Humanoid robots are creating quite a buzz in the tech space. A Chinese company is developing unbelievably lifelike robots capable of mimicking human emotions. Watch this story for more details.

Robots becoming more human than ever | Gravitas

A China Eastern Airlines flight from Shanghai to Jinan faced a delay on Monday (June 10) after a passenger's hidden sugar glider escaped within the cabin.&nbsp;

The small sugar glider – resembling a flying squirrel – got loose on a China Eastern Airlines flight, hiding in the cabin and ultimately forcing passengers to temporarily disembark the plane.

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According to Shanghai Police International Airport Branch, “On a flight from Shanghai to Jinan on June 10, 2024, a passenger surnamed Guo (female, 34 years old) violated the regulations and took a pet sugar glider on board the plane.”

“The pet escaped in the cabin and was captured by other passengers,” the statement read.

The incident was reported on flight MU5599 from Shanghai’s Hongqiao International Airport.&nbsp;

Videos posted on social media show&nbsp;a flight attendant kneeling on the ground and looking for the furry escapee.

The situation escalated as all passengers had to disembark and wait at the terminal for the critter's capture. Social media was abuzz with videos of frustrated passengers negotiating with airline staff.

The police said the flight had been delayed “due to safety issues” and that the miniature possum’s owner had been taken into custody.

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“Currently, Guo has been placed under administrative detention by the police in accordance with the law for her illegal behavior of disrupting order on public transportation,” the police statement said.

The flight departed just over an hour after its scheduled time, arriving at Ji’nan’s Yaoqiang Airport shortly before midnight, 62 minutes after it had originally been due to land.

According to local media, the airline has not yet offered compensation or issued an apology to passengers.

(With inputs from agencies)

A China Eastern Airlines flight from Shanghai to Jinan faced a delay on Monday (June 10) after a passenger's hidden sugar glider escaped within the cabin. The small sugar glider – resembling a flying squirrel – got loose on a China Eastern Airlines flight, hiding in the cabin and ultimately forcing passengers to temporarily disembark the plane.

A China Eastern Airlines flight from Shanghai to Jinan faced a delay on Monday (June 10) after a passenger's hidden sugar glider escaped within the cabin. The small sugar glider – resembling a flying squirrel – got loose on a China Eastern Airlines flight, hiding in the cabin and ultimately forcing passengers to temporarily disembark the plane. Also read: Air India gets show cause notice for 20-hour flight delay According to Shanghai Police International Airport Branch, “On a flight from Shanghai to Jinan on June 10, 2024, a passenger surnamed Guo (female, 34 years old) violated the regulations and took a pet sugar glider on board the plane.” “The pet escaped in the cabin and was captured by other passengers,” the statement read. The incident was reported on flight MU5599 from Shanghai’s Hongqiao International Airport. Videos posted on social media show a flight attendant kneeling on the ground and looking for the furry escapee. The situation escalated as all passengers had to disembark and wait at the terminal for the critter's capture. Social media was abuzz with videos of frustrated passengers negotiating with airline staff. The police said the flight had been delayed “due to safety issues” and that the miniature possum’s owner had been taken into custody. Also read: India: Watch - Passenger slaps IndiGo pilot announcing flight delay “Currently, Guo has been placed under administrative detention by the police in accordance with the law for her illegal behavior of disrupting order on public transportation,” the police statement said. The flight departed just over an hour after its scheduled time, arriving at Ji’nan’s Yaoqiang Airport shortly before midnight, 62 minutes after it had originally been due to land. According to local media, the airline has not yet offered compensation or issued an apology to passengers. (With inputs from agencies)

Sugar glider sneaks out from hand baggage on Chinese flight causing chaos

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Hong Kong, the special administrative region of China, has asked its residents to “smile more” in order to attract tourists.

The city is still struggling to revive its thriving tourism industry post-pandemic and after the Beijing-influenced crackdown on city’s civil liberties.

The best plan that authorities come up with is: be less rude and smile more.

The Hong Kong government on June 3 launched a campaign titled “Let’s Go the Extra Mile”, which aims to promote hospitality and boost the city’s position as a top tourist destination, according to reports by Hong Kong media outlets.

Speaking at a press conference on June 4, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee&nbsp;urged residents to be more courteous and helpful, to smile more, and to “go the extra mile to promote Hong Kong’s hospitality”.

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The tourism secretary Kevin Yeung said there are a “handful of black sheep that tarnishes our image."

