CiCM 22nd April 2025

NEWS IN CHINA

China Responds to U.S. Sanctions with Reciprocal Measures: China has announced reciprocal sanctions in accordance with its Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law, following recent U.S. measures targeting officials from the Chinese central government and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). The decision, conveyed by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun, is in response to what China views as external actions concerning Hong Kong-related matters. The spokesperson reiterated that Hong Kong affairs fall within the purview of China's internal governance and highlighted the importance of respecting the principles of international law and non-interference in sovereign matters. The U.S. sanctions, involving six officials, were viewed by Beijing as inconsistent with established norms of international engagement. China reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and governance over Hong Kong and emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue and mutual respect in international relations.
Komeito Chief's Visit Highlights Continued China-Japan Diplomatic Engagement: Tetsuo Saito, leader of Japan’s Komeito Party, is set to embark on a three-day visit to China beginning Tuesday, during which he will deliver a letter from Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to the Chinese leadership. The visit, reported by Japanese media, reflects Tokyo’s efforts to maintain constructive dialogue with Beijing, its largest trading partner, while also navigating trade discussions with Washington. This marks the first visit by a Komeito leader since 2023. Analysts view the visit as a demonstration of goodwill, aimed at enhancing coordination on shared global challenges and fostering economic ties. China’s Foreign Ministry welcomed the visit, noting the positive trajectory in recent bilateral engagements.
Iranian Foreign Minister to Visit China for Bilateral and Regional Consultations: At the invitation of a Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi will visit China on April 23, as announced by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun. Both sides are expected to hold in-depth discussions on bilateral relations and international and regional matters of shared interest. This visit is anticipated to further implement the consensus reached by the two countries’ leaders, enhance political mutual trust, expand practical cooperation, and jointly uphold the principles of multilateralism, contributing to regional and global stability.
China Updates Undergraduate Program Catalogue to Align with Strategic and Technological Priorities: China's Ministry of Education has unveiled an updated undergraduate program catalogue, adding 29 new majors aligned with national strategies, technological advancements, and evolving market demands. The additions include disciplines such as artificial intelligence education, carbon neutrality science, intelligent molecular engineering, and low-altitude economy, among others. These programs aim to foster talent development in sectors critical to innovation and sustainable growth. A green channel mechanism has been introduced to fast-track approval for strategically significant programs. For instance, six universities including Beihang University will offer a new low-altitude technology and engineering major. The revised catalogue now encompasses 93 disciplinary categories and 845 majors, covering 62,800 program distribution points across higher education institutions nationwide.
JD.com Introduces Rider-Friendly Measures in Food Delivery Expansion: JD.com has announced a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing working conditions for food delivery riders as part of its recent entry into China’s competitive food delivery market. In a public letter, the company outlined new measures to support delivery personnel, including increasing its full-time rider hiring quota from 50,000 to 100,000 within three months, and offering guaranteed order volumes to those affected by platform restrictions. JD.com emphasized its policy of not enforcing exclusivity on part-time riders and committed to providing alternative employment opportunities, such as courier and cleaning roles, to its partners. A key customer-centric move includes offering free orders if delivery times exceed 20 minutes. These initiatives are seen as part of JD.com’s broader strategy to position itself as a responsible and innovative player in the evolving food delivery landscape.
China Reports 185,000 Discipline in Q1 2025 Anti-Corruption Drive: In the first quarter of 2025, China's discipline inspection and supervisory authorities addressed 185,000 cases, reflecting sustained efforts to enhance accountability and promote clean governance. Among those disciplined were 14 officials at the provincial or ministerial level, alongside numerous individuals from township, enterprise, and rural sectors. Over 834,000 complaints and reports were received, with 231,000 classified as whistleblower submissions. Authorities reviewed 502,000 leads and launched 220,000 investigations. The "four forms" of disciplinary measures were applied to 375,000 individuals, with nearly half receiving educational or corrective guidance under the first form. The CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and the National Supervisory Commission emphasized the dual focus on addressing both the receipt and offering of bribes, investigating over 7,000 cases.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHATTER IN CHINA

DHgate Sees Surge in U.S. Popularity Amid Pre-Tariff Shopping Trend: Chinese wholesale platform DHgate has recently witnessed a significant surge in popularity among U.S. shoppers, driven by viral TikTok videos showcasing low-cost alternatives to popular consumer goods. Previously focused on connecting Chinese manufacturers with global retailers, DHgate is now attracting a growing number of direct consumers seeking value ahead of upcoming changes to U.S. import tariff policies. The platform rose swiftly in app rankings, reflecting a rise in interest as users looked to stock up before new duties take effect on May 2. In response, DHgate launched a “Tariff Escort Plan” with subsidies and bulk-buying incentives. While the growth has opened new avenues, some sellers have expressed concerns about sustaining profitability, particularly due to platform fees. The development signals a broader shift in global consumer behavior and highlights evolving dynamics in cross-border e-commerce.

INDIA WATCH

Article on Chinese Media Highlights Vance’s Visit to India and Strengthening U.S.- India Bilateral Engagement: U.S. Vice President Vance began a four-day official visit to India on April 21, accompanied by his family and senior officials, marking his first trip to the country. His visit, which includes meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and cultural engagements, comes at a pivotal time for U.S.-India trade relations. Discussions are expected to explore deepening cooperation, particularly in defense, technology, and commerce, while advancing a shared vision of a fair and balanced trade partnership. This visit positioned India as an important strategic partner for the U.S., especially as both sides are finding greater convergance in the global economic dynamics. In recent months, trade talks have gained momentum, with India seeking to diversify its export opportunities and the U.S. emphasizing reciprocal access in sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing. The article noted that while no agreements were expected during this visit, it represented a continuation of high-level engagements between both countries.

Prepared By

Cherukuri Venkata Subramanya Sai Narayana

Cherukuri Venkata Subramanya Sai Narayana holds a Master’s degree in Police and Security Studies from the School of Police Science and Security Studies, National Forensic Science University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India. He has a strong academic interest in conflict and security studies, with a particular focus on maritime security. During his postgraduate studies, he authored a thesis on India’s Maritime Security: Dealing with Alliances and Conflicts in the Indian Ocean Region. He remains actively engaged in analyzing global events, applying his knowledge and expertise to assess geopolitical developments with a critical perspective.