Biz Talk

China's capital market finished the first half of 2026 on a strong note. Major onshore stock benchmarks gained significantly, led by AI, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, while foreign investment has risen steadily across China's equity and bond markets. This episode will analyze the driving forces behind the A-share rally and discuss global investors' views on China's bond market.

As China heads into the peak summer travel season, there are fresh signs that consumer activity is gaining momentum. Railway and air travel are reaching record levels, experience-driven tourism is booming, and more travelers are venturing beyond the country's traditional hotspots. At the same time, China is introducing an upgraded departure tax refund system, alongside easier visa policies and better payment services, in a bid to attract more overseas visitors and boost inbound consumption. So, are these just seasonal trends, or do they point to a deeper transformation in China's consumer economy? And what does that mean for the country's broader goal of expanding domestic demand and achieving high-quality growth?

China has hosted the 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, also known as Summer Davos, in the northeastern city of Dalian. During the event, China's technological innovation, green development and business environment once again became key topics of discussion.

Global trade is undergoing profound change as economies grapple with shifting supply chains, rapid advances in artificial intelligence, and the transition to cleaner energy. We are coming to you from the Summer Davos Forum in Dalian, where policymakers, business leaders, and academics from around the world are discussing how to navigate these transformations. One key question at this year's forum is how these changes will affect workers, and whether they will create new opportunities or deepen existing challenges. To discuss the future of jobs, skills, and sustainable growth, Song Ruixin is joined by Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer, Deputy Principal for Global Sustainability at Heriot-Watt University, and Kathleen Alexander, co-founder and CEO of Savor, a San Jose based food startup.

The FIFA World Cup is more than a sporting spectacle—it fuels investment in host markets and gives brands a unique stage for global exposure. But how does a month of football translate into lasting market share and commercial returns? We examine the strategies that turn World Cup visibility into long-term business impact.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup isn't just a celebration for soccer fans. It's also a huge global business opportunity. In Yiwu, China's small-commodities hub, also called the "world's supermarket," businesses have been preparing for the tournament for more than a year. They are supplying everything from jerseys and flags to AI-powered toys and customized fan merchandise. According to the Yiwu Sporting Goods Association, Yiwu-made products account for nearly 70% of the entire World Cup merchandise market in 2026. This story goes beyond World Cup souvenirs. It offers a glimpse into how Chinese manufacturers are moving up the value chain and leveraging technology to remain competitive globally.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly moving from technological breakthrough to economic reality. Some observers believe this shift is giving rise to a new token economy. But what exactly are these tokens, and why are they becoming an economic story rather than just a technical one?

China's foreign trade is showing remarkable resilience despite a challenging global environment. In the first five months of the year, total goods trade rose 15.3 percent to nearly 21 trillion yuan, with exports up almost 12 percent and imports surging more than 20 percent. Strong demand for AI-related technologies and green products has helped fuel growth, while trade with APEC economies now accounts for nearly 60 percent of China's total trade. What's driving this momentum at a time of global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions? And what does it reveal about China's evolving role in global supply chains and the future of international trade?

As AI keeps transforming global industries, competition in the field extends beyond pure technology to focus on talent, expertise and workforce cultivation. These core pillars decide which players will dominate the AI age. This raises key questions: How is today's AI ecosystem structured, and what talent will the industry require moving forward?

A new generation of young founders is reshaping China’s tech industry. While internet giants once dominated the spotlight, young entrepreneurs are now driving breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, humanoid robotics, and other frontier technologies. From DeepSeek’s Liang Wenfeng to Unitree Robotics founder Wang Xingxing and AgiBot’s Peng Zhihui, these innovators are becoming key figures in China’s next wave of tech innovation. What is driving their rise, and what could it mean for China’s economy and the future of global technology?

AI is no longer a promise but a reality, already delivering results from boardrooms to industrial floors. The biggest challenge now is talent, building a workforce of AI natives who can do what was once impossible. That’s why companies are making AI training mandatory for every employee, from engineers to production line workers. The question is: who will be ready for what comes next?

China’s tech giant Huawei has unveiled a new scaling law for advanced chip development, marking the first time a Chinese firm has proposed a new guiding principle for the semiconductor industry. Huawei says the new Tau Scaling Law will guide the future evolution of both semiconductors and electronic systems. So what exactly is Tau Scaling Law? Could it reshape the future direction of chip innovation? And what does it mean for the global semiconductor sector?

One year after the implementation of China's private sector promotion law, attention is shifting from policy rollout to real-world impact. How effective has the law been in strengthening confidence, improving market access and supporting long-term business development?