Unfriendly service staff at Hong Kong restaurants, once viewed as a charming hallmark of the city, has increasingly been described as a turn-off for tourists, as per a survey.

Rudeness topped the list of complaints about the city’s taxi industry.

On Monday, Yeung announced a multi-department effort to reverse this reputation.

The Education Bureau will promote programmes to teach courtesy to students, while the Home Affairs Department will organise community activities to encourage friendliness, with potential reward schemes for “good performance.”&nbsp;

Yeung also announced that authorities will share a series of video clips urging residents to “go the extra mile” to promote the city’s hospitality and to volunteer at visitor centres.

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Hong Kong saw a significant revival in tourist arrival numbers since travel resumed in 2023 after the pandemic, as per South China Morning Post.

There were 11.23 million visitor arrivals in the first quarter of 2024, a 154 per cent increase year on year.

Hong Kong had 34 million visitors in 2023, 55.9 million in 2019 and 65.1 million in 2018.

This is not the first time that Hong Kong has tried to solve its perceived “rudeness” attitude.

Similar politeness campaigns were launched in the 1990s and early 2000s as well.

But the Covid-19 severely impacted the city’s charm to attract tourists, which also coincided with Hong Kong’s shifting political landscape, when pro-democracy protests of 2019 were quashed by Beijing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong, the special administrative region of China, has asked its residents to “smile more” in order to attract tourists. The city is still struggling to revive its thriving tourism industry post-pandemic and after the Beijing-influenced crackdown on city’s civil liberties.

Hong Kong, the special administrative region of China, has asked its residents to “smile more” in order to attract tourists. The city is still struggling to revive its thriving tourism industry post-pandemic and after the Beijing-influenced crackdown on city’s civil liberties. The best plan that authorities come up with is: be less rude and smile more. The Hong Kong government on June 3 launched a campaign titled “Let’s Go the Extra Mile”, which aims to promote hospitality and boost the city’s position as a top tourist destination, according to reports by Hong Kong media outlets. Speaking at a press conference on June 4, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee urged residents to be more courteous and helpful, to smile more, and to “go the extra mile to promote Hong Kong’s hospitality”. Also Read | UK police charge man who hurled objects at British right-wing leader Nigel Farage The tourism secretary Kevin Yeung said there are a “handful of black sheep that tarnishes our image." Unfriendly service staff at Hong Kong restaurants, once viewed as a charming hallmark of the city, has increasingly been described as a turn-off for tourists, as per a survey. Rudeness topped the list of complaints about the city’s taxi industry. On Monday, Yeung announced a multi-department effort to reverse this reputation. The Education Bureau will promote programmes to teach courtesy to students, while the Home Affairs Department will organise community activities to encourage friendliness, with potential reward schemes for “good performance.” Yeung also announced that authorities will share a series of video clips urging residents to “go the extra mile” to promote the city’s hospitality and to volunteer at visitor centres. Also Read | Elon Musk had sex with former SpaceX intern, asked employee to have his babies: Report Hong Kong saw a significant revival in tourist arrival numbers since travel resumed in 2023 after the pandemic, as per South China Morning Post. There were 11.23 million visitor arrivals in the first quarter of 2024, a 154 per cent increase year on year. Hong Kong had 34 million visitors in 2023, 55.9 million in 2019 and 65.1 million in 2018. This is not the first time that Hong Kong has tried to solve its perceived “rudeness” attitude. Similar politeness campaigns were launched in the 1990s and early 2000s as well. But the Covid-19 severely impacted the city’s charm to attract tourists, which also coincided with Hong Kong’s shifting political landscape, when pro-democracy protests of 2019 were quashed by Beijing. (With inputs from agencies)

'Go Extra Mile' with 'more smile' is what Hong Kong is advising its residents in order to revive tourism

China's next-generation robots are creating a buzz! A Chinese company is developing unbelievably lifelike machines capable of replicating emotions.

In Dalian's Ex-Robots factory, engineers are working on the next generation of humanoid robots. This time, the focus is on instilling them with lifelike facial expressions and emotions.

<img alt="Humanoid robot factory" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="892aa777-1f56-4801-8aa0-64cc273afa90" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2846%29_1.png" />

Imagine an Ex-Robots worker mimicking expressions - a smile, a tongue thrust out.&nbsp; A humanoid robot mimics these movements without a flaw, powered by tiny motors embedded throughout its head.&nbsp;

Moreover, artificial intelligence is allowing these robots to not just mimic, but potentially even understand and express emotions.

