The remarkably long neck of Lijangosaurus johnschengensis. The research team, led by paleontologists from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, identified 42 cervical vertebrae at the site.
Reconstruction of nososaurs from approximately 240 million years ago showcases previously hidden diversity in southwestern China: Lijangosaurus johnschengensis (center), Nososaurus janjuanensis (top left), Nososaurus luopingensis (top right), Brevicaudosaurus janshanensis (bottom left), and Lariosaurus hongoensis (bottom right). Image credit: Kelai Li.
Lijangosaurus johnschengensis thrived in the mid-Triassic oceans between 247 and 241 million years ago.
Nososaurs could reach lengths of up to 7 meters (23 feet) and swam using four paddle-like limbs.
They possessed flat skulls with a network of slender conical teeth specialized for catching fish and squid.
“Sauropterygia emerged as a dominant marine reptile clade in the Early to Middle Triassic, maintaining its significance for approximately 180 million years within the Mesozoic marine ecosystem,” stated lead author Dr. Xiang Qinghua and colleagues.
“Early diverging sauropterygians include placodonts, pachysaurids, nososaurs, and early pistosaurs.”
“The iconic group known as plesiosaurs represents a clade that diverged later from pistosaurs within the suborder Pterosauria.”
“Nososauridae represents the systematic paleontological equivalent of nososaurids and encompasses more than just nososaurids (nososaurus and lariosaurus) as well as other nososaur species.”
“Although numerous species have been described, nososaurs show low diversity at the genus level and in anatomical morphology relative to other sauropterygian subgroups.”
“Typically, nososaurs are larger than pachypleurosaurs but smaller than pistosaurs, including plesiosaurs.”
The skull of Lijangosaurus johnschengensis was small, while its body extended over 2.5 meters (8 feet) in length.
It evolved an extraordinarily long neck with 42 cervical vertebrae, twice the number seen in most sauropterygians of its time.
“Plesiosaurs are generally recognized for their surprisingly long necks,” noted the paleontologists.
“Despite some late-diverging plesiosaur species exhibiting short necks, early plesiosaurs and their Triassic ancestors, early pistosaurs, featured impressively elongated necks with more than 30 cervical vertebrae, indicating a conformational lineage between early pistosaurs and plesiosaurs.”
“In line with this traditional understanding, we consider only necks with more than 30 cervical vertebrae as long or elongated necks in our research.”
“This distinctive feature of plesiosaurs is unmatched among secondary marine quadrupeds; in contrast, other leading marine animals like ichthyosaurs, thalatoids, mosasaurs, and cetaceans typically possess shorter necks and exhibit more fish-like traits.”
The fossilized skeleton of Lijangosaurus johnschengensis was unearthed in a previously unidentified Early Middle Triassic zone of the Beiya Formation in Yunnan Province, China, near the eastern Tibetan Plateau and northern Myanmar.
“This location differs from previously documented fossil-rich regions in southwestern China along the Yunnan-Guizhou border,” the researchers remarked.
Lijangosaurus johnschengensis marks the earliest known instance of a sauropterygian reptile with an exceptionally long neck featuring 42 cervical vertebrae.
“Our findings demonstrate that extreme cervical elongation, defined as possessing more than 30 cervical vertebrae, emerged in sauropterygians prior to the arrival of plesiosaurs and their pterosaur ancestors,” the scientists concluded.
“Moreover, Lijangosaurus johnschengensis shows a unique type of accessory facet joint differing from other reptiles, which is believed to reduce body undulation.”
“This discovery enhances our understanding of the variety of accessory facet joints in reptiles and underscores the high degree of spinal flexibility during the early evolution of sauropterygians.”
The team’s paper is published in the journal Communications Biology.
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W. Wang et al. 2025. The oldest long-necked sauropterygians, Lijangosaurus johnschengensis: Plasticity of vertebral evolution in sauropterygian marine reptiles. Communications Biology August 1551. doi: 10.1038/s42003-025-08911-1
Scientists have identified an impact crater formed in a granite mountain, which is covered by a dense weathered crust in southern China. The Jinlin Crater, situated in Zhaoqing, Guangdong Province, is among approximately 200 craters recognized worldwide and is estimated to be less than 11,700 years old.
Panoramic aerial drone image of Jinlin Crater taken on May 12, 2025. Image credit: Chen et al., doi: 10.1063/5.0301625.
Throughout Earth’s geological history, a variety of impact craters have emerged.
Nevertheless, due to tectonic movements and significant surface weathering, many ancient craters have been eroded, distorted, or covered.
Currently, around 200 impact craters have been documented globally.
Only four of these impact craters have been reported in China, all of which are in the northeastern region.
In contrast, southern China experiences a tropical to subtropical monsoon climate, with high rainfall, humidity, and temperatures that promote substantial chemical weathering.
The newly found impact structure, referred to as Jinlin Crater, is located in the low mountains and hills of northwestern Guangdong province, adjacent to Jinlin Waterside Village in Deqing County, Zhaoqing City.
With a diameter of 900 m, it stands as the largest known impact crater of the modern Holocene, significantly surpassing the 300 m Maka crater, which was previously the largest identified Holocene impact structure.
“This discovery indicates that the scale of small extraterrestrial object impacts on Earth during the Holocene is much greater than previously known,” remarked Dr. Ming Chen, a researcher at the Hyperbaric Science and Technology Center.
In this instance, the “small” impactor is believed to be a meteorite, rather than a comet, which would have resulted in a crater no less than 10 km wide.
However, Chen and his team have not yet established if the meteorite was composed of iron or stone.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this crater is its remarkable preservation, especially given the monsoons, heavy rainfall, and high humidity conditions of the region, which are typically conducive to erosion.
Within the granite layers that shield and conserve that impact structure, researchers uncovered numerous quartz fragments that exhibit distinctive microscopic characteristics known as planar deformation features. Geologists utilize these as indicators of some form of impact.
“On Earth, quartz planar deformation features can only be formed by intense shock waves generated from celestial body collisions, with formation pressures between 10 to 35 gigapascals. This shock effect cannot be replicated by geological processes on Earth,” explained Dr. Chen.
“It is widely accepted that over Earth’s history, every point on the Earth’s surface has experienced impacts from extraterrestrial objects with roughly equal probability.”
“However, geological variations have led to different erosion rates of these historical impact markers, with some vanishing completely.”
“This underscores the significance of the Jinlin Crater discovery.”
“Impact craters serve as genuine records of Earth’s impact history.”
Uncovering Earth impact craters can furnish us with a more objective basis for comprehending the distribution, geological evolution, and impact history and regulation of small extraterrestrial objects.
For more details, refer to the team’s paper published in the Journal on October 15, 2025, titled Matter and radiation at the limit.
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Ming Chen et al. 2026. Jinlin Crater, Guangdong, China: Impact origin confirmed. Matarajith. extreme 11, 013001; doi: 10.1063/5.0301625
Two of the most popular gay dating applications in China have been removed from the country’s app stores, sparking concerns about increased repression of the LGBT community.
As of Tuesday, Blued and Finka were no longer accessible on Apple’s app store and certain Android platforms. Users who have previously downloaded the applications seem to still have access to them.
Both applications remain available for download from their official websites, and no official statement has been made regarding their removal.
In a statement to Wired, Apple remarked: “We adhere to the laws of the nations in which we operate. Following directives from the Cyberspace Administration of China, these two apps have been removed solely from our China storefront.”
Apple operates a distinct app store in China, in compliance with local regulations. Popular applications such as Facebook, Instagram, and other Western social media platforms are inaccessible to Chinese users. Furthermore, international dating apps like Grindr and Tinder are also blocked.
Blued, which was established in China in 2012, is the nation’s most popular dating app for gay men, boasting over 40 million registered users globally. Despite diversifying into live streaming and other services in recent years, it primarily remains an app catered to gay men.
The parent company of Blued acquired Finka in 2020.
Although homosexuality is legal in China, the public expression of LGBT identities has become increasingly suppressed after years of progressive changes. LGBT civil society organizations have been forced to shut down, and China’s largest Pride event, Shanghai Pride, was canceled in 2020. In September, a horror film featuring a gay couple was modified digitally for its release in China.
The founder of an LGBT community organization, who wished to remain anonymous for safety reasons, expressed being “very shocked” at the removal of Blued and Finka from app stores.
“In recent years, the space for sexual minorities has been diminishing…but I was unprepared for the news that online spaces are also disappearing,” he stated.
“Do apps like Blued not aid in fostering social stability and harmony? Why remove them from app stores? I find it challenging to grasp the reasoning behind this,” he continued.
The reason for the app removals and their permanence remains unclear, but internet users have rapidly expressed their concerns.
One WeChat user remarked that Blued “helped countless individuals realize they were not alone, bringing a marginalized group into focus.”
The Cyberspace Administration of China was not available for comment.
Nexperia, the automotive semiconductor manufacturer based in the EU and at the heart of the geopolitical tensions, has stopped all supplies to its factories in China, intensifying a trade war that risks shuttering production for automakers globally.
This week, the company communicated with its clients about the suspension of all supplies to its Chinese facility.
In September, the Netherlands utilized national security legislation to take control of the semiconductor maker due to fears that its Chinese owner, Wingtech Technologies, intended to transfer intellectual property to another affiliated company. The Dutch authorities stated: Threatened the future of Europe’s chip production capacity and subsequently dismissed Wingtech Chairman Zhang Xuezheng as CEO.
In retaliation, China ceased exports from all Nexperia factories and warned that this embargo could lead to the closure of production lines at EU car manufacturers within days.
The continuing lockdown jeopardizes the supply chain, as numerous Nexperia products produced in Europe—including wafers used to manufacture chips—were typically sent to factories in China for packaging and distribution.
Nexperia’s interim CEO, Stephen Tilger, stated on Sunday that shipments to its Dongguan factory in Guangdong province have been halted due to a “direct result of local management’s recent failure to comply with agreed contractual payment terms,” according to excerpts first released by Reuters.
Nexperia remains optimistic about resuming shipments and is hoping to de-escalate the situation. A source familiar with the developments indicated that shipments might recommence once contractual payments are made. Additionally, the company will continue sending products to its Malaysian facility, which is smaller than the Chinese one.
Automakers are expressing concerns over potential disruptions caused by shortages of crucial components essential for modern vehicles.
The automotive sector faced severe semiconductor shortages following the coronavirus pandemic, but it was not Nexperia’s lower-cost power control chips that were impacted—it was more advanced chips. The company usually ships over 100 billion items annually, utilized in various applications from airbags and adjustable seating to side mirrors and central locking.
Nissan Motor Co. announced this week that it has sufficient chips to last until early November, while competitor Honda reported halting production at its Mexican facility. Mercedes-Benz described its situation as “manageable” in the short term, yet is exploring alternatives. Volkswagen suggested that its annual profit goals could be compromised without adequate chip supply.
Conversely, Toyota, the world’s largest automaker, informed reporters at an auto show in Tokyo on Friday that it is not experiencing significant supply challenges, even though production might ultimately be affected.
EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčović aims to initiate further discussions with Chinese officials following meetings in Brussels with both Chinese and EU representatives to address the export ban on Nexperia and restrictions on rare earth minerals supply.
Additionally, on the same day, the bloc’s technical commissioner Hena Virkunen met with Nexperia’s interim leader after discussions with European chip manufacturers Infineon, ST, and NXP the previous day.
Post-meeting, he noted that discussions with Nexperia underscored the EU’s necessity for new tipping laws as three lessons identified from the ongoing crisis: enhanced visibility of chip inventory in the pipeline, the importance of investing in chip supply despite costs, and the need for reserve inventories.
“Diversifying stockpiles and supplies is crucial to our collective resilience,” she stated.
The German Automotive Industry Association (VDA) expressed concern on Thursday that without a swift resolution to the situation at Nexperia, it could lead to “significant production restrictions and even suspensions in the near future.”
Businesses in the UK are likely to be impacted as well. Nexperia manufactures some of its chip wafers at a plant established by Dutch company Philips in Manchester.
Previously, Nexperia owned another factory in south Wales but was blocked by the UK government from completing its acquisition of the Newport wafer factory due to national security concerns, given its ultimate Chinese ownership. Subsequently, US semiconductor firm Vishay Intertechnology acquired the factory in November 2023.
Wingtech has yet to respond to requests for comments.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on Sunday that the details regarding the transfer of TikTok’s US operations to a new owner have been finalized between the US and China.
“We have reached a conclusive agreement regarding TikTok,” Bessent stated. said, during an appearance with Margaret Brennan on CBS’s Face the Nation. He referred to Donald Trump and China’s Xi Jinping, mentioning: “With discussions scheduled for Thursday in South Korea, the two leaders will convene in Madrid, and we believe all details have been finalized, which will complete the agreement.”
