos Returns to Newbuilding Market with Kamsarmax Pair in China, Adding Dry Bulk Capacity
Greek dry bulk owner Iolcos Hellenic Maritime Enterprises has placed an order for two 82,000 dwt kamsarmax bulk carriers at New Dayang Shipbuilding in China, with delivery scheduled for 2029. The order marks Iolcos' first newbuilding move since 2021 and adds to a wave of Greek newbuilding activity in the kamsarmax segment. The vessels will expand the company's current fleet of about 18 dry bulk vessels and provide additional capacity on major dry bulk trade lanes.
Logistics World's Largest Bulk Carrier to Container Ship Conversion Completed in China
The world’s largest bulk carrier-to-container ship conversion has been completed in China, transforming the 80,000 dwt Kuang Chi Delta into a 3,600 TEU containership. China Classification Society (CCS) inspected and certified the six-month refit at Zhoushan Xinya Shipbuilding & Repair. At least two more Diamond 53 supramax bulk carriers are slated for conversion to around 2,500 TEU, reflecting tight container market conditions.
Manufacturing Hengli on Track to Deliver 160 Ships in 2028, Becoming One of Shipping's Biggest Builders in Four Years
Chinese shipbuilder Hengli, which acquired the former STX Dalian yard in 2022, is projected to deliver at least 160 ships in 2028, according to SSY analysis. With a 395-firm order backlog of 12.2m cgt and a $1.9bn expansion, it has become one of the world's largest privately owned shipbuilders. The yard's rapid ascent reflects the scarcity of prompt newbuilding slots and strong local government support.
Technology Chinese Drivers Are Using Tiny Plastic Heads to Fool Tesla’s Autopilot Safeguards
Chinese Tesla owners are using miniature plastic heads of celebrities like Dwayne Johnson, priced $10-$40, to trick the car's in-cabin camera into thinking an attentive driver is present. The gadgets, sold on Taobao, Xianyu, and Douyin, allow drivers to bypass Tesla's distracted-driver monitoring while using autopilot features. This trend emerged after a Tesla software update in October activated camera-based monitoring in China.
Trade Shippers Say Renewed Tax on Chinese Ships Could Put Some U.S. Ag Producers Out of Business
Democratic Senators Mark Kelly and Elizabeth Warren are urging the Trump administration to reinstate port fees on Chinese cargo vessels, which were suspended until November 2026. The Agriculture Transportation Coalition warns the fees could put some U.S. agricultural producers out of business by dramatically increasing shipping costs and singling out exports for the harshest measures.
Logistics Fredriksen Doubles Down on Newcastlemaxes with Four More Chinese Newbuilds at Dajin Heavy Industry
John Fredriksen-backed Seatankers Management has exercised options for four additional newcastlemax bulk carriers at emerging Chinese shipbuilder Dajin Heavy Industry, bringing its orderbook to eight 210,000 dwt vessels. Brokers estimate the total programme value at nearly $600 million, with deliveries scheduled between 2028 and 2029. The move is part of a broader surge in newcastlemax contracting linked to expectations surrounding Guinea's Simandou iron ore project.
Trade Pakistan Eyes Higher Donkey Meat, Other Related Products Export to China
The Times of India published an article with the headline 'Pakistan eyes higher donkey meat, other related products export to China', but the body text did not contain any substantive information about trade volumes, agreements, or market access.
Trade China Rejects Indian Red Chilli Cargoes Over Pesticide Residues, Suspends Three Exporters
China has rejected at least three consignments of Indian dried red chillies and suspended three Indian exporters over traces of methamidophos, a pesticide residue. The move follows similar rejections of Indian rice and signals heightened scrutiny on food safety. India's chilli exports to China grew 31% in 2024-25 to 2.36 lakh tonnes, according to The Hindu Business Line.
Technology China beats Elon Musk's Neuralink to launch world's first commercial brain chip NEO
China has approved the world's first commercially available brain chip, NEO, developed by Tsinghua University and Neuracle Technology. The device, which is less invasive than Neuralink's N1, targets spinal cord injury patients. Elon Musk recently described such technology as 'Jesus-level'. The approval marks a milestone in brain-computer interface commercialization.
Commodities China's $11.4bn Three Gorges Lock Expansion to Double Cargo Capacity, Ease Yangt
China has begun construction of a massive $11.4bn new ship lock system at the Three Gorges Dam, expected to nearly double cargo handling capacity to 336m tonnes annually. The nine-year project will add a five-stage lock for 10,000 dwt vessels, addressing growing congestion as traffic exceeded original design assumptions.