<img alt="Humanoid robot factory" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="534bc477-e2c3-4bf8-b922-b258f8d10c11" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2848%29_3.png" />

&nbsp;According to the developers, humanoid robots are the most multifaceted class of robotic products. As per the company, it takes from two weeks to a month to create one humanoid robot.

While the starting price of $200,000 puts them in a high-end category,&nbsp;realistic robots are currently attracting museum visitors.

<img alt="Humanoid robot factory" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="db5031b5-2fd4-4ee1-95ab-0a0663457d85" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2849%29_1.png" />

The company envision a future where these robots play a significant role in several fields, including healthcare, education, and beyond.

“Psychological counselling and health are certainly future application scenarios. We are currently conducting related research, such as auxiliary treatment and preliminary screening for emotional and psychological disorders, said CEO of Ex-Robots, Li Boyang.

<img alt="Humanoid robot factory" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c82d87da-b7fe-4307-a910-021bd1a8eaf0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2850%29_2.png" />

Humanoid robots are believed to be the future of human-machine collaboration. We could see robots in various roles from being our companion to caretakers and educators.

But the question remains... Will these humanoid robots be able to effectively replicate human capabilities?

<img alt="robot factory" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13b3e495-52ce-4161-ada2-dc481c40e2b3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2852%29.png" />

(With inputs from agencies)

China's next-generation robots are creating a buzz! A Chinese company is developing unbelievably lifelike machines capable of replicating emotions. In Dalian's Ex-Robots factory, engineers are working on the next generation of humanoid robots.

China's next-generation robots are creating a buzz! A Chinese company is developing unbelievably lifelike machines capable of replicating emotions. In Dalian's Ex-Robots factory, engineers are working on the next generation of humanoid robots. This time, the focus is on instilling them with lifelike facial expressions and emotions. Imagine an Ex-Robots worker mimicking expressions - a smile, a tongue thrust out. A humanoid robot mimics these movements without a flaw, powered by tiny motors embedded throughout its head. Moreover, artificial intelligence is allowing these robots to not just mimic, but potentially even understand and express emotions. According to the developers, humanoid robots are the most multifaceted class of robotic products. As per the company, it takes from two weeks to a month to create one humanoid robot. While the starting price of $200,000 puts them in a high-end category, realistic robots are currently attracting museum visitors. The company envision a future where these robots play a significant role in several fields, including healthcare, education, and beyond. “Psychological counselling and health are certainly future application scenarios. We are currently conducting related research, such as auxiliary treatment and preliminary screening for emotional and psychological disorders, said CEO of Ex-Robots, Li Boyang. Humanoid robots are believed to be the future of human-machine collaboration. We could see robots in various roles from being our companion to caretakers and educators. But the question remains... Will these humanoid robots be able to effectively replicate human capabilities? (With inputs from agencies)

PHOTOS: Inside China's incredible humanoid robot factory

Seen as a direct response to China's recent renaming of 30 places in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh.The decision signals a robust strategy by the newly elected nda government, to counter Beijing's assertive narratives. Amb Anil Trigunayat, former Indian Diplomat and distinguished fellow, of Vivekananda International Foundation joins us to discuss.

India to unveil new names for locations in Tibet

China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group (0708.HK) is facing significant operational challenges, with local administrative bodies demanding repayment of 1.9 billion yuan (USD 261.91 million) in subsidies. This development threatens the company's assets, including land and equipment, as the company grapples with increasing financial pressures.

Subsidy repayment demand

In a letter sent last month, local administrative authorities demanded that Evergrande Automotive Holdings terminate several investment cooperation agreements made since April 29, 2019. This letter serves as a formal demand for the repayment of substantial subsidies provided to the company. The potential enforcement of this demand could lead to the compulsory resumption of land associated with the company's plants, along with the seizure of buildings and equipment used to repay the subsidies.

The company's statement on Tuesday highlighted the gravity of the situation: "If the decision by the relevant local administrative authority is implemented, it would result in the Group being exposed to the risks of compulsory resumption of land of the relevant plants, and the buildings and equipment thereon being used for repayment of the said incentives and subsidies."

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Operational halt and rectification orders

Adding to the company's woes, Evergrande New Energy Vehicle (Tianjin) Co, another subsidiary, received a notice instructing it to address three specific issues and to cease the production and sale of new energy passenger vehicles. This halt in operations further compounds the difficulties faced by Evergrande's EV unit as it strives to maintain its position in the market.

The group has expressed its intent to submit the necessary appeal and rectification materials to the authorities within the specified time frame, in hopes of mitigating the impact of these orders. However, the outcome remains uncertain, and the potential repercussions on the company's operations are significant.

