China is about to introduce a law to promote families. But this is not only met with approval – because the bill includes new thumbscrews for parents. They are to be held accountable for their children's bad behavior. Not a very far-sighted plan for an emerging superpower.
By Ning Wang
Niels Peter Thomas heads the China business of Springer Nature, one of the world's leading academic publishers. He talks with China.Table about the state of Chinese research and its publishing practices. Thomas observes a leap in the general quality of publications by Chinese scientists. This is also bringing a boost in international renown, especially as more and more papers are made in collaboration with Western institutions. Thomas also explains whether artificial intelligence will soon replace human authors. The interview was conducted by Frank Sieren.
By Frank Sieren
Just in time for the UN Climate Change Conference, China is coming out of the woodwork: A key planning document lays out the national framework for phasing out coal and oil. In the coming years, this document will be the centerpiece of a clockwork of detailed sub-plans with which the leadership will once again turn China's economy upside down. It certainly offers surprises.
By Nico Beckert
Flexible displays have the potential to turn the tech world upside down. One of the most important developers is the Chinese start-up Royole. The Shenzhen-based company unveiled the first foldable smartphone for the mass market in 2018. Now, in cooperation with Airbus, the company wants to revolutionize the entertainment system in airplanes with ultra-thin screens.
By Frank Sieren
Magnesium is an important element in aluminum production. But as a result of its power crisis, China stopped production. In Europe, various manufacturers are now at risk of running out in the short term. And Europe receives 95 percent of its magnesium from China. There are no easy solutions.
By Christiane Kuehl
For years, the "Pillar of Shame" has stood in Hong Kong to commemorate the bloody suppression of the 1989 democracy movement in Beijing. With the introduction of the National Security Law, supporters of the Beijing regime finally see their chance to ban the memorial from the city. But its creator already has new plans for the artwork.
By Michael Radunski
Batteries are becoming more and more the heart of modern cars. Chinese manufacturers have successfully set multiple global standards for EV batteries. With the lithium iron phosphate battery (LFP) China's manufacturers show particular strength. Thanks in part to China's industrial policy.
By Frank Sieren
Shortly before the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow kicks off, the global energy crisis is hitting China particularly hard. The government is ramping up coal-fired power generation following blackouts across the country. At the same time, President Xi is announcing a massive program for solar and wind. How much longer is China able to rely on both – and still reach carbon neutrality by 2060? That will be one of the key questions of the climate conference.
By Christiane Kuehl
China's power shortages are causing new disruptions to international supply chains. The chip supply is also affected. Some companies are still utilizing their stock. But the crisis is getting worse by the day. This also has an impact on Christmas sales.
By Nico Beckert
The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU has surveyed the sentiment among Chinese companies in Europe: They are generally optimistic about trade – but with reservations. They fear a negative impact on their business activities due to planned EU regulations and are calling for fewer restrictions on 5G expansion.
By Amelie Richter