Technology Google Sues Chinese Cybercrime Network Exploiting Gemini AI in Massive Fraud Cam
Google has filed a lawsuit against a Chinese cybercrime network called Outsider Enterprise for using its Gemini AI to perpetrate a massive fraud operation, creating fake Google, YouTube, and government websites. The company reports hundreds of thousands of victims and losses in the millions, while advocating for seven bipartisan bills to combat AI-driven scams.
Trade APEDA Releases SOP for Rice Exports to China After GMO Rejections
APEDA released a standard operating procedure (SOP) for rice exports to China following China's rejection of non-basmati consignments over alleged GMO contamination. The SOP, effective June 9, mandates testing by recognized labs and registration with DPPQS and GACC. India's non-basmati rice exports to China rose to 315,193 tonnes in 2025-26.
Technology China's 33,615-Drone Record Showcases Coordinated Tech for Logistics
China launched 33,615 drones simultaneously over Dujiangyan, Sichuan, setting three Guinness World Records for the largest drone display, most drones forming an aerial pattern, and largest mid-air LED mesh screen. The event, organized by Yufengzhe Technology, demonstrates large-scale coordination capabilities that have applications beyond entertainment, including logistics and mapping, relevant for international trade in drone technologies.
Technology OpenAI: fake China-linked accounts used ChatGPT to turn Americans against AI dat
OpenAI has banned accounts it says were part of two China-linked influence campaigns that used ChatGPT to generate social media content opposing AI data centers and US tariffs. The campaigns, named 'Data Center Bandwagon' and 'Tech and Tariffs,' failed to gain significant traction, but highlight the use of AI in foreign influence operations.
Technology The Great AI Irony: China Cracks Down on Western Models as US Firms Embrace Deep
Chinese authorities, led by the Ministry of State Security, are warning users against accessing US-based AI models, citing security risks and potential data breaches. Meanwhile, US companies continue to flock to cheaper Chinese alternatives like DeepSeek V4 Pro and Alibaba's Qwen 3.6, driven by cost advantages. Research reveals a thriving black market of API 'transfer stations' reselling access to models like Anthropic's Claude at a fraction of official prices.
Trade Democrats Push for Reinstatement of China Port Tax
Democrats in Congress are advocating for the reinstatement of a port tax on Chinese ships, which was suspended in May. The tax, amounting to $3.2 billion annually, aims to protect the U.S. shipbuilding industry.
Regulations & Compliance India Extends Anti-Dumping Duty on Aluminium Foil Imports
The Indian government has extended the anti-dumping duty on aluminium foil imports from China and three other nations until December 15, 2026. This decision follows requests from companies like Hindalco Industries and SRF Altech.
Technology China's Wind-Powered Underwater Data Center: A Green Milestone
China has launched the world's first wind-powered underwater data center off the coast of Shanghai. This initiative, a collaboration between HiCloud Technology and China Communications Construction, aims to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.
Logistics Chinese Ports Lead Global Efficiency Rankings
Chinese ports, led by Fuzhou, dominate the latest Container Port Performance Index, highlighting their efficiency in global logistics. The report underscores the role of ports in managing supply chain disruptions.
Trade China's Mineral Framework Sparks Importer Concerns
China's new mineral resource framework, effective June 15, 2026, raises concerns among Indian importers due to its potential impact on global supply chains. The policy, approved by Premier Li Qiang, aims to stabilize supply but may increase price volatility.
Trade China's Exports Surge 19.4% in May on Tech and EV Demand
China's exports increased by 19.4% in May, fueled by strong demand for semiconductors and electric vehicles. Exports to the US surged over 35%, marking significant growth.
Trade EU Unveils Strategy to Reduce US and Chinese Tech Dependence
The European Commission has introduced a Tech Sovereignty Package to decrease reliance on US and Chinese technology. This includes the EU Chips Act 2.0, Cloud and AI Development Act, and Open Source Software Strategy. CISPE expresses concerns over potential loopholes.
Technology Huawei's Bold AI Chip Strategy Challenges Industry Norms
Huawei has announced an aggressive annual upgrade cycle for its AI chips, aiming to double computing power each year. This strategy, revealed at the Huawei Cloud INSPIRE Innovators Conference, positions Huawei as a formidable competitor to Nvidia, leveraging its extensive cloud infrastructure and partnerships in intelligent driving.