Market reaction

The market reacted sharply to the news, with shares of China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group plunging 27% on Wednesday. This dramatic drop reflects investor concerns about the company's ability to navigate the financial and operational challenges it faces.

The broader context of Evergrande's financial struggles, including the parent company's well-publicised debt issues, has cast a long shadow over its subsidiaries. The demand for subsidy repayment adds another layer of complexity to an already precarious situation.

Strategic and financial implications

The demands from local administrative bodies not only threaten Evergrande's physical assets but also highlight the broader challenges facing the company. The potential loss of key assets such as land and equipment could severely impact the company's ability to continue its operations and fulfil its strategic objectives.

Moreover, the halt in production and sales ordered for Evergrande New Energy Vehicle (Tianjin) Co signifies regulatory and operational hurdles that need to be addressed urgently. The company's ability to comply with these rectification orders and resume normal operations will be critical in determining its future trajectory.

The road ahead

Evergrande's response to these challenges will be closely watched by investors, regulators, and industry stakeholders. The company's ability to navigate the demands for subsidy repayment, address regulatory concerns, and stabilise its operations will be crucial in shaping its future.

The situation underscores the broader financial and operational risks associated with the rapid expansion of the electric vehicle sector in China. As companies like Evergrande strive to capitalise on the growing demand for new energy vehicles, they must also contend with stringent regulatory requirements and the need for robust financial management.

The challenges faced by China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group highlight the complexities and risks inherent in the electric vehicle industry. The demands for subsidy repayment and the operational halt ordered for its subsidiary underscore the critical need for strategic and financial resilience. As the company navigates these challenges, its actions will be pivotal in determining its ability to sustain its operations and achieve long-term success in the competitive EV market.

(Inputs from Reuters)

China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group (0708.HK) is facing significant operational challenges, with local administrative bodies demanding repayment of 1.9 billion yuan (USD 261.

China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group (0708.HK) is facing significant operational challenges, with local administrative bodies demanding repayment of 1.9 billion yuan (USD 261.91 million) in subsidies. This development threatens the company's assets, including land and equipment, as the company grapples with increasing financial pressures. Subsidy repayment demand In a letter sent last month, local administrative authorities demanded that Evergrande Automotive Holdings terminate several investment cooperation agreements made since April 29, 2019. This letter serves as a formal demand for the repayment of substantial subsidies provided to the company. The potential enforcement of this demand could lead to the compulsory resumption of land associated with the company's plants, along with the seizure of buildings and equipment used to repay the subsidies. The company's statement on Tuesday highlighted the gravity of the situation: "If the decision by the relevant local administrative authority is implemented, it would result in the Group being exposed to the risks of compulsory resumption of land of the relevant plants, and the buildings and equipment thereon being used for repayment of the said incentives and subsidies." Also read: GM infuses USD 850 mn into Cruise to bolster operations post-robotaxi incident Operational halt and rectification orders Adding to the company's woes, Evergrande New Energy Vehicle (Tianjin) Co, another subsidiary, received a notice instructing it to address three specific issues and to cease the production and sale of new energy passenger vehicles. This halt in operations further compounds the difficulties faced by Evergrande's EV unit as it strives to maintain its position in the market. The group has expressed its intent to submit the necessary appeal and rectification materials to the authorities within the specified time frame, in hopes of mitigating the impact of these orders. However, the outcome remains uncertain, and the potential repercussions on the company's operations are significant. Market reaction The market reacted sharply to the news, with shares of China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group plunging 27% on Wednesday. This dramatic drop reflects investor concerns about the company's ability to navigate the financial and operational challenges it faces. The broader context of Evergrande's financial struggles, including the parent company's well-publicised debt issues, has cast a long shadow over its subsidiaries. The demand for subsidy repayment adds another layer of complexity to an already precarious situation. Strategic and financial implications The demands from local administrative bodies not only threaten Evergrande's physical assets but also highlight the broader challenges facing the company. The potential loss of key assets such as land and equipment could severely impact the company's ability to continue its operations and fulfil its strategic objectives. Moreover, the halt in production and sales ordered for Evergrande New Energy Vehicle (Tianjin) Co signifies regulatory and operational hurdles that need to be addressed urgently. The company's ability to comply with these rectification orders and resume normal operations will be critical in determining its future trajectory. The road ahead Evergrande's response to these challenges will be closely watched by investors, regulators, and industry stakeholders. The company's ability to navigate the demands for subsidy repayment, address regulatory concerns, and stabilise its operations will be crucial in shaping its future. The situation underscores the broader financial and operational risks associated with the rapid expansion of the electric vehicle sector in China. As companies like Evergrande strive to capitalise on the growing demand for new energy vehicles, they must also contend with stringent regulatory requirements and the need for robust financial management. The challenges faced by China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group highlight the complexities and risks inherent in the electric vehicle industry. The demands for subsidy repayment and the operational halt ordered for its subsidiary underscore the critical need for strategic and financial resilience. As the company navigates these challenges, its actions will be pivotal in determining its ability to sustain its operations and achieve long-term success in the competitive EV market. (Inputs from Reuters)