Chinese technology companies are driving a new IPO boom on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Since the beginning of this year, 53 companies have listed in Hong Kong, raising nearly 158 billion Hong Kong dollars. Among them, 48 companies are from the Chinese mainland. The latest wave of listings has been dominated by high-tech companies, especially in artificial intelligence, semiconductors and high-end manufacturing. What is driving the surge of Chinese mainland tech IPOs in Hong Kong? Why are global investors pouring billions into them?

China-U.S. trade relations are once again shaping global business conversations, as markets look for clues on trade and investment in the broader economic outlook. Our guests shared their views.

China and the United States remain deeply economically connected, even after years of tariffs, export controls, and growing geopolitical tensions. Bilateral trade is still measured in the hundreds of billions of dollars. American companies continue to rely on Chinese manufacturing, while China remains closely tied to global demand and advanced technology. U.S. President Donald Trump brought chief executives of some of the largest U.S. companies on his visit to China, including Tesla's Elon Musk, Apple's Tim Cook, and Nvidia's Jensen Huang. Where does the China-U.S. economic relationship go next? Will the two countries enter a new era of economic co-existence?

A new policy that sees China granting zero tariff treatment to 53 African nations starting from May is set to shake up trade relations between the continent and the world’s second-largest economy. To better understand how this policy is being received in Africa, we spoke to Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Namibian Minister of International Relations and Trade.

China's May Day holiday is putting the spotlight on a nation on the move — with hundreds of millions of trips reshaping not just tourism, but the broader economy. Beyond the sheer numbers, something deeper is happening. Travel in China is no longer just about sightseeing. It's becoming more immersive, personalized, and increasingly experience-driven. From major cities to less-known county-level destinations, travelers are seeking culture and emotional value, and connection. This shift is being powered by rising incomes, infrastructure improvements, and a growing appetite for the "experience economy." What does this mean for China's consumption upgrade, regional development, and even its global appeal? And what are the implications for the nation's long-term economic trajectory?

The Auto China 2026 opened on April 24, showcasing nearly 1,500 vehicles over a 10-day exhibition. China is no longer just the world's largest car market—it is becoming a technology and innovation powerhouse, especially in electric and intelligent vehicles. What are the most impressive trends emerging at this year's show?

China’s economy is showing fresh signs of resilience. Profits at major industrial enterprises rose by more than 15 percent compared to a year earlier. High-tech manufacturing stood out, with profits surging by more than 47 percent. At the same time, global ratings agency Moody’s has affirmed China’s sovereign credit rating at A1 and revised the outlook to stable. What is the current state of China’s economy? What is driving its growth momentum? Can it weather external shocks?

Chinese companies are reporting earnings, and the numbers are turning heads. Corporate profits in many sectors are strong, factory gate prices are rising for the first time in years, and China's most innovative companies are making their mark on the global stage. Is this the beginning of a sustained earnings recovery? And with Chinese stocks trading at a discount to global peers, is now the moment for international investors to take a closer look?

China’s humanoid robots have made a remarkable leap in endurance and autonomy. At the Beijing E-Town 2026 humanoid robot half-marathon, an Honor robot finished the race in around 50 minutes. This is faster than the human half-marathon world record. What’s more, nearly 40 percent of this year’s robots navigated the course autonomously rather than relying on remote control. What is driving this rapid leap forward? What does this say about the pace of humanoid robot development in China? How different are the U.S. and China in their approaches to robotics development, from government policy and private sector roles to data, talent, and infrastructure?

China's GDP grew 5 percent year on year in the first quarter, underscoring the economy's resilience amid a complex and uncertain global environment. Policymakers continue to prioritize expanding domestic demand and advancing high-quality growth. Experts weigh in on how effective these policies have been and what signals lie behind the numbers.

China’s economy is showing fresh momentum. In the first quarter, total foreign trade grew 15 percent, with exports rising nearly 12 percent, and imports surging nearly 20 percent. This strength comes at a time of growing global uncertainty. The International Monetary Fund has downgraded its global economic outlook, warning that Middle East tensions and energy disruptions could weigh heavily on the world economy. What does China’s strong trade performance mean for the global economy? Can it help anchor stability in an increasingly uncertain world?

China's 15th Five-Year Plan unveils a new blueprint for growth, prioritizing digital innovation, industrial upgrading, and domestic consumption.

China's A-share market weathered Middle East turbulence in the first quarter, as IPO funding surged and major indexes remained stable. All 30 new listings posted gains on their debuts, averaging 164 percent. Total IPO proceeds jumped 56 percent year-on-year to nearly 26 billion yuan in the first quarter. What is driving this remarkable growth? What does it reflect about the strength of China’s economy?

