policy

China Moves to Standardize Place Names With Pinyin System

Timely reports on issues and events from across China. Drawing on a vast range of sources, these succinct articles provide insights into the significance of each issue in a wider context.

NEWS

The proposed measures aim to standardize names across the country, including for parks, streets, complexes, major infrastructure projects, and residential communities.

Ding Rui

After Dog Mauls Child, Chinese Cities Push to Tighten Pet Laws

Earlier this week, footage surfaced online showing a black Rottweiler assaulting a young child and her mother.

He Qitong

New Guangzhou Regulations Set to Curb Harmful Wildlife Releases

In a first for China, the new law prohibits the release of foreign wildlife, with certain species like the alligator gar and plecos explicitly listed. But native species can be set free with prior government approval.

Zhu Junxi

Olympic Stage Set, Young Chinese Dance to the Breaking Beat

Articles that cut to the core of contemporary China. In-depth, informed, and carefully crafted, every piece is carried by the voices of the story’s participants.

FEATURES

In China, Olympic aspirants usually emerge from structured state systems. Yet, the recent addition of breaking has inspired a grassroots surge, with young enthusiasts setting their own pace and direction in the dance scene.

Ni Dandan

Zhang Han

In China, Pricey Teachers’ Day Presents Spark Debate on Gift-Giving

Despite regulations explicitly banning gifts being given to teachers, the practice continues. On social media, many argued that simple gestures resonate deeper.

China’s Top Science Body to Experts: Don’t Speak Beyond Expertise

In a major overhaul of its code of conduct, the Chinese Academy of Sciences has barred academicians from making comments outside their areas of expertise and misusing their titles for undue benefits.

Out of the Blind Box: Chinese Students Can Now Choose Own Roommates 

Some universities have introduced surveys to assess student preferences and needs, allowing potential roommates to review each other’s details, such as their sleep patterns and habits.

Ye Zhanhang

CCTV Report Sparks Outcry Over Heritage Preservation in Gansu

An investigative report exposed inadequate oversight in preserving Ming and Qing dynasty buildings; local authorities announce probe.

Li Xin

After String of Gas Explosions, China Updates Safety Guidelines

In the first half of 2023, 294 gas explosion incidents led to 57 fatalities and 190 injuries, with over half attributed to liquefied petroleum gas.

In Northeast China, a New ‘Fangcang’ Hospital Sparks Public Uproar

During the pandemic, hundreds of temporary “fangcang” hospitals were built to meet urgent needs. The proposed construction of a new one has raised concerns about the necessity of building hospitals designed for emergencies.

China Seeks Cure for Ailing Health System

Translations, cross-publications, and collaborative projects from Sixth Tone’s external partners. 

SIXTH TONE ×

Can restructuring the medical insurance system stave off a reckoning for the public insurance fund?

Caixin Global

Amid Uproar, Trip.com Pulls Plug on Women-Only Train Compartments 

While the new service has garnered attention among Chinese travelers, it has also sparked controversy over gender equality implications.

Yang Keyi

Popstar Jay Chou’s Fans Fume as Scalpers Cash in on Concert Hype

Tickets for the Taiwanese singer’s shows are being resold online for a staggering 150,000 yuan ($21,000), sparking outrage on social media.

Plea for Marriage Rules Reform Sparks Debate on Parental Consent

Amid a declining marriage rate, netizens argue that China’s regulations infringe upon individuals’ freedom to choose their partners.

Gas Explosion in Northwest China Restaurant Leaves 31 Dead

Nine, including restaurant’s owner, detained; President Xi Jinping orders nationwide safety campaign.

China’s Consumers Are Flush With Cash, So Why Does the Recovery Have the Wobbles?

With plenty of cash in circulation, policymakers must look for other levers to pull.

Looking to Buy a Home in China? It Might Come With a Gold Ingot.

In China, real estate companies are often banned from lowering prices too sharply. So many are using creative means to entice reluctant buyers, offering free cars, phones, parking spaces — and even 1 kilogram of solid gold.

How Scooters Caught China’s Urban Planners Off Guard

Contributions from individuals with unique perspectives to share. Hear from everyone, from experts and commentators to those whose voices are often marginalized.

VOICES & OPINION

The country’s cities were planned with cars in mind. Can they be made safe for scooters?

Wang Yuanyuan

Tipping Livestreamers ‘Out of Control’: China State Broadcaster

Following a series of high-profile cases that have sparked public concern, CCTV is targeting internet platforms for neglecting their duty.

Nanning Slams Brakes on Parking Fee Storm, Mayor Offers Apology

City severs ties with parking company after multiple complaints alleging overcharging. Some commuters owe thousands of yuan in parking fees.