While Bessent did not share specifics of the transaction, he noted it is part of a larger trade deal framework that both nations will discuss when President Trump and President Xi Jinping meet in the coming days.
Bessent’s remarks followed President Trump’s signing of a presidential order on September 25th, which allowed for a new ownership agreement in the US involving a majority of US investors.
“I am not involved in the commercial details of this transaction,” Bessent remarked. “My focus was to secure approval from the Chinese side for the transaction, which I believe we have effectively achieved over the past two days.”
Barron Trump, President Trump’s 19-year-old son, proposed that the president nominate former social media producer Jack Advent as a director. President Trump has indicated that the new US investors include prominent conservative media figures like Rupert Murdoch and Larry Ellison.
During his first presidential term, Trump threatened to ban TikTok in 2020 in retaliation for China’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic.
Congress enacted a ban on the app during Trump’s administration, which was signed into law by Joe Biden in April 2024. The agreement was set to take effect on January 20, 2025, but was extended four times by Trump while his administration negotiated the ownership transfer.
The estimated value of this contract is $14 billion, with US and international investors expected to hold about 65% of the company’s shares, while ByteDance and Chinese investors will maintain less than 20%.
Trump’s Executive Order grants new investors, including six of the seven board seats, oversight of the app’s algorithms.
Trump arrived in Malaysia on Sunday to participate in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit as part of a five-day tour of the region, and a direct meeting between Trump and Xi is planned for Thursday.
The two leaders are expected to discuss U.S. agricultural exports, the trade balance, and issues related to the fentanyl crisis, which were cited as reasons for Trump’s 20% tariffs on Chinese imports.
Intricate and sophisticated sequences depend on several untested technologies. A crucial aspect is the refueling of starships in space. Dreyer noted that it remains uncertain how many launches will be required to supply the necessary fuel, but they must occur rapidly.
“It might take between 12 and 20 refueling missions within a month to replenish Starship’s tanks with enough fuel for a mission to the moon and back,” he stated. “Such a scenario has never been realized.”
Refueling only in space would necessitate a “significant advancement” from Starship’s current capabilities, he remarked.
“This poses a tremendous challenge,” Dreyer emphasized. “Without these advancements, our lunar aspirations won’t be achievable.”
The Starship lander is projected to stand approximately 150 feet taller than the rugged, spider-like lunar lander NASA utilized during the Apollo missions. Such a taller design could enable Starship to transport more passengers and cargo; however, it may also be less stable than the Apollo spacecraft.
Nevertheless, Dreyer argued that it wouldn’t have been practical for NASA to depend on outdated technology, especially considering financial constraints. A single Saturn V rocket launch from the Apollo era costs around $2 billion today. In contrast, SpaceX aims to develop Starship as fully reusable, which could lower costs and speed up launch times.
The next phase for the company involves revealing an upgraded Starship prototype. This model is approximately five feet taller and incorporates an enhanced docking mechanism, increased energy storage, and software improvements to facilitate long-duration flights.
This new version will be employed for Starship’s inaugural orbital flight, testing essential SpaceX procedures such as fuel transfer and payload transportation into space, as per SpaceX officials. I discussed this in my previous post following Monday’s test.
Future missions, like this week’s, will also be under scrutiny as China moves toward its 2030 objectives.
“Four years is a short time frame in space,” Dreyer remarked. “These endeavors are exceptionally complex and challenging because the universe is perpetually testing you.”
For a week now, the White House has indicated that a deal is on the horizon to transfer TikTok’s ownership to an American company. Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order this week that will establish a framework for a consortium of investors to take over the operations of the US-Chinese social media platform.
On Monday, officials from the White House revealed that US software company Oracle would license TikTok’s recommended algorithm as part of the agreement. This collaboration expands the existing management of TikTok data collected from US users.
The US president had a phone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday, sharing on Truth Social that the call was “very good” and expressing gratitude for “TikTok’s approval.” Earlier in the week, leaders from both countries met in Madrid, Spain, to discuss trade agreements related to TikTok’s ownership.
The status of popular apps in the US has been uncertain for over a year, stemming from a 2024 Congressional vote that overwhelmingly approved a law banning social media apps unless they could find US buyers. The Supreme Court upheld the law in January, but on his first day in office, Trump signed an executive order delaying the ban. He has consistently postponed TikTok’s ban, which was initially his proposal, until a deal could be finalized.
Here’s what we know about the forthcoming agreements, including the involvement of media moguls and Oracle’s Larry Ellison alongside the Murdoch family, who recently surpassed Elon Musk as the richest individuals globally:
What are the terms of the transaction?
The deal aims to keep TikTok operational in the US, but under new ownership that is not linked to China. Lawmakers argue that a popular social media app owned by a Chinese entity poses risks, enabling potential propaganda spread among its 180 million US users.
At least 12 investors have shown interest in acquiring TikTok, including a consortium led by software giant Oracle. A complete roster of investors has yet to be disclosed. According to White House officials, Oracle is responsible for managing data for US users and overseeing TikTok’s influential recommendation algorithms, ensuring that information remains outside the jurisdiction of Chinese authorities.
ByteDance will ultimately retain less than 20% ownership of the app, as White House officials told Reuters, with US TikTok operations managed by a blend of existing US and global firms, along with new investors devoid of ties to Chinese authorities.
The agreement mandates that all data pertaining to US users be stored domestically within cloud infrastructure managed by Oracle.
Who is involved?
Trump mentioned in a Fox News Sunday interview that media tycoon Rupert Murdoch and his son Lachlan, CEO of Fox Corporation, might join the deal. He also indicated that Michael Dell, CEO of Dell Technologies, is involved.
Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle, has been a key player among the potential buyers for quite some time. He leads a consortium that includes asset manager Blackstone, private equity firm Silverlake, Walmart, and billionaire Frank McCourt.
According to Reuters, the US government will not have a seat on the board or a golden share in the new entity that owns TikTok within the US. It remains uncertain if the US government will receive financial considerations as a condition for approval.
Why is this happening?
The prospect of banning TikTok began with Trump in 2020, citing that apps owned by China pose national security risks. This issue soon garnered bipartisan consensus, leading Congress to overwhelmingly pass a law last year that mandated the app’s ban unless sold by its Chinese owners. The initial deadline for TikTok’s ban was set for January 19th.
After embracing the app during his presidential campaign last year, Trump shifted his perspective on TikTok, gaining millions of followers and hosting TikTok CEO Shaw Chew at Mar-a-Lago and the White House. The president has praised social media platforms for enhancing his connection with younger voters in the 2024 election.
Trump issued the first executive order in January to delay the TikTok ban, subsequently signing three more orders to postpone enforcement until a deal could be reached. Currently, the president is delaying the enforcement of the law until mid-December, as transaction details are settled to ensure the new ownership is eligible for a complete sale.
What does the executive order do?
The order is expected to delineate the framework of the TikTok transaction and ensure the agreement complies with US law. The proposal reportedly includes a seven-member board comprised of Americans, and TikTok’s algorithm will be leased to the new US owner.
Trump’s executive order is anticipated to feature a new 120-day suspension of enforcement to facilitate investors and finalizing contracts.
Does China agree?
The US is optimistic about China’s approval of the deal and doesn’t plan further discussions with Beijing on the details, as White House officials explained to reporters during a conference call. However, they noted that additional documentation from both parties would be necessary for deal approval.
China has yet to confirm its approval of the transaction. ByteDance stated that while discussions about the app’s resolution are ongoing with the US government, any contracts will be “subject to approval under Chinese law.”
NASA is moving full steam ahead, at least according to Sean Duffy, the agency’s agent manager.
During an internal employee town hall on Thursday, Duffy cautioned that he could “make safety an adversary of progress” in the quest for a new space race, as reported in meeting notes acquired by NBC News.
“We must prioritize safety, collaborating with FAA and DOT, yet sometimes that same safety focus can obstruct our progress,” said Duffy, who is also the Secretary of Transport.
“We need to embrace some risks and encourage innovation to carry out this mission. There’s always a balance, but we cannot hold back due to fear of risk.”
A spokesperson from NASA stated the agency remains committed to safety.
Duffy’s remarks arise amidst ongoing turmoil at NASA, where questions about the agency’s budget and priorities have persisted for years. Since the Trump administration began, NASA and other agencies have experienced significant funding and personnel cuts in an effort to downsize the federal workforce.
At a Senate hearing this week, Duffy expressed his frustration about the “shadows cast on everything happening at NASA.”
Image of the moon, captured on February 15, 2025, by Lunar Lander, resilience of Ispace from an altitude of 14,439 km. iSpace via business wire via AP file
“If that’s the narrative we crafted, I’ll be in trouble,” Duffy remarked. “We beat the Chinese to the moon. We’ll ensure it’s done safely, quickly, and accurately.”
Facing a Time Crunch
He emphasized that time is not in NASA’s favor.
“We are under pressure to perform effectively, rapidly, and safely,” Duffy stated.
NASA’s Artemis program plays a critical role in American efforts to return astronauts to the moon, aiming for regular lunar missions before eventually heading to Mars.
The U.S. previously dominated the Moonshot era during the Apollo program from the 1960s to 1970s, yet its long-standing advantages are now at risk. Competitors like China, Russia, India, and Japan are also aspiring for lunar missions, igniting a new space race.
China, in particular, is swiftly advancing its human spaceflight initiatives. Recently, they tested new lunar mission equipment and rockets, a key step towards realizing their ambitions.
China aims to land astronauts on the moon by 2030, and has announced plans to potentially build a nuclear power plant on the moon in collaboration with Russia to provide electricity.
In the U.S., President Trump’s budget proposal suggested cutting NASA’s funding by over $6 billion.
Despite a proposed budget reduction of about 24%, Duffy maintained that the Artemis program will proceed, although “cost-cutting is vital.”
Around 4,000 NASA employees have taken a voluntary retirement plan as part of the Trump administration’s initiative to decrease the federal workforce.
In July, Reuters reported that over 2,000 senior employees from NASA are expected to exit due to the recent cuts.
Currently, Duffy believes NASA possesses the necessary resources and talent to accomplish its missions in the near future.
“If we fall short, I assure the President 100% that I will approach OMB, the House, and Senate to request additional funding,” Duffy declared.
“More funding doesn’t guarantee success, but I will seek it if needed,” he added.
Duffy stated that he plans to lead initiatives in government space exploration “in the near future.”
Donald Trump has indicated that Nvidia can sell more advanced chips in China than is currently allowed.
During a Monday briefing, Trump addressed the recent development, revealing his groundbreaking agreements with NVIDIA and AMD. He has authorized an export license allowing the sale of previously restricted chips to China, with the US government receiving 15% of the sales revenue. The US president defended the deal after analysts labeled it as potentially resembling “shakedown” payments or unconstitutional export taxes. He expressed hope for further negotiations regarding a more advanced Nvidia chip.
Trump mentioned that Nvidia’s latest chip, Blackwell, would not be available for trade, but he is considering trading “a slightly negatively impacted version of Blackwell,” which could see a downgrade of 30-50%.
“I believe he’ll be back to discuss it, but it will be a significant yet unenhanced version,” he remarked, referring to Nvidia’s CEO Jensen Huang, who has had multiple discussions with Trump about China’s export limits.
Huang has yet to comment on the revenue-sharing agreement pertaining to the sales of Nvidia’s H20 chips and AMD’s Mi308 chips in China.
The H20 and Mi308 chips were prohibited from being sold to China in April, even though the low-power H20 was specially designed to meet the restrictions set by the Biden administration. Nvidia previously stated last month that they hoped to receive clearance to resume shipments soon.
Nvidia’s impact is a major driver of the AI boom, garnering significant interest from both China and the US, which has led to heightened scrutiny among analysts in Washington and concerns from Chinese officials.
“I’m worried about reports indicating the US government might take revenue from sales of chips akin to advanced H20 sales,” he told the Financial Times.
Trump justified the agreement on Monday: “I stated, ‘Listen, I want 20% if I approve this for you,'” emphasizing that he hasn’t received any personal money from the deal. He suggested that Huang provided 15% as part of the agreement.
“I permitted him only for the H20,” Trump clarified.
He referred to the H20 as an “outdated” chip that is “already in a different form for China.”
However, Harry Cleja, research director at the Washington office of the Carnegie Mellon Institute of Strategic Technology, labeled the H20 as a “second tier” AI chip.
“The H20 is not the premier training chip available, but the type of computing dominating AI tasks today—particularly the ‘inference’ model and ‘agent’ products—are what the field is focused on,” Kresja told the Guardian, referring to systems employing advanced inference to autonomously resolve complex issues.
