China (English)

Beijing cuts exports of rare earths

Beijing wants to regulate the import and export of rare earths even more strictly. This is bad news for the EU, which imports almost 98 percent of its requirements of these metals from China. For years, China has systematically bought the market dry and hoarded the raw materials. The EU should have acted long ago but underestimated the issue. Now Brussels is frantically looking for alternatives.

By Frank Sieren

'996' or eight-hour day: struggle over working hours

Hardly any other internet platform has grown as fast in China as the online retailer Pinduoduo. But the rapid growth also has its price. The death of two employees within a few weeks has reignited the debate in China about long working hours and overwork at tech companies.

By Redaktion Table

Biden, Xi and the evolution of cooperation

The only way to prevent Sino-American relations from deteriorating further is for either US President Joe Biden or Chinese President Xi Jinping to offer a goodwill gesture, and then respond in kind to the other’s subsequent moves. And Xi appears better positioned to take the initiative.

By Antje Sirleschtov

CGTN threatened with TV broadcasting stop in Germany

The Chinese state broadcaster CGTN is under pressure in Germany following its license revocation in the UK. The local state media authorities have initiated a review of the broadcasting license. Cable operator Vodafone is suspending CGTN's transmission as a precaution.

By Marcel Grzanna

Energy supplier SGCC files complaint with EU Commission

By Amelie Richter

When Xi and Biden talk: new tone, old conflicts

Shortly before the New Year's celebrations, US President Joe Biden and China's President Xi Jinping picked up the phone. It became evident that the tone has become civil once again. However, both sides appear to remain firm on the issues. Biden's concept of "extreme competition" may indeed prove to be accurate.

By Christiane Kuehl

Huang Kunming

By Redaktion Table

Behind the scenes of power: Xi's New Year's speech

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New Year's dessert

By Ning Wang

Travel for foreigners: virtually impossible

The strict travel restrictions are currently one of the biggest problems for German companies in China. It is difficult for new employees and their families to obtain visas. Expats are de facto unable to leave the country. There is little prospect of the situation changing any time soon – not least because the National People's Congress will meet in Beijing in March.

By Christiane Kuehl