China's skyscrapers are among the most sustainable in the world. The developers are still primarily state-owned. But now Beijing is forcing private builders to meet higher sustainability standards as well. This will have consequences because most of the world's new skyscrapers are currently built in China.
By Frank Sieren
The G7 countries want to counter China's new Silk Road with their own global infrastructure initiative. Joe Biden organized a considerable majority at the meeting in Cornwall. However, one country is putting on the brakes: Germany. Meanwhile, the seven established industrial nations spoke out in favor of respecting human rights and a free Hong Kong – but left the question of consequences unanswered.
By Felix Lee
China's pharmaceutical industry wants to play a role in the global market for cancer drugs with innovative biotech start-ups and inexpensive in-house developments. Chinese suppliers are teaming up with European and American partners to open up Western markets. Now, there is hope that the expensive treatment will become cheaper and possibly better because of the new competitive pressure from China.
By Frank Sieren
Hungary is undisputedly China's most vocal friend in the EU. Relations go back further than with other Central European states. But now there is trouble over a planned offshoot of Fudan University in Budapest. The project could lead to an – at least temporary – break with the alliance with Beijing. Because elections are coming up in Hungary. And apparently, China is not popular in the Hungarian capital. The outcome of the German elections could also influence developments.
By Amelie Richter
The EU vaccination certificate should make traveling easier just in time for the holiday season. For those vaccinated, there are simplifications such as the elimination of quarantine or mandatory testing – but not for everyone. This is because the Chinese vaccines Sinovac and Sinopharm are not recognized in the certificate, as the EMA approval is missing. However, EU states can additionally individually recognize the Chinese vaccines. This creates a patchwork for travelers.
By Amelie Richter
The work ethic of young Chinese is becoming a source of conflict between generations. Instead of working enthusiastically for a supposedly better future, they are more resigned than their parents. The reason: In view of the great inequality of opportunity, they no longer feel that their efforts are worthwhile. This also influences the plan to become technology leaders as quickly as possible.
By Ning Wang
US President Joe Biden wants to rally Europe behind him to take joint action against China. At the G7 summit in Cornwall this weekend, the heads of government of the seven industrialized nations want to adopt a counter-program to the Bealt and Road Initiative. But the German government is hesitating.
By Felix Lee
China has installed two-thirds of the world's public charging points for EVs in recent years. The country thus leads the global comparison. The central government, the provinces, and the regions subsidize the sector massively. However, while the expansion is progressing quickly on paper, there are problems in practice: the charging points are often defective and the operation is complicated.
By Nico Beckert
Chinese fashion platform Shein is shaking up the global fast-fashion industry and challenging the business models of Western competitors like Zara and H M with a sophisticated data strategy. The company already ships to 220 countries. Its market value is estimated at $15 billion – making it one of the most valuable tech startups in the world. However, as the company's profile grows, questions about its production and environmental standard are being raised.
By Frank Sieren
For nearly 100 years, the Communist Party's United Front has sought to rally nonmembers to the party line and keep overseas Chinese under control. Its role as a string-puller in other countries, where it influences perceptions of Chinese politics through close networks of relationships with influential figures, is still completely underestimated. Sometimes foreigners do not even know they are providing valuable services to the United Front.
By Marcel Grzanna