As China's 15th Five-Year Plan unveils a new blueprint for growth, what signals are defining the trajectory of this global powerhouse? And where do the true opportunities lie? From high-level forums and global expositions to real-time economic indicators, we are tracking the momentum reshaping the nation. In our first episode, we sit down with global executives at the China Development Forum to discuss why they are doubling down on China and what they foresee for the future.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent a congratulatory message to mark the inauguration of the World Data Organization. He noted that as the world rapidly enters the intelligent era, data is increasingly playing a key role as a fundamental resource and an engine of innovation. President Xi emphasized that China will uphold the principles of consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits, and work with all parties to build consensus on data governance rules. Why do we need this kind of organization for global data governance? Why is it based in Beijing? Host Zhao Yang spoke with Qu Qiang, Fellow of Belt and Road Research Center at Minzu University of China；Yan Liang, Professor of Economics, Willamette University；Andy Mok, senior research fellow at the Center for China and Globalization.

At the Boao Forum for Asia 2026, the pulse of the global economy meets the promise of Asia. From the future of China's growth to deeper regional integration, the conversations here don't just reflect change — they help shape it. How do we bridge the gap between instability and a shared future? And can the multilateral trading system still be salvaged?

Known as the world’s supermarket for small commodities, the eastern Chinese city of Yiwu is sending a striking signal about China’s economic momentum. In the first two months of 2026, its foreign trade surged by nearly 53 percent. At the same time, Yiwu is no longer just about traditional consumer goods. From AI-powered toys to smart home devices, even the smallest products are getting a high-tech upgrade. What’s really driving this surge? What does Yiwu reveal about China’s economic momentum?

March 21 marks World Sleep Day, a time to recognize that sleep is no longer just about rest. In China, growing health awareness and shifting consumer needs are driving a surge in demand for sleep-enhancing products and services.

China's capital markets are drawing renewed attention from global investors. Overseas funds have been increasing their holdings in major Chinese companies such as Alibaba, Tencent, and CATL, signaling strong confidence in the world's second-largest economy. What’s really driving global capital flows into Chinese assets? As China shifts toward an innovation-driven growth model, what opportunities are there for foreign investors? Host Zhao Yang spoke with Yan Liang, Professor of Economics, Willamette University; Li Lun, Assistant Professor of Economics, Peking Universit; Andy Mok, Senior Research Fellow at the Center for China and Globalization.

China's February economic report card is out! Fresh economic data, fresh insights. CGTN's Zhu Zhu and Aaron Liu, who had covered the Two Sessions, connect with Zhu He of CF40 and Einar Tangen, senior fellow at Center for International Government Innovation, to break down the latest data. What's the state of play in early 2026? And how do today's figures shape tomorrow's 15th Five-Year Plan?

Amid sluggish global economic recovery, China's 2026 GDP target of 4.5-5% reaffirms its commitment to high-level opening-up. What opportunities await foreign investors in industries such as services, green energy, and digital trade?

China is placing artificial intelligence at the heart of its next wave of economic transformation. This year’s government work report calls for creating new forms of “smart economy,” signaling a shift from simply applying AI to individual sectors toward a broader transformation of the economy. At the same time, China has set a target for the digital economy to account for 12.5 percent of GDP by 2030, up from 10.5 percent last year. What do all these tell us about the direction of China’s economic transformation? Could the smart economy become the country’s next major engine of growth — and what new opportunities might come with it?

China's "Two Sessions" have opened as global markets seek clarity on growth, policy support, and reform direction amid economic uncertainty.

China has set its economic growth target for 2026 at around 4.5 to 5 percent. Premier Li Qiang announced the target in the government work report at the opening of this year’s National People's Congress in Beijing. The report outlines a more proactive policy stance, with measures to expand domestic demand, stabilize employment, and strengthen market confidence. It also emphasizes scientific research, high-tech innovation, and industrial upgrading as key drivers of future growth. What’s the thinking behind this growth target? What do these policy signals tell us about the direction of China’s economy?

The United States has begun collecting a temporary 10 percent global import tariff, with the White House signaling it hopes to raise it to 15 percent. The move has added to confusion over U.S. trade policy and comes after the Supreme Court ruling striking down broad tariffs imposed last year. With legal battles unfolding and lawmakers pushing for potential tariff refunds, businesses and trading partners are questioning the direction of American trade strategy. What does this mean for U.S. businesses and global markets? Where is American trade policy heading? How will the US tariff impact global trade?

With 87 percent of Chinese companies planning to increase AI investment in 2025 and more than half reporting faster than expected progress, China's AI momentum is accelerating. Simultaneously, the State Council's AI+ Action Plan is pushing adoption in priority sectors, from manufacturing and energy to healthcare, finance and retail. Guan Xin hosts a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting with distinguished guests in the AI sector, to examine China's evolving AI architecture and what lessons its AI+ approach offers for global AI strategies.