Logistics Pingtan Minghui Ventures into Tanker Market with New Orders
Pingtan Minghui Shipping, traditionally a dry bulk carrier, has ordered two LR2 tankers, marking its entry into the tanker sector. The vessels, built by Taizhou JianXing Heavy Industry, are set for delivery in 2028.
Logistics Fujian Shipping Expands Fleet with Heavylift Newbuilds
Fujian Shipping Group has ordered four new multipurpose heavylift vessels from Nantong Xiangyu Shipbuilding. This move aims to enhance their capacity in the growing project cargo market. The vessels will feature significant lifting capabilities and are part of a broader fleet renewal strategy.
Regulations & Compliance China Tightens Controls on Micro Drama Content
Effective June 2026, China's National Radio and Television Administration enforces stricter content regulations on micro dramas, targeting violence and misogyny. This move aims to promote healthier social norms.
Trade AI and Automation: Transforming Global Supply Chains
AI and automation are reshaping global supply chains by improving efficiency and reducing costs. This article explores the technologies driving these changes and their impact on international trade.
Supply Chain India's Short Window Amid China's Supply Chain Shift
India has a limited opportunity to attract companies diversifying from China, according to Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran. The geopolitical landscape and China's trade dominance pose challenges and opportunities for India's trade strategy.
Logistics Pleiades Expands Fleet with New MR Tanker Order in China
Greek owner Pleiades Shipping has placed an order for two MR tankers at Guangzhou Shipyard International, with deliveries set for late 2028. This move is part of a broader trend in the MR sector, with significant global orders impacting fleet capacity.
Business India to Surpass China in Global GDP Share by 2060
India is expected to surpass China in global GDP share by 2060, according to a report by the World Inequality Lab. The report highlights demographic shifts and economic trends that will reshape the global economic landscape.
Logistics Chinese Yard Unveils Nuclear-Powered Logistics Hub Concept
Jiangnan Shipyard has introduced a concept for a nuclear-powered floating logistics hub, aiming to transform maritime transport. This innovative hub would serve as a container transshipment terminal and energy production center, supporting the decarbonization of global shipping.
Trade Putin Projects $100bn Trade with India, Lauds Modi
Russian President Vladimir Putin anticipates bilateral trade with India to reach $100 billion, emphasizing energy and investment cooperation. He praised India's economic growth under PM Modi's leadership.
Commodities Gold Prices Rise as Central Banks Increase Purchases
In April, central banks, particularly in Poland and China, increased their gold purchases, reversing the net selling trend from March. This shift has influenced gold prices, with significant purchases also noted from the Czech Republic.
Logistics Jinhui's Strategic Fleet Renewal with Newbuild Orders
Jinhui Shipping and Transportation has ordered two new dry bulk vessels from Jiangmen Nanyang Ship Engineering in China, valued at $68.3 million. This move aligns with Jinhui's strategy to modernize its fleet by replacing older vessels.
Logistics COSCO Expands LNG Fleet with $953m Order at Jiangnan
COSCO Shipping Energy has placed a $953 million order for four LNG carriers at Jiangnan Shipyard, enhancing its LNG fleet. The vessels, scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2030, are expected to be chartered by Shell.
Trade China's New Tech Regulations Impact India Trade
China's new regulations, effective July 1, 2026, may delay India's tech imports in electronics and automobiles. The rules empower China to scrutinize outbound tech transfers, impacting bilateral trade valued at $155 billion in 2025.
Manufacturing China's Manufacturing PMI Dips: A Cause for Concern?
China's manufacturing PMI fell to 50.0% in May, indicating a potential slowdown in industrial activity. Large enterprises showed resilience with a PMI of 51.1%, while medium and small enterprises faced contraction. Rising raw material costs due to geopolitical tensions are impacting production.
Trade China Rejects Indian Rice Over Alleged GMO Presence
China has rejected multiple consignments of Indian non-basmati rice, alleging the presence of GMOs, despite India's assertion that no GM rice is grown in the country. This ongoing issue has led to significant trade tensions between the two nations.
Trade China and Pakistan Strengthen Trade Ties
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Trade Quad Unveils $20B Minerals Plan, Criticizes Iran's Toll
The Quad nations have launched a $20 billion critical minerals framework to counter China's dominance in the sector. They also criticized Iran's new shipping tolls in the Strait of Hormuz.