Business
Western Retailers Caught Between Revenue and Ethics Over Rights Abuses in Xinjiang
News Analysis Many international brands have attempted to distance themselves from sourcing materials and labor from China’s Xinjiang region due to Beijing’s acts of genocide against the Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minorities. The United States, European Union, UK, and Canada recently sanctioned certain Chinese officials over their involvement in the persecution of ethnic majority-Muslim minorities in Xinjiang. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has detained more than a million Uyghurs in concentration camps in the region. Detainees are subjected to forced labor, torture, rape, and political indoctrination. H&M, GAP, Nike, and Japan’s Fast Retailing—the parent company of UNIQLO—have all released statements over the last two years condemning forced labor or distancing themselves from the allegations. But now, Western firms are facing immense backlash from the communist regime, and are increasingly being forced to pick sides. Companies may have to walk a delicate tightrope between pleasing Beijing and keeping their …
Business
China Launches Antitrust Investigation into Nvidia, Heightening US Chip Tensions
China has launched an antitrust investigation into Nvidia, viewed as retaliation against U.S. chip export curbs, escalating tensions between the countries in the semiconductor sector.
China Investigates Nvidia
China has launched an antitrust investigation into Nvidia Corp, following new U.S. restrictions on its chip industry. The State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) states that Nvidia may have violated the country’s anti-monopoly laws. However, they did not specify the details of these violations, raising concerns about the increasing tension between the U.S. and China in the tech sector.
Escalating Tensions
This action is perceived as retaliation for the U.S. limiting exports to over 140 Chinese companies, including semiconductor manufacturers. Concurrently, China has enacted bans on critical mineral exports to the U.S., signaling a strong response to American trade actions.
Nvidia’s Market Position
Nvidia previously held over 90% of the AI chip market in China but now faces stiffer competition from local enterprises like Huawei. The company’s revenue from China has decreased, highlighting the significant impacts of ongoing geopolitical frictions on its business operations.
Source : China targets Nvidia with antitrust probe, escalating US chip tensions
Business
US vs. China: Who’s Misleading Africa? – The East African
The article discusses the influence of the U.S. and China in Africa, exploring their strategies, investments, and impacts, ultimately raising questions about motivations and the true benefits to African countries.
US vs. China: Influence in Africa
The rivalry between the US and China is reshaping geopolitics in Africa. Both nations are vying for influence, promoting their economic models and strategic partnerships to gain favor with African countries. While the US emphasizes democratic governance and human rights, China focuses on infrastructure investment and development assistance, appealing to many African governments seeking immediate economic relief.
Africa’s diverse and resource-rich nations find themselves at a crossroads, often leveraging competing offers from both powers. This dynamic creates opportunities for economic growth but also poses risks of dependency. African leaders must navigate this complex landscape, balancing foreign interests while prioritizing their countries’ long-term goals.
Ultimately, the question remains: who is fooling Africa? As both the US and China expand their footprints on the continent, it’s essential for African nations to critically assess these relationships, ensuring they benefit from foreign investments without sacrificing sovereignty.
Source : US vs China: Who’s fooling Africa – The East African
Business
Zheng Bijian Inspires at the 2024 Understanding China Conference, Promoting Global Cooperation – Thailand Business News
The 2024 Understanding China Conference in Guangzhou focused on Chinese modernization, featuring Zheng Bijian’s address. He emphasized reform’s importance, openness, and global opportunities for development, urging international collaboration.
Overview of the Understanding China Conference
The 2024 Understanding China Conference commenced on December 3 in Guangzhou, featuring global leaders and experts discussing "Carry Through the Reform to the End: Chinese Modernization and New Opportunities for World Development." A highlight was the address by Zheng Bijian, the 93-year-old founding chairman of the China Institute for Innovation and Development Strategy, whose insights captivated attendees.
Key Insights from Zheng Bijian
Zheng emphasized three main pillars crucial for understanding China’s development: the importance of reforms, the blueprint of modernization, and the new global opportunities this presents. He stated, “The best way to grasp China’s new round of reform and development is to closely follow the path of Chinese modernization."
Commitment to Openness and Global Collaboration
Zheng reinforced that China values openness rather than closed modernization. He highlighted policies aimed at enhancing international engagement, such as lifting restrictions on foreign capital and expanding visa exemptions. He concluded by affirming China’s readiness to welcome global participation in its modernization journey, presenting opportunities for nations worldwide.