China.Table

Feature

Auto Shanghai 2021: German carmakers fully committed to EVs

With around 1000 exhibitors, the "Auto Shanghai" is the largest car show in the world. German suppliers present their new electric cars in elaborate shows, with which they want to come out of the defensive. Many models have been specially designed or adapted for the Chinese market.

By Frank Sieren

5G with Huawei? A question of trust

For years, several federal ministries have been arguing about the content of the expanded IT security law. The bone of contention is the Chinese network supplier Huawei, which is currently facing espionage allegations from Holland. Now the coalition factions have changed the government's draft. But experts have doubts about the effectiveness of the law.

By Marcel Grzanna

German carmakers under pressure in China

In the world's largest growth market for EVs, German carmakers are still lagging behind despite great efforts. No German brand was among the ten best-selling models in 2020, while domestic manufacturers continued to extend their lead. This is because Chinese buyers have different purchasing priorities than Germans. Trends and market opportunities are on show at "Auto China", the world's largest car show with over 1000 exhibitors, which is taking place this week in Shanghai.

By Frank Sieren

Green finance – Beijing's green credentials are deceptive

On Thursday and Friday almost 40 heads of state and government will meet at the invitation of the US president for a virtual climate summit. Xi Jinping is also expected to attend. China is a global leader in the field of green finance, i.e. green investments to restructure the economy. The problem is that in the People's Republic green bonds may also be used for "clean coal", "clean oil and gas". This is hardly compatible with climate targets. However, the authorities are striving for reform.

By Nico Beckert

Macron's problems with the CAI

At the end of December 2020, France's head of state, Emmanuel Macron, was at the virtual table when the investment agreement between the EU and China was being finalized – he wants to wrap up the deal in early 2022, during France's presidency of the EU Council. However, according to experts, the plan could backfire. The agreement is increasingly unpopular among French MEPs – and the French presidential elections are coming up. China.Table today takes a look at relations between Paris and Beijing, and you can find more country profiles online.

By Amelie Richter

China's vaccination diplomacy – charity with ulterior motives

From Asia to Latin America to Europe, China's vaccine diplomacy is causing a stir worldwide. The People's Republic has now pledged half a billion vaccine doses to the countries of the world. But the help does not come for free. Sometimes it's about territorial claims, sometimes about 5G networks or the end of diplomatic ties. In Brazil, Beijing is pulling off a real masterstroke. That has repercussions for the entire continent.

By Michael Radunski

Brussels wants to protect itself against economic blackmail

Europe wants to defend itself against economic coercion by other countries. The EU Commission plans to present a new "anti-coercion instrument" by the end of the year. The discussion about the right instruments is starting now. Brussels' intention behind the mechanism: It is about deterrence – not least in the direction of China. What options does the EU Commission have at its disposal?

By Amelie Richter

Hunting criminals with artificial intelligence

China's judicial authorities want to integrate artificial intelligence into everyday legal practice in the future. This offers great opportunities for the growing "legal tech" market. Especially in the field of data analysis, its use is already advanced. But what makes the work of lawyers and judges easier also harbors risks.

By Frank Sieren

US senators plan 'Lex China'

The US Parliament takes the initiative for a more aggressive China policy. Among other things, the US government should take tougher action against intellectual property theft and protect Taiwan. At the same time, the US should rely on means that China already uses.

By Felix Lee

Pressure from Beijing: Alibaba places services on Tencent's platform

They are arch-rivals and seal off their platforms from each other: China's tech giants Alibaba and Tencent. But now Beijing is getting serious about the fight against digital monopolies. For better or worse, the two will have to cooperate. Alibaba made the first step and now applied for a mini-program on Tencent's mega app WeChat for its online store Taobao Deals. What does Beijing's action mean for the private platform economy in the People's Republic?

By Christiane Kuehl