“Lifting H20 export restrictions undoubtedly provides Beijing with the necessary tools to compete in the AI realm.”
The US government has been attempting for several years to defend national security, especially concerning artificial intelligence development and the provision of technology that could be weaponized.
China’s Foreign Ministry remarked on Monday that the country has consistently articulated its stance on US chip exports, accusing Washington of utilizing technology and trade measures to “maliciously suppress and hinder China.”
Revenue-sharing contracts are quite rare in the US, reflecting Trump’s latest interference in corporate decisions after pressuring executives to reinvest in American manufacturing. He has requested the resignation of Intel’s new CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, regarding its connections with Chinese companies.
Trump has also suggested imposing 100% tariffs on the global semiconductor market, exempting businesses that commit to investing in the US.
Taiwan’s TSMC, a leading semiconductor manufacturer, announced plans in April to expand its US operations through a $100 million investment. However, foreign investments of this magnitude require government approval from Taiwan.
The Guardian confirmed that TSMC has yet to apply for this approval. The company has not responded to requests for comment.
wudingloong wui existed around 200 million years ago in Yunnan Province, China, during the early Jurassic Epoch.
Reconstructed skeletons and representative bones of wudingloong wui. Individual scale bars – 5 cm. Reconstructed skeleton scale bar – 50 cm. Image credit: Wang et al., doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-12185-2.
wudingloong wui was a medium-sized member of the non-Sauropodang group, part of the Sauropodomorpha, a highly successful dinosaur clade found nearly worldwide, from Antarctica to Greenland.
“The Chinese non-Sauropodian sauropods are primarily known from the Rufen and the adjacent Lower Jurassic Rufen Formation in Yunnan Province, including species like Lufengosaurus, Yunnanosaurus, Jing Shanosaurus, xingxiulong, and Yizhousaurus,” said Jamin Wang, a paleontologist at the Chinese Geological Museum and a collaborator.
“The discovery of Qianlong from the Jurassic Jillusin Formation in the neighboring Gituhou province is a recent finding that expands our understanding of non-Sauropodian Sauropodomorphs in China.”
“The discovery of wudingloong wui provides additional evidence that the Sauropodomorph community in southwestern China is the most taxonomically diverse and morphologically varied in the world, featuring a range of species from early Massospondylidae to non-Sauropod forms.”
Fossilized remains of wudingloong wui were collected from the Yubacun Layer in Wande Town, Yunnan Province, China.
“The specimen includes a partial skeleton comprising the skull, lower jaw, atlas, axis, and the third cervical vertebra.”
“Fully developed skull elements and closed central nerve sutures suggest that the specimen is likely a mature individual.”
wudingloong wui is the earliest and statistically oldest Sauropodomorph dinosaur discovered in East Asia.
“The new species fits within the Sauropodomorph classification, predating Massospondylidae and Sauropodiformes, thus contributing valuable information to the Sauropodomorph community in southwestern China,” the researchers stated.
“Thus, the Sauropodomorph community in early Jurassic southwestern China is possibly characterized by four distinct associations comprising four relatively small species, including the medium-sized Massospondylid Lufengosaurus, early Zauropod horns, and assemblages resembling late Triassic to early Jurassic medium-sized sauropods, presumably quadrupedal Massopodans, akin to those found in the Elliott Formation of South Africa and the Zauropodmorph group in Zimbabwe.”
“Close phylogenetic ties between wudingloong and Plateosauravus from the Elliott Formation in late Triassic South Africa, as well as Ruehleia from late Triassic Germany, indicate that the early dispersal of Sauropodomorphs in East Asia occurred at least during the Late Triassic Rhaetian (206-201 million years ago) or around the Triassic-Jurassic boundary (201 million years ago).”
“To substantiate this hypothesis, further samples and additional analyses are required.”
“Nonetheless, the discovery of wudingloong raises questions regarding the distribution of non-Sauropodian sauropods in East Asia and its correlation with Triassic-Jurassic extinction events.”
The team’s paper is published in the journal Scientific Reports.
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YM. King et al. 2025. The new early Jurassic dinosaurs represent the earliest and oldest Sauropodmorph in East Asia. Sci Rep 15, 26749; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-12185-2
Anger has surged on Chinese social media following reports of online groups, reportedly comprising hundreds of thousands of men sharing unauthorized photos of women, including explicit images.
A report published last week by Southern Metropolis outlined a group on the encrypted messaging app Telegram, known as the “Mask Park Tree Hall Forum.” This group boasts over 100,000 members and claims to be “exclusively composed of Chinese men.”
These individuals allegedly circulated sexually explicit images of women, captured either in private settings or through hidden cameras disguised as everyday objects such as plug sockets and shoes.
The incident has drawn parallels to South Korea’s “nth room” scandal, where women were coerced into sharing explicit photos within a Telegram group.
While Telegram is blocked in China, users can still access it via a virtual private network (VPN) that bypasses location restrictions.
The hashtag linked to the scandal had garnered over 110 million views on Weibo by Thursday. However, there are signs of censorship, as some related searches yield results indicating, “According to relevant laws and regulations, this content cannot be viewed.” Earlier reports from Reuters noted the hashtag received over 270 million views.
“Women’s lives are not a male erotic novel,” commented one user on Xiaohongshu, a platform similar to Instagram.
Another user on Xiaohongshu remarked:
In South Korea, the leader of the chat group received a sentence of 40 years in prison.
In China, those who photograph individuals without consent face penalties of up to 10 days of detention and a fine of 500 yuan (£53). Disseminating pornographic material can lead to prison sentences of up to two years.
The Mask Park scandal isn’t an isolated incident; last year, a tech company owner in Beijing was found to have secretly recorded over 10,000 videos of female employees in the bathroom, receiving only a 10-day detention as punishment. “Ten days are merely encouragement,” remarked one Weibo user.
Criminal law professor Lao Dongyan from Tsinghua University stated on Weibo that Chinese law treats unauthorized filming as an indecent crime, rather than a violation of women’s rights.
“Women who are secretly filmed are the primary victims. Reducing their experiences to indecency material is equivalent to categorizing them as participants in pornographic content, which is absurd,” Rao commented.
As authorities continue to limit civil discourse and behaviors, addressing feminism and women’s rights in China becomes increasingly challenging. Nonetheless, some women have discovered ways to counteract misogyny publicly, including through comedy.
In a recent episode of the popular stand-up show The King of Standup Comedy, comedian Huang Yijin humorously mentioned putting on makeup alone in his hotel room.
Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang has called for the nation to unite in advancing the development and security of rapidly evolving technologies, following the U.S.’s recent announcement regarding industry registrations.
Speaking at the annual World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, Li referred to AI as a fresh engine for economic growth, highlighting the disjointed governance of the technology and advocating for improved international cooperation to establish a universally recognized AI framework.
On Saturday, Li cautioned that the advancement of artificial intelligence must be balanced against security concerns, emphasizing the urgent need for a global consensus.
His statements followed the announcement from President Donald Trump about a proactive low-regulation approach aimed at solidifying control in swiftly evolving sectors. One executive order specifically targeted what the White House termed an “awakening” AI model.
While addressing the World AI Conference, Li stressed the importance of governance and the promotion of open-source development.
“The risks and challenges associated with artificial intelligence have garnered significant attention. Finding a balance between progress and security necessitates a broader consensus from society,” the Prime Minister stated.
Li asserted that China would “actively promote” open-source AI development, expressing willingness to share advancements with other nations, particularly those in the Global South.
The three-day conference positioned AI as a critical battleground, as industry leaders and policymakers from the two largest global economies faced off in a growing technological rivalry between China and the U.S.
Washington has implemented export restrictions on advanced technologies to China, including high-end AI chips from companies like NVIDIA, citing concerns that such technologies could enhance China’s military capabilities.
Although Li did not specifically mention the U.S. in her address, she cautioned that AI could become an “exclusive game” for certain nations and corporations, highlighting issues such as a shortage of AI chips and limitations on the exchange of talent.
As AI is integrated across numerous industries, its applications have raised significant ethical concerns, ranging from misinformation dissemination to employment impacts and the potential for loss of technical oversight.
Earlier this week, news organizations alerted online audiences about the “devastating effects” of AI-generated summaries replacing traditional search results.
The World AI Conference is an annual government-sponsored gathering in Shanghai that typically draws participants from various sectors, including industry players, government representatives, researchers, and investors.
Speakers at the event included ANE Bouverot, the AI envoy for the French President, computer scientist Geoffrey Hinton, known as “The Godfather of AI,” and former Google CEO Eric Schmidt.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk did not participate this year, although he has been a regular speaker at both in-person and video openings in previous years.
The exhibition showcased Chinese tech corporations like Huawei and Alibaba, along with startups such as humanoid robot maker Unitree. Western participants included Tesla, Alphabet, and Amazon.
Recent reports indicate an increasing risk of assaults on submarine cables supported by Russia and China, which facilitate international internet traffic, particularly amid ongoing tensions in the Baltic Sea and Taiwan.
Submarine cables represent 99% of global intercontinental data traffic and have experienced various disruptive incidents allegedly tied to state activities in the past 18 months.
A study conducted by the US cybersecurity firm Recorded Future has highlighted nine incidents expected in the Baltic Sea and near Taiwan in 2024 and 2025, suggesting a predictive pattern for further harmful actions.
According to the analysis, while genuine accidents could lead to damage to many submarine cables, the situations in the Baltic Sea and Taiwan suggest a rise in malicious actions attributed to Russia and China.
“The operations linked to Russia in the Baltic region and China in the Western Pacific are likely to increase as tensions elevate,” the firm noted.
The report points to several incidents, including the disconnection of two submarine cables from Lithuania to Sweden in November, with accusations directed at an anchor dragged by a Chinese vessel. Also in December, a Russian oil tanker was detained after severing cables between Finland and Estonia.
In Taiwan, recent incidents include cable damage caused by a Chinese-operated cargo vessel zigzagging over the line to Peng Island in February. One month prior, another Chinese vessel was suggested as a likely source of damage to the Taiwan-US cable.
The analysis states, “While deterring state-sponsored sabotage linked to the Baltic and Taiwan incidents is challenging, such activities align with the strategic goals of Russia and China, as well as observed operations and their existing deep-sea capabilities.”
Recorded Future emphasizes that successful attacks on multiple cables are likely to result in prolonged disruptions, typically requiring intervention in deeper waters and likely involving state-level threat actors due to the complexities of accessing these sites. Such actions may occur prior to a full-scale conflict, the report suggests.
The firm noted 44 distinct cable damages have been recorded over the past 18 months. A significant portion is attributed to “unclear causes,” while nearly a third remains unexplained, with 16% due to seismic activity or other natural events.
Submarine cables installed in the Baltic Sea. Analysts suggest sabotaging these cables is a strategic move, as it can be framed as accidental damage. Photo: Lehtikuva/Reuters
Analysts believe that targeting subsea cables presents a strategic advantage, as such actions can disguise as accidental damage or implicate vessels without direct connections to any suspected attackers.
To mitigate the risk of incidents damaging multiple cables and resulting in “long-term connectivity issues,” Recorded Future recommends enhanced cable monitoring, improved security measures, and robust stress testing of subsea infrastructure.
Notably, despite incidents in the Baltic and Taiwan regions, the most severe cases unfolded elsewhere. In February last year, a missile from Houthi forces struck a ship’s anchor, severely disrupting communications in the Middle East. A month later, in West Africa, an underwater landslide caused significant issues, followed by another critical incident off the coast of South Africa in May 2024 related to cable drifting.
The implications of the Red Sea and African incidents reveal that the longest-lasting disruptions occur in regions with limited alternative cable options and insufficient repair capabilities, irrespective of the specific causes.
In contrast, two cable incidents in the Baltic Sea last November had minimal repercussions due to their relatively low impact and the resilience of European internet infrastructure. However, the report highlights that three EU island nations—Malta, Cyprus, and Ireland—are more susceptible due to their heavy dependence on submarine cables for global communications.
The recent strategic defense assessment from the UK government acknowledged the potential threats to submarine cables and recommended a greater and more coordinated role for the Royal Navy in safeguarding the submarine infrastructure that carries vital information, energy, and goods relied upon by citizens.
Paleontologists have announced the discovery of what they believe to be a new species of early-running Neonysikhia dinosaurs, part of the Jurassic Yangliao Biota in northern China.
Skeleton of Plasaurustinron shown in side view. Image credit: Hailong Zhang.
Named Plasaurustinron, this newly identified dinosaur species lived in what is now China approximately 160 million years ago during the Jurassic period.