China Evergrande’s EV unit faces asset seizure over unpaid subsidies

Premium sportswear brands&nbsp;are seeing significant growth in China as they implement customer-centric marketing methods. This growth poses a challenge to megabrands Nike and Adidas, which already face strong competition in the country's $55 billion sportswear sector. As health and wellness become priorities for China's middle-class consumers following the epidemic, businesses such as Lululemon, On, and Hoka are capitalising on the trend.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">China's sportswear market outpaces general apparel growth<o:p></o:p></h2>

Sportswear remains a bright spot in China's otherwise stagnant consumer sector. Yoga, hiking, and jogging are becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious customers. According to Euromonitor data, the sportswear industry will increase by 7 per cent this year to $59 billion, exceeding the 0.8 per cent rise projected in non-sportswear apparel and footwear. This growing industry creates opportunities for both established players and new premium brands.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Influencer marketing drives success for premium brands<o:p></o:p></h2>

While traditional businesses such as Nike and Adidas continue to rely on celebrity endorsements, premium brands have found success with influencer and community-targeted marketing. Fitness model Ning Zheng, who works with a variety of major sports brands, underlines the need for accessible marketing. "If other people from their yoga studio or running groups, or someone they relate to online, is wearing a brand, they believe it can be good for them too," she stated.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Lululemon and emerging brands thrive<o:p></o:p></h2>

Lululemon, which has been in China for a decade, recorded 45 per cent growth in the first quarter, overcoming a contraction in the US market. By 2026, the brand hopes to have expanded from 100 to 220 outlets. On and Hoka, both relatively new entrants, are witnessing significant growth. On's Asia Pacific sales increased by 69 per cent in the first quarter, and China is likely to add considerably to future revenue. Meanwhile, Nike and Adidas continue to dominate, despite slower growth rates and larger overall sales volumes.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Young Chinese consumers embrace premium brands<o:p></o:p></h2>

Chinese millennials and Generation Z are increasingly turning to sports and hobbies to express themselves, fuelling demand for luxury products. "I think young people in China are finding themselves through consumption, through sports and hobbies, by trying frisbee, cycling, or yoga and making that part of their identity," said Yaling Jiang, the founder of research consultancy ApertureChina. Premium brands such as Arc'teryx and Vuori are benefiting from this trend, as customers seek the greatest fit for their new lifestyles.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Agencies)<o:p></o:p>

Premium sportswear brands are seeing significant growth in China as they implement customer-centric marketing methods. This growth poses a challenge to megabrands Nike and Adidas, which already face strong competition in the country's $55 billion sportswear sector.

Premium sportswear brands are seeing significant growth in China as they implement customer-centric marketing methods. This growth poses a challenge to megabrands Nike and Adidas, which already face strong competition in the country's $55 billion sportswear sector. As health and wellness become priorities for China's middle-class consumers following the epidemic, businesses such as Lululemon, On, and Hoka are capitalising on the trend. China's sportswear market outpaces general apparel growth Sportswear remains a bright spot in China's otherwise stagnant consumer sector. Yoga, hiking, and jogging are becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious customers. According to Euromonitor data, the sportswear industry will increase by 7 per cent this year to $59 billion, exceeding the 0.8 per cent rise projected in non-sportswear apparel and footwear. This growing industry creates opportunities for both established players and new premium brands. Influencer marketing drives success for premium brands While traditional businesses such as Nike and Adidas continue to rely on celebrity endorsements, premium brands have found success with influencer and community-targeted marketing. Fitness model Ning Zheng, who works with a variety of major sports brands, underlines the need for accessible marketing. "If other people from their yoga studio or running groups, or someone they relate to online, is wearing a brand, they believe it can be good for them too," she stated. Lululemon and emerging brands thrive Lululemon, which has been in China for a decade, recorded 45 per cent growth in the first quarter, overcoming a contraction in the US market. By 2026, the brand hopes to have expanded from 100 to 220 outlets. On and Hoka, both relatively new entrants, are witnessing significant growth. On's Asia Pacific sales increased by 69 per cent in the first quarter, and China is likely to add considerably to future revenue. Meanwhile, Nike and Adidas continue to dominate, despite slower growth rates and larger overall sales volumes. Young Chinese consumers embrace premium brands Chinese millennials and Generation Z are increasingly turning to sports and hobbies to express themselves, fuelling demand for luxury products. "I think young people in China are finding themselves through consumption, through sports and hobbies, by trying frisbee, cycling, or yoga and making that part of their identity," said Yaling Jiang, the founder of research consultancy ApertureChina. Premium brands such as Arc'teryx and Vuori are benefiting from this trend, as customers seek the greatest fit for their new lifestyles. (With inputs from Agencies)

