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China

New York Times — Business

China's Retail Sales Decline in May 2026

Retail sales in China fell by 0.6 percent in May 2026 compared to the same month in 2025, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics. The announcement was made on June 16, 2026.

Washington Examiner

Cubans in US lose key online aid portal as operations cease

Envioscuba.com, a portal for sending aid to Cuba from the U.S., has ceased operations due to U.S. sanctions. The site was associated with GAESA, a military-run conglomerate controlling much of Cuba's economy. Experts indicate that this closure is part of a larger trend affecting similar services.

Washington Examiner

Taiwan's Opposition Leader Discusses Relations with China During U.S. Visit

Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of Taiwan's Kuomintang party, discussed her recent U.S. visit and the need for dialogue with China to improve cross-strait relations. She characterized her meeting with Xi Jinping as positive and emphasized the importance of recognizing a shared Chinese identity. Public opinion in Taiwan remains divided on her approach, with significant opposition to her meeting with Xi.

Vox

China's Reduced Oil Imports Impact Global Prices

Gas prices in the U.S. have risen by about one dollar compared to last year, despite predictions of a more significant increase due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. China's oil imports have decreased sharply, leading to lower global oil prices, although the reasons for this reduction remain unclear. Analysts suggest that China's strategy may have wider implications for its influence in the global economy.

New York Times — Business

Chinese Investors Expected to be Excluded from SpaceX I.P.O.

Chinese investors are likely to be barred from participating in the SpaceX initial public offering, mirroring restrictions seen with OpenAI's I.P.O. This situation is influenced by current geopolitical tensions and regulatory issues between the U.S. and China.

New York Times — Business

Chinese Companies Lead in Robot Parts Production

Chinese companies are dominating the production of robot parts, benefiting from the country's advancements in the electric vehicle industry. This development presents challenges for manufacturers in other countries looking to compete in the robotics market.

The Hill

Brazil's Economic Dependence on China Increases

Brazil's President Lula is attempting to lessen the country's dependence on the US dollar and the United States, leading to an increased reliance on China. This change in economic policy has implications for Brazil's trade relationships.

NPR — Top Stories

China and North Korea Strengthen Diplomatic Ties Amid Nuclear Developments

On June 10, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held a meeting in Pyongyang. The meeting highlights North Korea's efforts to establish itself as a nuclear power, while Xi has not publicly addressed the issue of North Korea's nuclear capabilities.

Washington Examiner

Pentagon classifies BYD as a state actor, affecting future contracts

The Pentagon has classified BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, as a state actor, which will hinder its ability to obtain contracts with the U.S. government. This decision is part of a broader concern regarding Chinese companies' influence in the U.S. market, particularly as BYD has recently become the leading global electric vehicle manufacturer. American automakers are responding with competitive strategies amid fears of losing market share.

cbsnews.com

Pentagon Updates List of Chinese Companies Restricted from U.S. Defense Contracts

The Pentagon has updated its list of Chinese companies barred from U.S. defense contracts, adding firms like Alibaba, BYD, and Baidu. The list now includes 188 entities, reflecting concerns about their connections to the Chinese military. The Chinese Embassy and the companies involved have denied any military affiliations and criticized the U.S. actions.