The ancient reptiles are part of what is known as the Yanliao Biota, a Jurassic ecosystem that included dinosaurs, mammals, amphibians, insects, lizards, and numerous plants.
“The Yanliao Biota is one of China’s most significant Mesozoic Lagerstättes, comprising fossil communities from the Jiulongshan and Tiaojishan formations, dating from 168 to 157 million years ago,” according to researchers from the China Academy of Sciences and Yunnan University.
“Overall, between 54 and 58 vertebrate species have been reported from the Yanliao Biota, which includes nine non-avian dinosaurs.”
“The Yanliao Biota preserves a large array of vertebrate material from various species, offering valuable insights into major paleontological milestones, such as the emergence of birds and the early evolution of mammals.”
“However, all non-avian dinosaurs found within the Yanliao Biota are small ceratopsians, while Ornithischia is represented by merely one species likely from the Jehol Biota.”
“This contrasts sharply with other contemporary Chinese terrestrial faunas, like the Shishugou and Shaximiao Faunas, where body sizes and taxonomic compositions are far more diverse.”
Plasaurustinron belongs to the group known as Neornithischia (New Ornithischians), a category of dinosaurs within the order Ornithischia.
First identified in 1985, Neornithischians are characterized by a thick layer of asymmetric enamel on the inner surfaces of their lower teeth.
“Neornithischia is a significant group of dinosaurs with early origins traceable to the central Jurassic region and possibly represented by several early extinction species such as Sanxiasaurus, Agirisaurus, and Hexine Rusaurus found in China,” said the paleontologist.
“Besides China, Neornithischian fossils have been reported from Jurassic regions in Eastern Europe, Scotland, and other geological periods and countries.”
“Neornithischia experienced rapid diversification into numerous species during the Cretaceous period.”
Well-preserved specimens of Plasaurustinron were discovered in the Tiaojishan formation in the Hebei Province of China.
“The fossil comprises nearly complete skeletons encased in slabs of brownish-red sandstone,” the researchers noted.
“The specimen retains most of its skull and complete post-cranial skeleton.”
According to scientists, Plasaurustinron was a small neornithischian dinosaur.
“The specimen’s total length is approximately 72.2 cm (measured from the rostral end of the skull to the caudal end of the last preserved vertebra), whereas the skull measures around 8 cm,” they mentioned.
The identification of this new species enhances our understanding of the biodiversity of the Yangliao Biota and the evolutionary relationships of early-running neornithischians.
“Phylogenetic analyses position Plasaurustinron at the base of Neornithischia, in proximity to Agirisaurus, the earliest neornithischian known,” the authors explained.
“This new species marks the first Neonysichian found within the Yangliao ecosystem and will help bridge the temporal and geographical gaps in the distribution of Neornithischia in China.”
“Additionally, the preserved remains of Plasaurustinron represent the second documented occurrence of ossified laryngeal structures among non-avian dinosaurs.”
“The laryngeal structures observed in Plasaurustinron suggest the presence of ossified laryngeal devices across other dinosaur species.”
In a manner resembling the arc shape found in modern birds, Plasaurustinron may have possessed bird-like vocalizations.
The discovery of Plasaurustinron is detailed in a paper published in the journal PeerJ.
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Y. Yang et al. 2025. A new neornithischian dinosaur from the Jurassic Tiaojishan formation in northern China. PeerJ 13:E19664; doi:10.7717/peerj.19664
Chinese paleontologists have uncovered the fossilized skeleton of the colossal Mamenchisaurus dinosaurs, heralding a remarkable new genus from the late Jurassic epoch.
Fossil remains of Tongnanlong Zhimingi. Image credit: Wei et al., doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-09796-0.
The newly identified species inhabited southwestern China approximately 147 million years ago (late Jurassic epoch).
Scientifically designated as Tongnanlong Zhimingi, this sauropod dinosaur measured around 23-28 m (75.5-92 feet) in length.
“Sauropods are enormous, herbivorous quadrupeds and represent the largest terrestrial dinosaurs that ever existed,” remarked Dr. Xuefang Wei, a researcher from the Western Center for China Geological Survey.
“They first appeared in the late Triassic period, spread globally by the Middle Jurassic, and ultimately went extinct at the end of the late Cretaceous period.”
More than 150 genera have been documented, including over 20 genera from the Jurassic period within China.
“Southwest China is a significant area for Jurassic sauropod discoveries, particularly in the Sichuan Basin,” they added.
The sauropod fauna found in the Jurassic Sichuan Basin was once considered an endemic population distinct from the terrestrial fauna of Pangaea.
This distribution was often explained by the East Asian seclusion hypothesis, suggested to have occurred between the Jurassic and early Cretaceous periods.
However, this hypothesis faces challenges from recent phylogenetic analyses conducted in China, as well as the discovery of Neosaurupod dinosaurs, including a Mamenchisaur dinosaur found in Africa.
The holotype specimen of Tongnanlong Zhimingi was excavated from a construction site in the Dongnan district of the Chonging region within the Sichuan Basin.
This includes three dorsal vertebrae, six caudal vertebrae, scapulae, coracoids, and hind limb bones.
“Our fieldwork indicates that the fossil site belongs to the upper part of the Jurassic. The Monitor formations are situated above Quaternary sediments,” noted the paleontologist.
“The Sorning Formation is composed of purple-red mudstone and sandstone.”
“The layer is rich in invertebrate fossils, including various freshwater Conchostracans, particularly ostracods and stone trails.”
Several vertebrates are identified from this layer, such as fish Ceratodus szechuanensis, turtle Plesiochelys Tatsuensis, and dinosaurs like Mamenchisaurus anyuensis.
Anatomical and phylogenetic studies affirmed that Tongnanlong Zhimingi is part of the sauropod dinosaur family Mamenchisauridae.
“Mamenchisauridae was not a fauna confined to East Asia, but rather had a global distribution during the late Jurassic period,” the researchers concluded.
“Tongnanlong Zhimingi enhances the diversity of Eusauraupods and offers new insights into sauropod diversity and evolutionary developments from the mid-Jurassic to the Late Jurassic as they increased in size.”
Their study was published in the journal Scientific Reports on July 10th.
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X. Wei et al. 2025. New Mamenchisaurus discoveries monitoring the Upper Jurassic formations in the Sichuan Basin, China and their implications for sauropod gigantism. Sci Rep 15, 24808; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-09796-0
Paleontologists have identified a new species from the Ankylosaurus dinosaur genus Zhongyuansaurus, using specimens discovered in Henan Province, China.
Reconstructing the life of Zhongyuansaurus Junchangi. Image credit: Connor Ashbridge / CC by 4.0.
Ankylosaurids (Antirosaurididae) were a group of herbivorous tetrapods known for their sturdy, scute-covered bodies, distinct armor, leaf-shaped teeth, and club-like tails.
The earliest and most renowned ankylosaurid dates back to approximately 122 million years ago, while the last species went extinct around 66 million years ago during the mass extinction event.
The newly recognized species belongs to a previously monospecific genus of Ankylosaurus called Zhongyuansaurus.
It is named Zhongyuansaurus Junchangi and lived in the region now known as China.
Fossils were collected from the upper section of the Haoling Formation in Zhongwa village, Henan Province, China.
“The fossils are preserved within an area of about 9 m.2,” noted Dr. Ji Min Chang from the Henan Museum of Natural History.
“They are fragmented and show no overlapping preservation, indicating they belong to a single individual.”
“The specimen includes one right mandible, 14 free caudal vertebrae, seven fused terminal caudal vertebrae forming a rod-like structure, four ribs, one left humerus, one elongated metatarsal, and 41 osteoblasts of varying sizes and shapes.”
The right lower jaw of Zhongyuansaurus Junchangi. Image credit: Zhang et al., doi: 10.19800/j.cnki.aps.2023037.
Zhongyuansaurus Junchangi exhibits a unique autapomorphy, featuring at least five caudal armor plates arranged in a distinct shiny pattern resembling a swallow shape.
“Furthermore, it has a relatively slender mandible compared to the more robust mandibles found in advanced Ankylosaurina,” the paleontologist added.
“The anterior tip of the coronoid process differentiates it from Chamosaurus, extending only into the last two alveoli.”
“The distal caudal vertebrae are decorated with small osteoblasts, and the humerus has a shaft proportion enclosed within 0.46, distinguishing it from Zhongyuansaurus luoyangensis.”
“The discovery of Zhongyuansaurus Junchangi provides new insights into the evolution of ankylosaurs in the lower Cretaceous layers of Ruyang and enhances the species diversity within the Ruyang Dinosaur Fauna,” the researchers concluded.
Their paper was published in the journal Acta Palaeontologica Sinica.
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Ji-Ming Zhang et al. 2025. New ankylosaur material from the lower Cretaceous period in the Luyan Basin, Henan Province. Acta Palaeontologica Sinica 64(1): 60-73; doi: 10.19800/j.cnki.aps.2023037
Donald Trump announced plans to begin discussions with China regarding the TikTok deal on either Monday or Tuesday.
The US President indicated that the US has “mostly” finalized a deal to sell the TikTok short-video application.
“I think we’ll start on Monday or Tuesday… I may talk to President Xi or one of his representatives, but we’re mostly set with the deal,” Trump shared with reporters on Air Force One last Friday.
Trump also mentioned the possibility of visiting Xi Jinping in China, or that Chinese officials might come to the US.
Last month, both leaders exchanged invitations to visit each other’s countries.
Last month, Trump extended the deadline for the China-based ordinance to September 17th, concerning the sale of TikTok’s US assets, which is a popular social media platform with 170 million users in the United States.
Earlier this spring, there was a deal in motion to create a new US-based company for TikTok, predominantly owned by American investors, but it was stalled after China indicated disapproval, coinciding with the announcement of high tariffs on Chinese goods.
Trump stated on Friday that the US needs to secure a transaction that has likely been authorized by China.
When asked about his confidence in Beijing’s willingness to finalize the deal, he responded: “I’m not confident, but I think so. President Xi and I have a good relationship. I believe that benefits them.”
Trump’s June extension marks his third executive order aimed at delaying the ban or sale of TikTok, providing an additional 90 days to identify potential buyers or risk the app being banned in the US.
His first executive order, which granted TikTok a temporary respite, was issued on his first day in office, just three days after the Supreme Court upheld the ban. He issued a second executive order in April, with deadlines for sale or ban initially set for June 19th. TikTok will now be available until September.
In a statement released on the same day, TikTok expressed gratitude towards Trump and J.D. Vance, saying, “We appreciate President Trump’s leadership,” and noted that TikTok seeks to reach an agreement to “continue collaborating with Vice President Vance’s office.”
Democratic Senator Mark Warner, vice-chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, accused Trump of sidestepping the law in an effort to enforce it.
Archaeologists have discovered a collection of 35 wooden tools, including drilling sticks and pointed hand tools, at an early Paleolithic site in Gantanquin, southwestern China. These findings indicate that the humans who utilized these tools focused on creating implements for excavation and processing rather than for hunting purposes.
Wooden tools found on the Gangtankin property in China. Image credit: Liu et al. , doi: 10.1126/science.adr8540.
While early humans have crafted wood tools for more than a million years, such artifacts are exceedingly rare in archaeological records, particularly from the early to mid-Pleistocene epochs.
The majority of ancient wooden tools have been uncovered in Africa and Western Eurasia, with notable specimens like spears and throwing rods found in Germany and the UK, alongside structural elements from Zambia and wooden plaques and excavation rods from sites in Israel and Italy.
For years, the Bamboo hypothesis has suggested that early East Asian populations largely depended on bamboo for toolmaking, though there is limited archaeological evidence supporting organic material-based tools in this region.
In a recent study led by Dr. Jian-Hui Liu and colleagues from the Yunnan Cultural Relics and Archaeology Institute, a diverse array of artifacts from the Gantangqing site was analyzed.
Among these were 35 wooden artifacts displaying clear signs of intentional shaping and use, along with indications of wear, suggesting they were deliberately crafted by humans.
These tools, made from pine, included probable hook-like implements used for cutting plant roots, varying from large, double-handed excavation sticks to smaller portable tools.
“In comparison to other prominent prehistoric wooden tool sites in Europe, Gantankin is characterized by a variety of medium-sized hunting equipment as well as a broader scope of handheld tools primarily designed for excavating and processing plants,” the researchers noted.
“The sophistication of these wooden tools emphasizes the significance of organic artifacts in understanding early human behavior, especially in contexts where only stone tools might suggest a more ‘primitive’ technological landscape.”
A study detailing these findings was published today in the journal Science.
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Jian-Hui Liu et al. 2025. Wooden tools from Gantankin in southwestern China, dating back 300,000 years. Science 389 (6755): 78-83; doi: 10.1126/science.adr8540
Paleontologists have discovered a new genus and species of medium-sized Paleasaurus, identified from two fossilized specimens found in China in 2018.