As China welcomes the Year of the Horse, Spring Festival once again becomes more than a holiday -- it becomes a national barometer. Rooted in thousands of years of tradition, Spring Festival remains China's warmest cultural landmark. But today, it is also a high-frequency economic indicator. When tradition meets AI-powered retail, green consumption, immersive tourism, and a digital payment ecosystem, the question is no longer whether the festival is changing-- but how that change is propelling China's growth. This year, travel has surged to record levels. Box office revenues have climbed. Tourism has rebounded across cities big and small. Smart retail and AI-driven services are scaling rapidly. Together, these signals offer a snapshot of domestic demand, consumer confidence, and the speed of technological transformation in the world’s second-largest economy. What do all these trends reveal about China’s consumer momentum and economic trajectory in the year ahead?

At a time of heightened global uncertainty, China and several European countries have stepped up diplomatic engagement. In recent months, a number of European leaders have visited China with discussions covering trade, technology, energy, and broader economic cooperation. These visits come as Europe grapples with slowing growth, energy security concerns and ongoing geopolitical pressure, raising questions about how China-Europe economic relations are evolving and what's driving this renewed engagement.

According to Caixin, a number of Chinese provinces fell short of their growth targets in 2025. Guangdong, the country's largest provincial economy, expanded by 3.9 percent, while Jiangsu narrowed the gap with a stronger 5.3 percent growth. Other major provinces, including Shandong and Zhejiang, grew by 5.5 percent or more. These numbers point to a deeper shift. As China moves into a new stage of development, growth rates alone no longer tell the full story. Why has "how fast" the economy grows become less important than "how well" it grows?

British PM Keir Starmer's first official China visit in eight years had a clear goal: boosting economic opportunities for UK firms. Accompanied by over 50 business leaders, the trip sought to revive the UK economy through China's market. What results did it achieve, and what lies ahead?

China is accelerating its push to become a global innovation powerhouse. There are three international technological innovation centers at the heart of the strategy: Beijing, Shanghai, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. At the same time, China is doubling down on “industries of the future” -- from humanoid robots and quantum computing to brain-computer interfaces and 6G. Why is China prioritizing these frontier technologies as new engines of growth? How do China’s three innovation hubs differ in function and strategy? And how do they work together to help China move up the global innovation value chain? Biz Talk host Zhao Yang talked with Yan Liang, Professor of Economics, Willamette University; Qu Qiang, Fellow of Belt and Road Research Center at Minzu University of China; Andy Mok, Professor at Beijing Foreign Studies University.

After an 8-year gap, the British Prime Minister has arrived in China, seeking a more pragmatic relationship. Leading a major business delegation, the visit aims to unlock trade and investment opportunities at a time of global instability. How will this long-awaited trip reshape the future of China-UK relations?

China’s commercial space sector is taking off as a new engine of growth. Once dominated by state-led programs, China's space sector is undergoing rapid commercialization. Private companies are expanding into new areas such as satellites, launch vehicles, and space services, reshaping the industry's scale, speed, and structure. Why is the commercial space sector becoming such a strategic focus in China? What does this mean for industry players and investors?

The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 has come at a pivotal moment for the global economy, as uncertainty, rapid technological change, and rising geopolitical risks continue to reshape the world. Against this backdrop, participants are asking a critical question: how can the international community preserve cooperation and build greater resilience in an increasingly complex and challenging environment?

The World Economic Forum’s annual meeting has wrapped up in Davos against a backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainty. This year’s theme, “A Spirit of Dialogue,” underscores a growing recognition that cooperation is no longer optional, it’s essential. China has been firmly in focus. From meeting its 5 percent growth target in 2025 to its expanding role in advanced manufacturing, green technologies and artificial intelligence, China is being discussed as both a stabilizer of global growth and a driver of future innovation. With China’s GDP surpassing 140 trillion yuan for the first time, what do these signals really tell us about the Chinese economy? What does China’s presence at Davos mean for the global economy, investors, and international cooperation?

As the World Economic Forum prepares for Davos 2026, we look behind the scenes. How is its influential agenda set? How does the forum turn annual dialogue into lasting impact for the future?

China's foreign trade hit a new record high in 2025. Total imports and exports rose 3.8 percent to 45.5 trillion yuan, or 6.5 trillion U.S. dollars, marking the ninth year of growth. Exports rose 6.1 percent, while imports increased 0.5 percent to a record 18.5 trillion yuan, as China maintained its position as the world’s second-largest import market for the 17th year. Trade ties also became broader and more diversified, with China trading with more than 240 countries and regions, including its Belt and Road partners, which accounted for over half of total trade. So, what is driving this resilience—and what does it signal for China's role in global trade? What does it mean for China's economy?