China’s leadership has cultivated and refined this lever of power for decades. Why did it choose to deploy it precisely this year?
By Angela Köckritz
Siemens Mobility has secured a significant contract in Vietnam, beating out competitors from across Asia. The deal could open the door to closer economic ties between Germany and the fast-growing Southeast Asian market.
By Horand Knaup
The United States has approved an arms package for Taiwan worth USD 11.1 billion. Militarily, it strengthens deterrence against China; politically, however, it risks stalling in Taiwan’s parliament – and could even undermine international support.
By David Demes
After strong price gains this year, China’s stock markets are consolidating. Tech stocks continue to trade at elevated valuations, as seen most recently in the IPO of chip developer MetaX. Analysts expect more moderate gains in 2026.
By Jörn Petring
Germany is supporting Vietnam’s green economic transition. Through public financing, Berlin is laying the groundwork for sustainable development. China, meanwhile, is also benefiting from Germany’s engagement.
By Marcel Grzanna
Working with state-owned manufacturers, Huawei is once again launching two new car brands. The strategy of positioning itself as a technology provider rather than a vehicle producer appears to be working.
By Jörn Petring
The Chinese lifestyle chain Miniso is rapidly expanding across Europe, using IP collaborations with well-known brands and a retail concept that capitalizes on vacant storefronts in city centers.
By Fabian Peltsch
The conviction of Hong Kong media entrepreneur and opposition figure Jimmy Lai was not unexpected. Nevertheless, the judges are facing international criticism.
By Jörn Petring, Fabian Peltsch and Marcel Grzanna
Education about sexuality, consent and prevention is still in its infancy in China. Young people – and women in particular – are slowly breaking with long-standing taboos. A Chinese-language tour through Berlin’s sex-positive scene offers a snapshot of where the debate currently stands.
By Fabian Peltsch
Donald Trump wants to allow Nvidia to sell the advanced AI chip H200 to China. The government in Beijing prefers to support the development of its own AI chip industry. The approach of Chinese tech companies and universities is apparently more pragmatic.
By Jörn Petring