Artist Reconstruction Yinshanosaurus angustus. Image credit: X.-C. Guo, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleontology.
The newly recognized species, Yinshanosaurus angustus, existed during the latest Permian period, around 259 to 254 million years ago.
These ancient creatures were part of Paleiasauria, a distinct group of herbivorous tetrapods that thrived across the Supercontinent Pangaea during the Middle Permian.
“Pareiasauria was a bizarre quadrupedal herbivorous clade present during the Guadalpian and Ropingian epochs, significantly impacted by both the late Capitanian and Permian mass extinction events,” stated the Chongqing Institute of Paleontology.
“Fossils of Pareiasauria have been discovered globally, spanning Africa, Europe, Asia, and South America.”
“Pareiasaurus served as a primary herbivorous consumer within various terrestrial tetrapod faunas, including those from the late Permian in northern China.”
“Since the 1960s, eight species of Chinese Paleasaurus have been documented.”
Two significant specimens—a partial post-skull skeleton with a nearly complete skull and another partial skeleton—were excavated in China in 2018.
“The first specimen was found in a dark purple siltstone layer of the Sunjiagou Formation, near Zhangjiage Tuo Village in Bird County, Shanghai,” reported the paleontologist.
“The second specimen was located in purple silty mudstone at the upper section of Member I of the Naobaogou Formation near Qiandian Village in the Siguai district of Baotou, Inner Mongolia.”
According to the researchers, Yinshanosaurus angustus features the narrowest skull of all Pareiasaurus species, with a length over twice its width at the lateral edge of the cheek.
“With the skeleton of Yinshanosaurus angustus, we present the complete skull and detailed post-cranial structure of this Chinese Pareiasaurus for the first time,” they emphasized.
Their study was published this month in the journal Paleontology Papers.
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Jian Yi & Jun Liu. 2025. Tetrapod fauna of the Upper Permian Naobagou Formation in China: A new medium-sized Pareiasaurus Yinshanosaurus angustus and its implications for the phylogenetic relationship of Pareiasaurus. Paleontology Papers 11(3): E70020; doi: 10.1002/spp2.70020
China has been recognized as one of the primary locations for the domestication of Wild boar (SUSSCROFA). However, tracing back to the initial stages has proven to be complex. In a recent study, archaeologists examined pig dental calculus (mineralized deposits) from two early Neolithic sites in the lower Jotz River area of southern China: Jintushan (8,300–7,800 years ago) and Kuafukiao (8,200–7,000 years ago). Their findings indicate that pigs consumed food and waste associated with humans, including cooked starchy plants and Human whipworm (Trichuris trichiura). Eggs likely originated from food preparation and feces contaminated materials.
The domestication of certain animals, including pigs, is often linked to the Neolithic Age, when humans started moving from foraging to agricultural practices around 10,000 years ago.
Wild boars are substantial, aggressive creatures that generally live independently, foraging for food in the forest floor.
They possess larger heads, mouths, and teeth compared to domestic pigs.
“Most wild boars exhibit natural aggression, though some can be quite friendly and unafraid of humans,” stated Dr. Ziajin Wang from Dartmouth University.
“Proximity to humans provided them with easier access to food, reducing the need for a robust physique.”
“Over time, their bodies and brains shrunk by about one-third.”
To investigate the domestication of pigs and other animals, archaeologists frequently analyze skeletal structures and track morphological changes over time.
“This method can present challenges since decreases in body size typically occur later in the domestication timeline,” Dr. Wang noted.
“Behavioral changes likely preceded physical alterations, making animals more docile than aggressive.”
Thus, for this study, Dr. Wang and his team applied alternative methodologies, documenting the diet of pigs throughout their lifespan via molars from 32 pig specimens.
Through microfossil analysis of pig teeth, they examined dental calculus from the two earliest human-occupied sites in Jintushan and Kuafukiao, dating back at least 8,000 years.
The researchers identified 240 starch granules, revealing that pigs consumed pre-cooked foods (such as rice and mountain moss) alongside unidentified tubers, acorns, and wild grasses.
“These plants were present during that era and were found in human habitats,” Dr. Wang explained.
Previous studies identified rice in both locations, especially in Kuahuqiao, which benefited from intensive rice farming due to its access to freshwater compared to coastal areas.
Additional research indicated starch residues in crushed stones and ceramics from Kuahuqiao.
“Since pigs cannot cook their own food, it is likely that they were fed or scavenged human leftovers,” asserted Dr. Wang.
Parasite eggs from humans, specifically whipworms (which mature within the human digestive system), were also detected in pig dental calculus.
These tan, soccer-shaped eggs were found in 16 pig tooth specimens.
The pigs must have consumed human feces or contaminated food and water from such waste.
“Pigs have a well-known penchant for consuming human waste, further indicating that these pigs likely cohabitated with humans,” Dr. Wang remarked.
Statistical analysis of the dental structures of Kuafukiao and Jintan pig specimens revealed that their teeth are smaller and comparable to those of modern domestic groups in China.
“As humans began to settle and cultivate their own food, wild boars would have been drawn to these settlements,” Dr. Wang stated.
“These communities generated substantial waste, attracting scavengers in search of food.
This dynamic in animal domestication is termed a symbiotic pathway, where animals are drawn to human environments without the need for direct human action in adopting them.
Data also suggests that early interactions may include domesticated pigs under some level of human control, indicating a trajectory of prey pathways in the domestication process.
“Our study indicates that certain wild boars began their journey toward domestication by foraging human waste,” Dr. Wang concluded.
“This research also underscores the potential connection between pig domestication and the transmission of parasitic diseases in early settled communities.”
The study was published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
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Jiajing Wang et al. 2025. Early evidence of pig domestication in the lower Yangtze region of southern China (8,000 cal. bp). PNAS 122 (24): E2507123122; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2507123122
The former OpenAI board member, Helen Toner, commented that the US administration’s focus on academic research and its approach to international students is “a tremendous gift” to China in the competition surrounding artificial intelligence.
Toner, who serves as the Strategic Director of Georgetown’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET), joined OpenAI’s board in 2021 following a career dedicated to analyzing AI and the dynamics between the US and China.
At 33 years old, Toner—an alumna of the University of Melbourne—was part of the board for two years until she left alongside founder Sam Altman in 2023. There were concerns regarding Altman’s communication consistency and the board’s confidence in his leadership.
In the following tumultuous month, Altman was initially dismissed and then reinstated, while three board members, including Toner, were sidelined. Their situation has become the subject of an upcoming film, and along with the film’s director Luca Guadagnino, they have reportedly met in person.
According to Time Magazine, Toner was recognized as one of the top 100 most influential figures in AI for 2024, a testament to her advocacy for AI regulation by policymakers worldwide.
At CSET, Toner leads a team of 60 researchers focusing on AI applications for white papers aimed at briefing policymakers, particularly in military, labor, biosecurity, and cybersecurity contexts.
“My primary focus is on the intersections of AI, safety and security issues, the Chinese AI landscape, and what is termed frontier AI,” explained Toner.
Toner expressed concern that the US may fall behind China in the AI race. Although US export controls on chips complicate China’s access to competitive computing power, the country is making substantial strides in AI, illustrated by the surprising success of its generative AI model, Deepseek, earlier this year.
Toner criticized the Trump administration’s research cuts and international student bans as being “gifts” to China in the AI competition with the US.
“It’s undeniably a significant gift for China. The current US approach to attacking scientific research and the talents of foreigners—a considerable part of the US workforce comprises immigrants, many from China—is a boon for them in this contest,” she remarked.
The AI boom has raised alarms about job security, with concerns that AI may replace many human jobs. Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, which developed the generative AI model Claude, recently stated that AI could eliminate 50% of entry-level white-collar jobs, potentially leading to a 20% unemployment rate over the next five years.
Though Toner acknowledged Amodei’s predictions, she noted, “While I often find his assertions directionally correct, they tend to sound overly aggressive in timelines and figures,” but she agreed that disruptions in the job market are already occurring.
“The current capabilities of [language model-based AI] are best suited for small, manageable tasks rather than long-term projects that require human oversight,” she advised.
Experts suggest that organizations heavily invested in AI are feeling pressure to demonstrate returns on their investments. Toner remarked that while practical applications of AI can yield considerable value, it remains unclear which business models or players will successfully unlock that value.
The integration of AI services could range from enhancing existing applications, such as a phone keyboard that transcribes voices, to standalone chatbots, but she remarked that it’s still uncertain what role AI will ultimately play.
Toner noted that the push for profitability presents risks that could overshadow the advancement race in AI.
“This reflects how companies are weighed down by the need to balance between rapid product releases and the thorough testing needed to implement additional safety measures that could also complicate user experience,” she elaborated.
“Such companies must make these trade-offs while feeling the pressure to accelerate as much as possible.”
Toner voiced her concerns regarding the concept of a “progressive power” of AI, which suggests gradual integration of AI systems into various societal and governmental facets; acknowledging it may be too late to reevaluate this path.
She expressed optimism regarding AI’s potential to enhance scientific research, drug discovery, and autonomous driving solutions like Waymo, which could significantly reduce road fatalities.
“With AI, the goal isn’t perfection; it’s to exceed existing alternatives. In the automotive sector, the alternative involves thousands of annual deaths. If we can improve that scenario, it’s remarkable; countless lives could be saved,” she articulated.
Toner humorously mentioned that a friend suggested potential actresses to portray her in the film.
“One suggestion was a stunningly talented actress,” she said. “Anyone they choose will definitely be a worthy pick.”
Fossilized blue-staining bacteria that inhabit coniferous wood, drawing the interest of insects. Xenoxylon Phyllocladoides from the Jurassic Tier Ojisian Formation in China extends the early fossil history of blue-stained bacteria by around 80 million years, reconstructing the evolutionary timeline of this fungal group and offering fresh perspectives on the evolution of ecological relationships with wood-boring insects.
Blue staining bacteria in wood tissue of Xenoxylon Phyllocladoides from the Jurassic in West Liaoning Province, China. Image credit: Tian et al., doi: 10.1093/nsr/nwaf160.
Blue staining bacteria form a distinctive group of wood-inhabiting fungi that do not have the capacity to degrade lignocellulose but can cause significant discoloration, particularly in conifers.
Generally, these fungi are not fatal to their hosts, though they can hasten tree mortality when linked with wood-boring insects.
Recent molecular phylogenetic studies suggest that blue-stained bacteria may represent an ancient group of fungi that existed during the late Paleozoic or early Mesozoic eras.
However, the geological aspects of blue-staining bacteria remain largely unexplored.
“Until 2022, the earliest confirmed fossil evidence of blue-staining bacteria was identified from the Cretaceous period in South Africa, around 80 million years ago,” stated Dr. Ning Tian, a paleontologist at Shenyang Normal University.
Dr. Tian and colleagues uncovered well-preserved fossilized hyphae from a 160-million-year-old petrified forest of Xenoxylon Phyllocladoides from the Tier Ojisian Formation in Northeast China.
“Microscopy revealed darkly pigmented fossil hyphae, resembling the characteristics of modern blue-staining bacteria responsible for forest discoloration,” they noted.
“Notably, when penetrating woody cell walls, hyphae usually form a specialized structure known as permeation pegs.”
“As they invade the wood cell walls, the mycelium tends to be finer and can more easily navigate this robust barrier.”
“The discovery of these penetrating pegs allowed us to confirm that the fossilized bacteria we encountered belong to the blue-stained fungal group.”
“Unlike wood-decomposing fungi that break down wood cell walls through enzyme secretion, blue-staining bacteria lack the enzymatic ability for wood degradation.”
“Instead, their mycelium breaches the wood cell wall mechanically using these penetrating pegs.”
“This discovery of Jurassic blue-staining bacteria from China marks the second report of such fungi and adds to the early fossil record of this group worldwide, as recognized by Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology.”
“It also sheds light on the ecological interactions between blue-staining bacteria, plants, and insects during the Jurassic period.”
The bark beetle subfamily Scolytinae is considered a major spore disperser for present-day blue stain fungi.
However, molecular and fossil data indicate that Scolytinae likely originated before the early Cretaceous period.
Given the current Jurassic age of the fossil fungi, it is proposed that the spore dispersing agent was not Scolytinae but another wood-boring insect prevalent during that time.
The findings are detailed in a paper published in the June 2025 issue of the journal National Science Review.