Premium sportswear brands thrive in China, outpacing Nike, and Adidas

In an interview with the U.S. media, A top American military official said that he would turn the Taiwan Strait into an unmanned hellscape if China tries to invade Taiwan. What is America's hellscape strategy? Will it even be effective against the Chinese PLA? Gravitas explores.

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US prepares first line of defence in Taiwan

In the coming week, the European Union is anticipated to unveil the tariff rates that it intends to levy on electric vehicles imported from China. This decision comes from the Commission's assertion that Chinese manufacturers receive excessive subsidies from their government, which grants them an unfair advantage.

In the coming week, the European Union is anticipated to unveil the tariff rates that it intends to levy on electric vehicles imported from China. This decision comes from the Commission's assertion that Chinese manufacturers receive excessive subsidies from their government, which grants them an unfair advantage. This move is likely to provoke stern reactions and the possibility of retaliatory measures from Beijing. The development follows closely on the heels of the United States' recent decision to quadruple the duties imposed on Chinese electric vehicles to a staggering 100 per cent. While the European Union's tariff rates are expected to be significantly lower than those imposed by the United States, they will nevertheless apply to imports from prominent Chinese manufacturers such as BYD and Geely, as well as Western automakers like Tesla that export vehicles from China to the European market. The impetus behind this move is the growing challenge European automakers face from an influx of lower-cost electric vehicles originating from Chinese rivals. The European automotive industry itself is virtually unanimous in its lack of support for the imposition of these tariffs. This sentiment is particularly pronounced among German automakers, whose sales in China constitute a significant portion of their overall revenue, consequently heightening their concerns about potential retribution from Beijing. European automakers import vehicles manufactured in China for their brands, further complicating the situation. However, Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, has repeatedly emphasized the necessity for Europe to take action to prevent China from inundating the bloc's market with subsidized electric vehicles. As Will Roberts, the head of automotive research at Rho Motion, warned, "If provoked, the reaction and repercussions could lead to a trade war which would be devastating for a region that is still heavily dependent on Chinese dominated supply chains in order to achieve its lofty climate goals." China has vehemently rebuked the European Union over its anti-subsidy investigation, urging cooperation instead and lobbying individual EU member states. Nevertheless, Beijing has yet to explicitly outline the nature of its potential response should tariffs be imposed. So far, China has already initiated an anti-dumping investigation into imports of brandy, primarily targeting French-made products. In April, China enacted legislation aimed at strengthening its ability to retaliate should the United States or the European Union impose tariffs on exports from the world's second-largest economy. The European Union's pre-disclosure notice comes just a few weeks before the July 4 deadline for imposing provisional measures, which could potentially apply retroactively for the preceding 90 days. Interested parties will be granted three working days to comment on the accuracy of the Commission's calculations. The investigation will continue until late October, at which point a decision will be made regarding the imposition of definitive duties, typically lasting for five years. The proposed duties would take effect unless a significant majority of EU governments oppose them. This timeline leaves room for the possibility of a potential deal being struck between Brussels and Beijing. Chinese executives are hopeful that such negotiations could soften the impact of the tariffs. Analysts anticipate that the tariff rates will range between 10 and 25 per cent. For every additional 10 per cent levied on top of the existing 10 per cent tariff, European importers of Chinese electric vehicles could face an added cost of approximately $1 billion, based on 2023 trade data. This would deal another blow to a sector already grappling with slowing demand and declining prices within the domestic market. The financial impact of these tariffs is expected to escalate further this year as Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers expand their export operations to Europe.

