Economics
Clean and efficient heating south-south knowledge exchange event: Learning together for cleaner air and better life
In China, a South-South exchange helps countries yearning for clean and efficient heating learn from each other.
Places with cold climates need access to a reliable and efficient heat supply for the health of their population. But in developing countries, the majority of rural and peri-urban households do not have access to centralized heating or gas networks. Instead, they use traditional heating stoves that use solid fuels like coal, wood, and dung for heating. These stoves are often inefficient (with thermal efficiency as low as 25%-40% compared to 70% or above for efficient stoves) and emit large amounts of pollutants (e.g., CO and PM2.5), causing indoor and outdoor air pollution with negative health and environmental impacts. For example, measurements conducted as part of a pilot project on efficient and clean heating stoves in Kyrgyzstan implemented during the 2016/2017 heating season showed that PM2.5 emissions reach levels of up to 11.5 mg/m3 during ignition and refueling.
As a reference, WHO Air Quality Guidelines for the annual mean of PM2.5 concentration are 0.01 mg/m3. Over half of the children and adults surveyed for the pilot project had coughs, headaches and other discomforts, especially after igniting and refueling the stoves. Women and children who spend more time at home are particularly affected by indoor air pollution.
The low thermal efficiency of traditional heating stoves means that more fuel is needed (and more carbon emissions if coal is used) and households have higher fuel expenses. A recent survey conducted in Tajikistan shows that the rural households on average spend up to 15% of their total budgets on heating during the cold season.
Insufficient heating in homes with already cold indoor temperature is also common. According to a recent article from the Lancet (pdf), most temperature-related deaths are attributable to cold temperature.
From April 17-19, government officials and experts from China, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan were brought together to share their experiences at the Clean and Efficient Heating South-South Knowledge Exchange Event. These countries are working with the World Bank to find clean and efficient heating solutions that include the use of clean stoves. Although each country has its own characteristics, they often face similar institutional, technical, and financial challenges, and can learn from each other’s example.
The event was organized in conjunction with China’s 11th Clean Stove Expo. China has the largest clean stove industry in the world and has implemented various government-supported clean stove programs. The event was supported by the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP), and was organized by the Bank and the Rural Energy and Environment Agency under the Ministry of Agriculture and the China Agricultural University.
Hundreds of manufacturers showcased their products, providing a good opportunity for participants to see the latest in the Chinese clean stove industry. A forum was also organized for participants to learn about…
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.
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