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Ning Tian et al. 2025. Jurassic blue staining bacteria provide new insights into early evolution and ecological interactions. National Science Review 12 (6): NWAF160; doi: 10.1093/nsr/nwaf160
Nvidia surpassed Wall Street’s projections in its quarterly revenue report on Wednesday, continuing a streak of financial successes for the technology leader. For the quarter ending in April, revenue reached $44.1 billion, a 69% increase from the previous year.
The company outperformed an investor forecast of $43.3 billion. Adjusted earnings per share were reported at $0.81, falling short of the anticipated 88 cents. Additionally, data center revenue soared to $39.1 billion, marking a 73% growth year-over-year.
Nvidia remains optimistic about the AI sector, both in terms of its advanced hardware and the regulatory challenges on the horizon, which investors are keenly monitoring.
“Nvidia has once again surpassed expectations, but maintaining this lead is growing more challenging,” observed Jacob Bourne, an analyst at Emarketer. “China’s export restrictions highlight immediate geopolitical pressures, but Nvidia also faces competition as rivals like AMD strengthen their positions based on certain cost-effectiveness metrics in AI workloads.”
CEO Jensen Huang stated, “The global demand for Nvidia’s AI infrastructure is remarkably strong. Countries worldwide see AI as a vital utility, comparable to electricity and the Internet.”
The chipmaker anticipates revenues of $45 billion for the second quarter of 2026.
Nvidia’s quarterly reports over the past year reflect explosive growth. However, the company is under increasing pressure from U.S. regulations.
Donald Trump’s announcement in April regarding tightened computer chip export regulations effectively barred Nvidia from selling its primary revenue source, the H20 AI chip, to China.
“H20 products were primarily designed for the Chinese market,” the company’s first quarter revenue report stated. Consequently, Nvidia expects to miss out on $8 billion in revenue for its second quarter.
Despite this setback, Huang expressed optimism about Trump’s intentions to allow companies to export chips with limited capabilities to China.
“The president has a plan and a vision. I trust him,” he noted.
However, Huang cautioned that losing access to China’s potential $50 billion AI market could jeopardize U.S. leadership in the global AI infrastructure race. “China is one of the largest AI markets, serving as a launchpad for global success,” he stated during the revenue call.
“China’s AI will progress with or without U.S. chips,” he remarked. “The issue isn’t whether China has AI—it’s already happening; the real question is if one of the world’s largest AI markets will rely on American chips.”
The company revealed that the recent SEC claims could cost them $5.5 billion. They noted only $4.6 billion in claims in the first quarter tied to H20 excess inventory and purchase obligations. Some materials may also be reused, affecting forecasts.
In an interview with Ben Thompson, Huang described the loss as “deeply painful.” Reports suggest a revenue loss of $15 billion. In the first quarter alone, the company could not ship an additional $2.5 billion in H20 revenue.
“We have never written off so much inventory in history,” Huang remarked. “We’re not just losing $5.5 billion; we’ve also missed out on $15 billion in sales… and potentially… $3 billion in taxes.”
The tightened export regulations pose challenges: a committee within the U.S. Congress indicated that Nvidia is seeking feedback on China’s groundbreaking AI model, especially regarding Deepseek, an AI firm that mirrors products from U.S. AI companies without the same computational power.
The committee’s report alleges that Deepseek “secretly leaked American user data to the Chinese Communist Party, manipulated information to align with CCP propaganda, and trained on materials unlawfully acquired from the company.”
Despite the tightening export restrictions, analysts believe Nvidia has shown remarkable resilience this quarter.
“Amid industry integration and rising competition, geopolitical tensions have created a tougher business landscape. Nevertheless, the company has effectively focused on its operational core,” Investing.com commented.
“We’ve effectively managed supply and demand dynamics within data centers. Thus, the $4.5 billion impact from H20 during the quarter underscores NVIDIA’s ability to adapt to market changes,” they added.
Analysts also speculate that U.S.-China negotiations “might yield positive outcomes for Nvidia,” according to Wedbush analyst Dan Ives.
“Nvidia is the sole chipmaker propelling the AI revolution. This narrative is underscored by their results and Jensen’s optimistic remarks,” Ives stated. “This indicates a significant lead in the broader tech landscape, suggesting the AI revolution is poised for further growth, despite the tariff challenges posed by Trump.”
Though Nvidia’s Chinese operations remain uncertain, analysts note a surge in demand for Nvidia chips in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The company has benefited from AI opportunities arising from Trump’s visit, which secured $600 million for U.S. businesses.
Nvidia announced plans to sell hundreds of thousands of AI chips to Saudi Arabia, including to a startup supported by the nation’s sovereign wealth fund, employing 18,000 individuals with the latest technology.
A newly identified genus and species of the Eusauropod dinosaur has been discovered from a fossilized partial skeleton, which includes almost complete skulls, located in Ganshu province, China.
Skull of niedu in side view. Image credits: Li et al., doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-03210-5.
The newly recognized dinosaur species existed during the mid-Jurassic period, roughly 165 million years ago.
Named niedu, it is an early representative of the long-necked, exclusively herbivorous dinosaurs known as Eusauropoda.
“Sauropod dinosaurs, which are massive herbivores from the early Jurassic to the late Cretaceous period, have been found across all continents,” stated Dr. Ning Li, a researcher at a Chinese university of Earth Sciences.
“Due to global warming events occurring during the Late Jurassic, Eusauropod has become the sole surviving sauropod lineage.”
“In the middle and late Jurassic, non-neosauropods thrived, including taxa like Schnosaurus, Omeisaurus, and core forms of Mamenchisaurus.
Fossils of niedu were gathered from the base of the Xinhe Formation near Jinchan city in Gansu province, northwestern China.
The specimen comprises five cervical vertebrae and nearly complete mandibles, alongside 29 distinct caudal vertebrae.
The skull of niedu measures approximately 31 cm in length and 12.5 cm in height.
A sauropod dinosaur being chased by two carnivorous dinosaurs. Image credit: Lida Xing.
“Finding a well-preserved skull is uncommon in non-neosauropod eusauropods due to their fragility,” the paleontologist noted.
“The skull of niedu is exceptionally well maintained and nearly complete.”
“However, the left side of the skull shows deformation due to internal compression.”
“Most cranial sutures are clearly visible on niedu,” they added.
According to the researchers, niedu marks the earliest sauropod discovered in Gansu province.
“niedu is significant,” they concluded.
“We also present more information that enhances our understanding of sauropod evolutionary history in northwestern China.”
The paper was published in the journal Scientific Reports on May 23rd.
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N. Li et al. 2025. A new Eusauropod (dinosaurs, sauropods) from the central Jurassic in China. Sci Rep 15, 17936; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-03210-5
Nature despises a vacuum, and geopolitical vacuums are no exception. As Donald Trump sets the stage to confront global warming, he is poised for the climate leadership that awaits. If Chinese President Xi Jinping aims to claim that mantle, it’s within his reach.
China’s climate credentials are a mixed bag. Since 2006, it has held the title of the largest greenhouse gas emitter due to rapid industrialization. Conversely, it has emerged as a leading manufacturer of solar panels globally.
Xi himself appears to be distancing from the international climate arena. He has not participated in any climate summits since Paris in 2015, when China committed to keeping global warming below 1.5°C. While numerous countries interpret this as an obligation to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, China has pledged to reach carbon neutrality by 2060—a less ambitious target.
However, this landscape may be changing. As highlighted on page 10, China’s emissions seem to have peaked. Xi is also set to attend COP30 in Belem, Brazil this November. With a significant climate initiative emerging from China, what does this mean?
Due to a massive climate intervention from China, the work is falling into place, what is that?
The most probable announcement is the commitment to a provisional target by 2040, halfway to 2060. Yet, if Xi aspires to lead the global climate movement, he should set a more ambitious zero emissions target for 2050. Achieving this would complicate matters for other countries and catalyze advancements in green technology.
Will Xi take that step? Likely not. However, with reports suggesting that COP30 may not meet expectations (see “Does the COP30 Climate Summit already take six months, six months?”), Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula Da Silva may help persuade Xi, as he has previously indicated a desire to maintain a more robust relationship with China. Should China assume the climate leadership role, Brazil stands to benefit significantly.
Tianwan Nuclear Power Station on the Yellow Sea coast of China
Xinhua Newsletter/Alamie
Researchers in China have created a cost-effective and energy-efficient method for extracting uranium from seawater. As the global leader in nuclear power plant construction, China’s advances will bolster its uranium supply.
The oceans are estimated to contain around 4.5 billion tonnes of uranium, significantly more than is available through traditional mining methods. However, these resources are challenging to extract. Previous methods have involved immersing materials in artificial sponges or polymers inspired by natural structures, or utilizing a more costly electrochemical approach to capture uranium atoms via an electric field.
A team led by Shuangyin Wang from Hunan University has developed an enhanced electrochemical technology that is not only cheaper but also requires less energy than existing methods. Unlike conventional systems that draw only uranium atoms towards a positive electrode, this new device utilizes two copper electrodes.
This innovative method managed to extract 100% of uranium from a brine solution within 40 minutes, whereas physical adsorption techniques typically yield less than 10% of the available uranium.
When tested with small amounts of natural seawater, the system processed about 1 liter at a time, achieving 100% extraction from East China Sea water and 85% from South China Sea water. In the latter scenario, larger electrodes allowed for complete extraction.
The energy cost of this method is over 1000 times lower than that of traditional electrochemical procedures, with extraction costing approximately $83 per kilogram of uranium—four times cheaper than earlier methods and significantly less than the $360 per kilogram average.
By scaling up production and device size, researchers believe this technique could lead to the “industrialization of uranium extraction from seawater” in the future. During a 58-hour test in 100 liters of seawater, the largest experimental setup managed to extract over 90% of the available uranium.
A notable earlier success in uranium extraction from seawater occurred during the 1990s, when the Japanese Atomic Energy Agency used physical adsorption methods to recover kilograms of uranium, setting a significant benchmark for subsequent research in China.
In 2019, China’s state-run nuclear power company partnered with research institutes to form the Innovation Alliance for Seawater Uranium Extraction Technology. The goal is to establish a demonstration plant by 2035 and achieve continuous industrial production by 2050. South China Morning Post.
Half of the reactor projects currently in development are located in China. The country is positioned to significantly increase its nuclear capacity by 2030, potentially surpassing both the US and the EU. International Energy Agency.
Nonetheless, China still imports the majority of the uranium it requires, making any economical extraction from seawater highly valuable.
The incidence of dementia is escalating in China at an unprecedented rate, with numbers exceeding four times the historical figures observed over past decades.
Daoying Geng from The University of Hudun conducted an analysis of dementia statistics across 204 countries and regions between 1990 and 2021. The focus was on dementia cases in individuals over 40, particularly other forms like Alzheimer’s and cerebrovascular dementia.
During this timeframe, researchers discovered that global dementia cases surged from nearly 22 million in 1990 to approximately 57 million by 2021. The situation was particularly alarming in China, which saw its case count increase over fourfold to reach about 4 million.
In-depth analysis indicates that population growth plays a pivotal role. China experienced a baby boom in the 1950s, which means those individuals are now in their 70s, the age group presenting the highest risk for dementia. Xi Chen from Yale University, who did not participate in the study, noted the uniqueness of China’s baby boom generation compared to other countries’ cohorts.
The research team identified three additional significant contributors to the escalating dementia rates in China. First, smoking predominantly impacts men, with only 2% of Chinese women being smokers about half of the male population smokes. This contrasts sharply with countries like the US and UK, where smoking rates are on a downward trend, according to Chen.
A Western trend mirrored in China involves rising rates of diabetes and obesity, particularly over recent decades, both recognized risk factors for dementia. This shift may be attributed to the adoption of a Western-style diet, which is generally higher in fat and calories, Chen explains. He posits that as younger generations in China smoke less, dementia rates may eventually mirror those of the US or UK, albeit the present conditions continue to exert a substantial influence on China.
“Dementia is among the costliest diseases globally, necessitating extensive care and treatment,” Chen emphasizes. “As for aging, China possesses the largest elderly population worldwide. There are few young individuals to care for this significant number of seniors living with dementia, presenting numerous challenges.”
TikTok has been penalized €530 million (£452 million) by the Irish regulator for failing to ensure that European user data transmitted to China would be safeguarded from access by the Chinese government.
The Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) oversees TikTok’s operations across the European Economic Area (EEA), which includes all 27 EU member states along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.
It was determined that the Chinese-owned video-sharing platform breached the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by not adequately addressing whether EEA user data sent to China is shielded from the authorities there.
The DPC remarked: “TikTok did not consider the potential access by Chinese authorities to EEA personal data. China’s national security and anti-terrorism laws have been noted as diverging from EU standards by TikTok.”
According to the DPC, TikTok did not “verify, assure, or demonstrate” that the European user data sent to China was afforded a level of protection comparable to that guaranteed within the EU.