EU ready to announce tariff rates for Chinese EVs

US plans to turn Taiwan Strait into unmanned Hellscape if China invades, says top US admiral

In the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, the island could deploy a massive drone swarm designed to disrupt and harass the invading forces.

That is the plan for now, according to the top US admiral in the Pacific, who said the “Hellscape” plan is intended to divert China and buy the United States time to respond.

At the Shangri-La Dialogue Summit, Admiral Samuel Paparo, head of US Indo-Pacific Command, emphasised the potential for advanced unmanned systems to play a significant role in deterring&nbsp;conflict in the Taiwan Strait.

“I want to turn the Taiwan Strait into an unmanned hellscape using a number of classified capabilities,” Paparo said.

“I can make their lives absolutely miserable for a month, which buys me the time for the rest of everything,” the admiral added.

It may be mentioned here, the plan involves launching thousands of unmanned systems, from surface vessels and submarines to aerial drones, to fight Chinese invading forces as soon as they begin to cross the Taiwan Strait.

This type of plan would need heavy investments in cheap, reliable drones, which the US has been doing with its Replicator initiative.&nbsp;

Last year, the Department of Defence officially announced the programme, outlining a long-term plan to field thousands of autonomous systems.

Back in March, Deputy Defence Secretary Kathleen Hicks said the Pentagon aims to spend US$1 billion this fiscal year on Replicator.

Previous summer, Hicks stated that Replicator aimed to neutralise China’s significant gains, which lie in its sheer size: "More ships. More missiles. More people."&nbsp;

She stated, "We’ll counter the People’s Liberation Army’s mass with our own, but ours will be more challenging to anticipate, target, and defeat."

(With inputs from agencies)

In the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, the island could deploy a massive drone swarm designed to disrupt and harass the invading forces. That is the plan for now, according to the top US admiral in the Pacific, who said the “Hellscape” plan is intended to divert China and buy the United States time to respond.

In the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, the island could deploy a massive drone swarm designed to disrupt and harass the invading forces. That is the plan for now, according to the top US admiral in the Pacific, who said the “Hellscape” plan is intended to divert China and buy the United States time to respond. At the Shangri-La Dialogue Summit, Admiral Samuel Paparo, head of US Indo-Pacific Command, emphasised the potential for advanced unmanned systems to play a significant role in deterring conflict in the Taiwan Strait. “I want to turn the Taiwan Strait into an unmanned hellscape using a number of classified capabilities,” Paparo said. “I can make their lives absolutely miserable for a month, which buys me the time for the rest of everything,” the admiral added. It may be mentioned here, the plan involves launching thousands of unmanned systems, from surface vessels and submarines to aerial drones, to fight Chinese invading forces as soon as they begin to cross the Taiwan Strait. This type of plan would need heavy investments in cheap, reliable drones, which the US has been doing with its Replicator initiative. Last year, the Department of Defence officially announced the programme, outlining a long-term plan to field thousands of autonomous systems. Back in March, Deputy Defence Secretary Kathleen Hicks said the Pentagon aims to spend US$1 billion this fiscal year on Replicator. Previous summer, Hicks stated that Replicator aimed to neutralise China’s significant gains, which lie in its sheer size: "More ships. More missiles. More people." She stated, "We’ll counter the People’s Liberation Army’s mass with our own, but ours will be more challenging to anticipate, target, and defeat." (With inputs from agencies)

US plans to launch the ‘unmanned Hellscape’ plan if China invades Taiwan: Senior admiral

China's National Meteorological Center issued an orange alert for record-breaking high temperatures in the northern provinces. This comes after the region experienced fourth consecutive day of a continuous heat wave.

China warns of record-breaking heatwave

Beijing has conducted live drills in the East China Sea. The naval unit from the PLA's Eastern Theater Command led multiple missile boats for comprehensive training which included combating complex Maritime conditions. Watch in for more details!

China: Missile boats join PLA's live drills in East China Sea

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict grinds on the battlefield has become the crucible for military technology the once mighty main battle tunks Now find themselves under scrutiny forcing a global rethink in armed Warfare strategies.

Why are tanks on both sides sidelined on Ukraine's battlefield

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz has spoken out against the European Union's tariffs proposition on Chinese EVs. Scholz emphasized that trade barriers and isolation measures ultimately harm all parties involved, making goods more expensive and everyone poorer.

Germany urges against trade barriers as EU plans EV tariffs

Is China trying to militarise the Earth's lower orbit? Is Beijing rehearsing placing payload close to the Earth's surface? China's spacecraft Shenlong has dropped a mystery object kilometers above the Earth. #Gravitas brings you the details.

