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In Wuhan, Robotaxis Put China’s Self-Driving Ambitions to the Test

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

With government support and backing from tech giants, robotaxis are rapidly integrating into daily life in China. But the rollout is sparking a nationwide debate.

In China, Drones Are Now Delivering Takeout to the Great Wall

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 new airdrop service is part of China’s push to quickly develop its “low-altitude economy.”

China’s Film Industry Rocked by Summer Box Office Slump

A string of summer blockbusters have woefully underperformed this year, sparking fears for the Chinese film industry’s long-term future.

Guangzhou District Offers Homebuyers Free ‘Hukou’ Benefits

The policy is the latest sign that even China’s largest cities are struggling to revive the housing market.

As Hair Loss Grows Among Gen Z, So Does China’s Wig Industry

Whether facing hair loss, seeking better styling options, or embracing cosplay, young Chinese across the country are driving a surge in demand for wigs.

Chinese University Fires Professor Over Sexual Harassment Claims

A Beijing student has accused her Ph.D. supervisor of trying to coerce her into a sexual relationship, and Beijing police said they had started to investigate.

Going for Gold: The Chinese Athletes to Watch at Paris 2024

From seasoned champions to rising stars across a wide range of sports and events, these are the Chinese stars set to bring home medals from Paris.

In China, AI Enters a New Arena: The Civil Service Exam

Tutoring candidates to ace China’s civil service exams has become a lucrative industry in recent years. Now, companies are rushing to integrate artificial intelligence into their services.

Baidu’s Mass Robotaxi Rollout Stirs Heated Debate in China

Hundreds of Baidu’s Apollo Go robotaxis are now operating on the streets of Wuhan, but it has been far from a smooth ride.

Chinese University Launches ‘Panda Studies’ Program

The college aims to train experts who can contribute to China’s drive to save the much-loved but vulnerable species.

At Shanghai AI Expo, Humanoid Robots Turn Heads, Bake Bread

As China races to lead in AI and robotics, multiple domestic companies and startups showcased significant progress at the World AI Conference. But industry insiders say challenges remain in achieving large-scale commercial applications and reducing production costs.

Sound Check: How High Costs Are Silencing China’s Music Festivals

With rising costs, shifting consumer demands, and stricter regulations leading to a wave of music festivals being canceled, festival organizers are struggling to attract price-sensitive audiences while maintaining profitability.

Bilibili Bets Big on Booming Ultrashort Drama Market

The Chinese streaming platform has announced plans to release 20 “premium” ultrashort dramas this year, as the genre continues to move into the mainstream.

In China, Even Stanford Grads Are Fighting for Civil Service Jobs

A Stanford University graduate has ignited a social media storm by taking a job with an obscure township government in eastern China — highlighting the ferocious competition for state-sector positions.

Why China’s Small Merchants Are Checking Out of Mega Shopping Fests

Frustrated by high return rates and dwindling profits, small merchants are questioning the long-term viability of discount-driven shopping festivals. Some are even opting out and returning to more traditional business models.

China Launches Three-Year Campaign Against Ocean Litter

The initiative aims to significantly clear 65 bay areas by 2025 and establish regular clean-ups by 2027.

In China, Starbucks Feels the Heat From Homegrown Coffee Chains

Amid a dip in sales driven by competition from affordable local brands, Starbucks is under fire for high prices and lower service quality. In response, the company is upping efforts to enhance customer experiences and tailor its product offerings.

China Faces Another Blisteringly Hot Summer, Experts Warn

The country is heading for a third consecutive summer of sky-high temperatures, according to government experts.

Off the Books: Inside the Struggle to Save China’s Preschools

Facing low admissions, fierce competition from public schools, and financial pressures, China’s private kindergartens are upping marketing efforts and offering nursery classes. To boost enrollments, teachers are also increasingly taking on roles as sales reps.

In China, a Major Battle Between Publishers and Big Tech

In an industry first, dozens of publishing houses have announced they will boycott e-commerce platform JD.com’s “618” shopping festival.