TikTok stated that it would not “certify” that the DPC transfers European user data to Chinese authorities. The company claimed it has never received such a request from Chinese officials nor provided user data to them.
Moreover, TikTok has been directed to cease data transfers to China unless compliant processing measures are implemented within six months.
For instance, the National Intelligence Act of 2017 in China mandates that all organizations and citizens “support, assist, and cooperate” with national intelligence efforts.
The DPC noted that the data was “remotely accessed by TikTok’s Chinese staff.”
The watchdog also reported that TikTok provided “false information” during the investigation, initially claiming it had not stored user data from the EEA, but later acknowledging the possibility of storing “limited” European user data in China.
The Dublin-based regulator expressed that it takes “inaccurate” submissions very seriously and is evaluating whether additional regulatory actions are necessary.
The security of TikTok user data has been a longstanding concern among politicians regarding its Chinese ownership. The app still faces the threat of a ban in the US, with legislators on both sides of the Atlantic cautioning that the Chinese state may have access to user data. TikTok is managed by an organization based in Beijing.
In response to the ruling, TikTok announced its intent to appeal and mentioned that safeguards have been put in place under the Project Clover Data Security Scheme, introduced in March 2023. The DPC investigation covered the period from September 2021 to May 2023.
The DPC’s decision also included a finding from 2021 that a privacy statement provided to users did not disclose that data could be accessed in China when personal user data was transferred to a third country. The Privacy Policy was subsequently revised in 2022 to clarify that data is accessible in China.
Following the changes in 2022, TikTok acknowledged that it could access European user data in countries like China to perform checks on platform functionalities, including the effectiveness of algorithms that recommend content to users and identify problematic automated accounts.
On Friday, Tiktok was fined 530 million euros ($600 million) for breaching the European Union’s data privacy regulations after regulators found that personal data of users was wrongly transferred to China.
Ireland’s Data Protection Commission announced the penalty, stating that Tiktok did not adequately safeguard data from its European users, including some accessible to staff in China, violating the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
This fine ranks among the largest under the GDPR and adds to the difficulties faced by Bitedan, Tiktok’s Chinese parent company, especially amidst U.S. pressures on non-Chinese companies to divest or face bans in the U.S. The Irish authorities noted that if Tiktok fails to fulfill specific requirements, it may be ordered to cease data transfers to China within six months.
European regulators indicated that Tiktok’s insufficient protections risked user information across the 27-nation bloc. Irish authorities further stated that the Chinese government could potentially access data from users under its anti-terrorism and espionage laws.
With approximately 175 million users in Europe, Tiktok stated it complies with EU laws, asserting that it “has never received requests for European user data from Chinese authorities and has never provided them with such data.”
Tiktok plans to contest the ruling, which could lead to a protracted court battle with the Irish government, Tiktok’s primary regulator in Europe. The company’s European headquarters is situated in Ireland, which is responsible for enforcing GDPR.
Tiktok mentioned that the Irish Data Protection Commission did not take into account its 2023 initiative to invest 12 billion euros in data protections for users within the EU, including the development of a data center in Finland.
The company cautioned that “this ruling may establish precedents that could have widespread repercussions for European companies and industries operating globally.”
Last month, Ireland’s regulators announced that Tiktok had uncovered a “limited” amount of user data stored on servers in China, following a series of denials.
Graham Doyle, vice-chairman of Ireland’s Data Protection Commission, commented on the situation in a statement.
Several years prior to Donald J. Trump’s entry into politics, Apple, together with its partners, established extensive factories throughout China to assemble the iPhone. Trump’s presidential campaign began by promising his supporters that he would compel Apple to manufacture those products domestically.
Nearly a decade later, the situation has changed little. Rather than shifting manufacturing back home, Apple has transferred production from China to India, Vietnam, and Thailand, with approximately 80% of iPhones still being made in China.
Despite enduring pressure over the years, Apple’s business remains heavily reliant on China, making it impossible for the tech giant to operate without it. After actions taken by the Trump administration, the risks associated with Apple’s operations have prompted concerns for the world’s most valuable publicly traded companies. Significant efforts to relocate Apple’s production to the US would require immense collaboration between the company and the federal government.
Just four days after President Trump announced tariffs on 145% of Chinese exports last month, Apple saw a decline of $770 billion in its market capitalization. The company recouped some of these losses after the President granted a temporary reprieve to Chinese appliance manufacturers.
On Thursday, Wall Street analysts are anticipating a 4% increase in Apple’s most recent quarterly report. This surge comes as consumers rushed to purchase iPhones before the tariffs took effect. The report will provide an opportunity for analysts to question Apple CEO Tim Cook regarding future tariffs, price hikes, and potential risks in both China and the US.
An Apple representative declined to provide executives for interviews for this article. The company announced plans to invest $500 billion in the US over the next four years and will commence manufacturing artificial intelligence servers in Houston by 2026.
“The scrutiny is warranted as they are most at risk from a complete breakdown between the US and China,” stated David Yoffie, a Harvard Business School professor who has authored a case study on Apple.
Gene Munster, managing partner at Deepwater Asset Management, which invests in emerging technology firms, estimates that a total breakdown in relations between the US and China could diminish Apple’s value by more than half. Even if a third of sales moves production to alternate countries, a significant portion of that revenue still relies on products manufactured in China, potentially reducing a $3.2 trillion company to a $1.6 trillion entity. Additionally, if Apple loses sales to Chinese consumers, similar to rival Samsung during the South Korea-China conflict, the value could plummet to $1.2 trillion, especially considering that Beijing has already discouraged government officials from purchasing iPhones.
A substantial decrease in Apple’s value would create significant ripples throughout the stock market, as the company accounts for around 6% of the S&P 500 index. This implies that for every dollar invested in the fund, approximately six cents would be allocated to Apple stocks, leading to a potential halving of returns for investors and the majority of 401(k) holders.
Apple’s connections within China run deep. Decades ago, the company collaborated with Beijing to establish manufacturing operations in China without needing to create a joint venture with local firms, a requirement faced by many US companies. This groundwork allowed Apple to assemble devices affordably in China and sell to the rising middle class, resulting in over 80% of global smartphone profits and generating $67 billion in annual sales in the region.
Over time, Apple’s relationships with China have only strengthened. Today, not only are most iPhones manufactured in China, but Chinese suppliers also produce components for devices made in India and create parts and AirPods in Vietnam.
Apple’s dependence on China has transformed the supply chain into a Rorschach test for the Trump administration. Apple wields more power than any other technology company and achieves its management objectives effectively. The company produces more smartphones than anyone else, invests heavily in components, and significantly impacts the operational landscape of its suppliers.
The Trump administration is hopeful that Apple will initiate a shift. During an interview in April, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick remarked, “A workforce of millions is assembling the screws that make iPhones — similar operations will come to America.”
However, pressure on Apple to exit China may prove counterproductive. New tariffs could compel Apple to increase iPhone prices or diminish its smartphone profits. Samsung’s devices, manufactured in Vietnam and exempt from Chinese tariffs, could become cheaper as a result. This could lead to reduced competition in the domestic market, a scenario that Trump is reluctant to embrace.
Apple has resisted the notion of manufacturing iPhones and other devices in the US, as its operations team concluded it would be unfeasible, according to two individuals familiar with the discussions who spoke on condition of anonymity. Ten years ago, finding dependable workers to procure screws and assemble Mac computers in Texas proved challenging.
In China, Apple’s suppliers can recruit around 200,000 workers, who operate in factories monitored by thousands of engineers with extensive manufacturing experience. Many reside in dormitories close to iPhone factories, where components move along the assembly line spanning distances longer than a soccer field.
Wayne Lam, an analyst from TechInsights, states that many employees and seasoned engineers have found it nearly impossible to replicate this in most American cities. He asserts that Apple must develop more automated processes using robotics to compensate for the lower population in the US.
Lam estimates that if Apple were to establish operations in the US, it may have to charge around $2,000 for an iPhone (currently about $1,000) to sustain its existing profit margins. Prices could fall to $1,500 in the future as the company mitigates employee training costs and component production expenses.
“In the short term, it’s not economically viable,” Lam remarked. He also noted that shifting device production back home after nearly 20 years would seem impractical and may complicate the introduction of new products to consumers.
Apple has demonstrated a willingness to adjust its supply chain when adequately incentivized. In 2017, the company began the process of manufacturing an iPhone in India due to elevated import taxes that would inflate prices, hindering their ability to capture market share in the world’s fastest-growing smartphone sector.
Currently, Apple sells approximately 20% of its iPhones globally in India and also produces several components, including metal frames there. However, they still depend on Chinese manufacturers for assembling displays and other intricate parts.
Matthew Moore, a former manufacturing design manager at Apple, emphasized that India offers an advantage the US lacks: “engineers are plentiful everywhere.”
Moore argues that in order to attract Apple and other electronics firms to the United States, the Trump administration must invest in education for science, technology, engineering, and math degrees. Additionally, he believes that there should be incentives for loans towards new manufacturing facilities and affordable housing through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Last month, Apple temporarily benefitted from a delay. Cook, who has personally donated $1 million to Trump’s inauguration, lobbied the administration for the exemption that spared iPhones and other electronic devices from the 145% tax on Chinese imports. However, this reprieve is temporary, as the administration plans to implement more targeted tariffs on high-tech products.
Without governmental investment, Apple and smaller manufacturers will continue their production in China, as they possess the surplus equipment and engineering staff necessary, according to Moore.
“I don’t believe the ship has sailed; however, it is unrealistic to expect them to manufacture an iPhone here,” Moore commented. “This will require a decade.”
China has successfully launched three astronauts into space as part of the crew replacement mission for China’s Tiangong space station, marking another milestone in the country’s aspirations for manned missions to the moon and Mars.
The Shenzhou 20 spacecraft lifted off as scheduled at 5:17pm (0917 GMT) atop China’s Long March 2F rocket, set to arrive at Tiangong after approximately 6.5 hours.
The rocket launched from a facility near the Gobi Desert in northwestern China, and the spacecraft will remain in space until it returns the current crew back to Earth.
Tiangong, also known as the “Celestial Palace” space station, is a Chinese-built station that positions China as a significant player in space exploration after being excluded from the International Space Station due to US national security concerns. China’s space program is overseen by the People’s Liberation Army, a military branch of the ruling Communist Party.
There are concerns about China’s potential use of technology onboard the space station to interfere with satellites and other spacecraft in times of crisis.
Astronauts Chen Zonglui, Chen Dong and Wang Jie embarked on the delayed space mission at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on Thursday. Andy Wong / AP
Since sending its first astronauts into space in 2003, China has made significant strides in its space program, becoming the third country to do so. It has also landed explorers on Mars and the far side of the moon, with plans to land humans on the moon by 2030.
The Shenzhou 20 mission is led by astronaut Chen Dong, on his third spaceflight, accompanied by fighter pilot Chen Zonglui and engineer Wang Ji. Unlike previous crews, the Shenzhou 20 mission consists entirely of male astronauts.
The incoming crew will replace the current astronauts on board the Chinese space station, staying onboard for approximately six months, like their predecessors.
Scheduled to reach Tianong after 6.5 hours, the spacecraft was launched into space atop the Chinese Long March 2 rocket at 5:17pm on March 2.
The current crew was sent last October and spent 175 days in space. They are set to return on April 29, following a brief overlap with the incoming crew. Tianong, completed in October 2022, has a capacity of up to six people.
During their mission, the astronauts will conduct medical and technological experiments, perform spacewalks for maintenance tasks, and install new equipment, as announced by the Manned Space Agency.
oOn Saturday afternoon in Central Park in Shenzhen, a teenage girl gag evacuates from a drizzle under a concrete canopy. Putting stacked bags of potato chips in front of them, they swarm around some smartphones and sing towards the Mandoppo ballad. Their laughter rang across the grass around them, until they drilled holes in a mechanical, lively sound. Someone ordered dinner.
A few meters away from the improvised karaoke session is the “Airdrop Cabinet.” This is one of over 40 things in Deep Shenzhen, run by Meituan, China’s largest food delivery platform. The Hungry Park offers everything you can order, from rice noodles to subway sandwiches and bubble tea.
Loaded with items from a shopping mall less than 3km, drones watch, listen, listen, hover over the delivery station before lowering and depositing the items in a sealed box that can only be unlocked by entering the customer’s phone number. Dinner is served with non-humans. Meituan aims to beat human delivery times by about 10%, perhaps for a journey through the clouds in a thin polystyrene box.