Gravitas: Is China practicing placing payload in space?

China's annual Dragon Boat Festival which drew several huge participants and spectators from across China took place yesterday.

Dragon boat festival begins in across China

Ukraine becomes graveyard for tanks, while China watches, learns & innovates

Chinese President Xi Jinping and other senior Chinese leaders have engaged in corruption and concealed vast amounts of wealth, using their relatives to obscure their activities, according to a US government report.

The report by the Congressional Research Service (CRS), a public policy research institute of the United States Congress&nbsp;also highlighted the challenges in obtaining public information regarding the wealth and corruption of high-ranking Communist Party officials.&nbsp;

According to the report, Xi had accrued a staggering $376 million in company investments by 2012.

This is in addition to an indirect 18 per cent stake in a rare-earth mineral company valued over $311 million as well as holdings totaling $20.2 million in a technology company.

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The report underscored the lack of transparency within the Communist Party of China (CPC), as officials are not mandated to disclose their assets publicly.

Control of media is also mentioned in the report, saying that Chinese authorities want to ensure that any reporting on corruption is swiftly suppressed.

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Notably, American intelligence agencies are also preparing a report that's likely to uncover major corruption and undisclosed riches among Chinese Communist Party figures, including Xi Jinping.&nbsp;

CRS report is prepared for members of the US Congress ahead of this US intel report.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The CRS report indicated that there was an expulsion of 266 members of the CPC Central Committee, including prominent figures like former Defence Minister Li Shangfu and former Foreign Minister Qin Gang.

<h2>Four types of corruption&nbsp;</h2>

The report identified four types of corruption prevalent in China, with "access money" being the most prominent.

This form of corruption involves bribes from capitalists to powerful party officials in exchange for various privileges, as per reports. The other forms of corruption include&nbsp;speed money, grand theft and petty theft.

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Several high-profile corruption cases involving Chinese leaders and their relatives have been uncovered by investigations, including those of President Xi's family members and former Premier Wen Jiabao's relatives.

Most of the Xi's $707.2 million wealth were owned by his eldest sister Qi Qiaoqiao and her husband Deng Jiagui and the couple's daughter Zhang Yannan.

(With inputs from agencies)
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Chinese President Xi Jinping and other senior Chinese leaders have engaged in corruption and concealed vast amounts of wealth, using their relatives to obscure their activities, according to a US government report.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and other senior Chinese leaders have engaged in corruption and concealed vast amounts of wealth, using their relatives to obscure their activities, according to a US government report. The report by the Congressional Research Service (CRS), a public policy research institute of the United States Congress also highlighted the challenges in obtaining public information regarding the wealth and corruption of high-ranking Communist Party officials. According to the report, Xi had accrued a staggering $376 million in company investments by 2012. This is in addition to an indirect 18 per cent stake in a rare-earth mineral company valued over $311 million as well as holdings totaling $20.2 million in a technology company. Also Read | Abu Hamza: Mastermind behind major Jammu attacks. How is he sustaining in Rajouri Poonch belt? The report underscored the lack of transparency within the Communist Party of China (CPC), as officials are not mandated to disclose their assets publicly. Control of media is also mentioned in the report, saying that Chinese authorities want to ensure that any reporting on corruption is swiftly suppressed. Also Read | First Modi 3.0 cabinet meet ends, govt to help build 300mn new houses Notably, American intelligence agencies are also preparing a report that's likely to uncover major corruption and undisclosed riches among Chinese Communist Party figures, including Xi Jinping. CRS report is prepared for members of the US Congress ahead of this US intel report. The CRS report indicated that there was an expulsion of 266 members of the CPC Central Committee, including prominent figures like former Defence Minister Li Shangfu and former Foreign Minister Qin Gang. Four types of corruption The report identified four types of corruption prevalent in China, with "access money" being the most prominent. This form of corruption involves bribes from capitalists to powerful party officials in exchange for various privileges, as per reports. The other forms of corruption include speed money, grand theft and petty theft. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russian SU-57 stealth fighter jet key features: Explained × Several high-profile corruption cases involving Chinese leaders and their relatives have been uncovered by investigations, including those of President Xi's family members and former Premier Wen Jiabao's relatives. Most of the Xi's $707.2 million wealth were owned by his eldest sister Qi Qiaoqiao and her husband Deng Jiagui and the couple's daughter Zhang Yannan. (With inputs from agencies)

Xi Jinping using relatives to conceal $707.2mn wealth, says report

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