The drone will take off from the rooftop of a shopping mall in Shenzhen, China on April 3, 2025. Photo: Anthony Kwan/The Guardian
Drones are just a part of the broader robotics and artificial intelligence industry that China intends to expand this year.
With the trade war furious, demographic challenges are dragged into the economy, and the prospects for productive relationships with the world’s largest economy seem farther than ever. Chinese leaders see artificial intelligence as key to solving problems created by the shrinking workforce, upgrading its military power, and solving the source of public pride, especially if Chinese companies avoid US-led sanctions on core technologies. And as technology companies have tried to crack down on excessive wealth and influence outside of the control of the Xi Jinping state, which has been shunned by Chinese leaders for many years, Xi’s neighbors are welcomed by folds as they seek to restore confidence in the private sector and encourage domestic innovation.
In March, Prime Minister Li Qiang promised to “unleash the creativity of the digital economy” with a special focus on “embodied AI.” Guangzhou, including the deep Shenzhen high-tech hub, is at the forefront of this movement. The state government recently announced 60m yuan (£6.4m) in new funding for the innovation centre. In particular, Demi Shenzhen is known as China’s drone capital due to its progressive approach to drone regulation, allowing the “low-altitude economy” to develop faster than the rest of the country. China’s Civil Aviation Authority predicts the sector’s value will increase by 3.5TN Yuan by five times over the next decade.
Drones aren’t the only ones who promise or threaten the tempo of Chinese urban life. Humanoid robots are particularly lively. The highlights of this spring festival gala have been seen almost 1.7 billion times, A dance performed by a group of humanoid robots It was created by a company called Unitree. On Saturday, the world’s first humanoid vs humanity – half marathon – took place in the suburbs of Beijing.
The robots will be participating in Saturday’s race. Photo: Ng Han Guan/AP
Rui Ma, a Chinese technology analyst and investor based in San Francisco, said: This shift will enable industry growthIn 2025, it’s much faster than in the past few years. Reinforcement learning means training robots to learn from experience rather than relying on hard models, training humanoid robots in months rather than years, speeding up the pace of innovation. Toy robot dogs are already part of everyday life in China. At Yiwu’s wholesale market, a trade hub in Zhijiang province in eastern China, mothers stay with exporters beyond the price of eyelashes while children play with robotic dogs. In Streets in Shanghaiwoman walking robot dog. This carries a shopping basket on its back.
The drone run by Meituan, which has been loaded with products, will take off from the rooftop shopping at Shenzhen, China on April 3, 2025. Photo: Anthony Kwan/The Guardian
The development of China’s robotics industry is closely linked to advances in AI. For years, China has been catching up to the US. XI wants to promote economic growth through “new quality productivity” that includes advanced technology.
Many in Washington fear that the US lead is narrowing. One of the main tools in the US arsenal controls a critical part of the supply chain of semiconductors, the microchips used to train advanced AI models. The US has restricted exports of its most sophisticated chips to China. This is part of a strategy that former national security adviser Jake Sullivan described as “highfence” with the most strategically valuable technologies in the United States.
However, in January, a previously unknown Chinese company called Deepseek sets the Chinese technological scene and releases the R1, a massive linguistic inference model, to perform at a price that leads its US competitors. The model wiped out 1TN from Wall Street’s main technology index, causing a stock market crash as investors feared that US pole positions in high-tech races were no longer guaranteed.
“You can’t stress too much how crazy it is,” says MA.
Since then, China’s AI industry has been filled with optimism. As an answer to China’s long-term and sustainable growth, it was already being promoted by the government, and now the people are beginning to believe it, says Ma.
Meituan drones remove orders at the “Airdrop Cabinet” in Shenzhen, China. Photo: Meituan
Li Shuhao, a Guangzhou-based high-tech entrepreneur who founded AI marketing company TEC-DO in 2017, was in the US when the Deepseek moment happened. Suddenly, he says, “It was much easier to arrange an interview and a meeting with other AI scientists.”
“Deepseek is like a symbol of the oriental way of doing business,” says Li, a confessed “metal head” surrounded by electric guitars and drum kits in her Guangzhou office. He mentions a strategy by Deepseek founder Liang Wenfeng, who will fund it through his own hedge funds rather than seeking external venture capital funds. “This is how a typical Chinese entrepreneur thinks: survive first and then do something new.”
Deepseek has published the work as open source. This is a principle that the government has long supported and a move that encouraged the widespread adoption of the model. Robotics is a special beneficiary.
Technology is the top priority
The robot supply chain can be roughly divided into three areas: brain, body, and application of technology in the real world. China has long been confident in its capabilities in the latter two regions. The advanced supply chains of other high-tech industries, such as electric vehicles and autonomous drones, show that China has both the ability to produce large-scale industrial components and the ability to assemble them into complex commodities. However, once you solved the most difficult part of the puzzle, it was elusive to create a robotic brain that could learn human-like behavior and movements. You need sophisticated AI.
Deepseek’s R1 model is changing the game and hosting ways for domestic humanoid robot companies to keep up with their international competitors, Goldman Sachs analysts said in a recent memo. The fact that Deepseek’s open source model uses less advanced chips can help level the playing field for Chinese companies.
Engineers will train humanoid robots at the Humanoid Robot Innovation Centre in Shogan Park, Beijing, China on March 28, 2025. Photo: Beijing Youth Daily/VCG/Getty Images
The industry still has its challenges. AI models require a large amount of data to train. While LLM, used for things like chatbots, can draw out a vast universe of content, the Internet, the data in robotic AI models is relatively scarce info on how to physically move spaces and interact with objects and people.
Another sector in which China is focused, the car should be able to navigate six axes, or “degrees of freedom”, forward and rear, left and right, up and down, and rotations between these positions. The same goes for general robotics, such as Meituan’s food delivery loan. To enable humanoid robots to mimic humans on everyday tasks such as cooking, they need up to 60 degrees of freedom. There is a 27 H1 model of Unitree that caused a splash on Spring Gala.
A robot does not have to be completely humanoids to be useful. A wheel or humanoid robot with limited movement can take on automated ripe tasks, such as dangerous or repetitive factory work. Based in Shenzhen, Ubtech has already supplying humanoid robots to its car factories. With a shrinking workforce, China is keen to find ways to automate as much as possible.
The organizers, which was the Boao Forum for Asia last month, business meeting, were keen to cook Jianbing, Delicious pancakes are typical Chinese street food made with the robot arms of the booth, similar to the claws that collect toys packed in an arcade (the resulting snacks weren’t as crisp as humans made). Beijing’s parks have increased their surveillance capabilities by pasting cameras into autonomous buggies running along the path.
The humanoid robot will perform at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) Annual Meeting held in Beijing, China’s capital, on March 27, 2025. Photo: Xinhua/Rex/Shutterstock
The CEO of American chip maker Nvidia recently visited Beijing shortly after the US imposed new restrictions on the sale of AI chips to China.
According to state media-affiliated social media accounts, Jensen Fan’s unexpected visit was in response to an invitation from a trade agency.
China Central Television reported that Huang met with Ren Hongbin, the head of China’s Council to promote international trade.
The official English outlet of the Communist Party released a photo of Huang in Beijing, stating, “It’s three months since I promised to continue working with #China during my last visit.” The hashtag #OpportunityChina was included, previously used in a post promoting US-China exports.
This visit comes amidst a turbulent week for Nvidia. The recently announced US restrictions affect the shipment of the H20 DataCentre GPU, a specialized low-power version of Nvidia chips designed to comply with restrictions on sales to China under the Biden administration.
Amidst the ongoing race for AI dominance between the US and China, the US government informed Nvidia that the new rules aim to mitigate the risk of its products being utilized in Chinese supercomputers.
The company estimates that these new restrictions will cost around $5.5 billion (£4.2 billion) and experienced a 7% drop in its shares on Wednesday.
The tech industry has been under pressure due to US restrictions on high-tech supply to China and widespread tariffs. Nvidia’s shares decline is part of a broader trend in the sector which has seen many companies experiencing significant drops in recent weeks. Trump’s threats of separate tariffs on the global semiconductor industry further add to the uncertainty.
Following the announcement of the new Nvidia chip restrictions, semiconductor companies have pledged to invest up to $500 million in AI infrastructure in the US over the next four years.
Nvidia designs chips but outsources production to contractors like Taiwanese semiconductor manufacturers. TSMC, for instance, has committed to large-scale investment projects in the US, exempting them from tariffs. In response, the White House attributed Nvidia’s decision to “the Trump effect.”
Reportedly, Huang also met with Liang Wenfeng, the founder of Deepseek in Beijing, to discuss new chip designs for AI companies that would not trigger another US ban. Deepseek gained attention in January for its advanced AI chatbot developed with minimal investment, shaking up the tech industry and impacting global stock markets.
The US House of Representatives China Committee has raised concerns about Deepseek potentially using an export-controlled chip to power its AI app, posing a national security threat.
Huang has publicly stated that Nvidia is committed to advancing AI globally while complying with legal requirements and technological advancements under the Trump administration. He reassured reporters that the company will continue its progress in the field.
Huang’s visit to Beijing created a buzz on social media in China and Taiwan. As a Taiwanese celebrity, he was welcomed by a large number of fans on his recent visit, generating excitement and reports about his activities.
The chaos caused by Trump’s tariffs has raised concerns among global markets and governments, including US allies. Amidst changing tariff rates and negotiations, the focus remains on reshaping trade agreements to address trade imbalances and economic concerns.
Trump’s recent talks with Japan indicate a strategic approach to trade negotiations with various countries, signaling a priority for the US administration in reshaping global trade relations.
Nvidia has announced that it is expecting a $5.5 billion (£4.1 billion) impact following the ban imposed by Donald Trump’s administration on chip designers selling crucial artificial intelligence chips in China.
In an official statement released late Tuesday, the company disclosed that the H20 AI chip, specifically tailored for the Chinese market to comply with export regulations, will now require a special license for sale in China indefinitely.
The US government, engaged in a competition with China for AI supremacy, informed Nvidia that new regulations have been enacted to mitigate the risk of their products being utilized in Chinese supercomputers.
As a result, the chip manufacturer is set to incur $5.5 billion in losses for the financial quarter ending on April 27th due to its investment in H20 chips.
Nvidia, known for driving significant advancements in AI technology, has delivered substantial returns for investors, with its stock surging over 1,400% since 2020, making it one of the few trillion-dollar companies in the US.
However, the news on Tuesday caused Nvidia’s stock to fall by approximately 6% in after-hours trading, potentially wiping out billions of dollars in market value by Wednesday’s opening bell.
In Asia, chipmakers like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix from South Korea saw a 3% decline in their stocks overnight, while US competitors like senior equity microdevices dropped by 7% in after-hours trading.
Although the chip industry has been exempt from the 10% tariff that began on April 5th, Trump indicated this week that he plans to impose tariffs on imported semiconductors and mentioned that some companies in this sector may have flexibility.
The US Department of Commerce has recently launched an investigation into the impact of chip and drug imports on national security.
The US heavily relies on chip imports from Taiwan, with Trump previously imposing a 32% tariff on products from the country before suspending most tariffs last week.
Nvidia also revealed plans to invest up to $500 million in AI infrastructure in the US over the next four years to bolster its American manufacturing presence. While Nvidia designs chips, it outsources production to contractors, including Taiwanese semiconductor manufacturers.
Under the Biden administration, US officials had initially barred Nvidia and other AI chip manufacturers from selling advanced chips to China in October 2022. In response, Chinese authorities tightened controls over the tools and processors necessary for semiconductor production.
Nvidia stated on Tuesday that the US government will sell some of its artificial intelligence chips to China without a license and will require a license for future sales.
These restrictions mark the first major limitations imposed by President Trump’s administration on semiconductor sales overseas. This decision could lead to Nvidia’s sales to China diminishing in the near future, as the US has restricted the export of chips to its geopolitical rivals.
Nvidia has been striving to maintain sales to China amidst increasing government restrictions. In response to rules imposed by the Biden administration in 2022, Nvidia modified its main AI chip, the H100, to comply with the US government’s regulations. The resulting H20 chip has now become a product exclusively available in China.
NVIDIA is projected to incur a $5.5 billion expense against current quarterly revenues due to H20 inventory, purchase commitments, and related reserves.
The impact of these restrictions is more strategic than financial. Nvidia holds a dominant position in the semiconductor market for artificial intelligence systems. Selling chips to China is vital for its future, and losing access to this market could potentially benefit Huawei, a leading Chinese AI chip manufacturer, in challenging Nvidia globally.
“This decision will limit Nvidia’s reach in key markets and weaken its influence in the country,” stated Patrick Moorhead, a technology analyst at Moor Insights & Strategy. “Chinese companies may simply turn to Huawei as an alternative.”
Nvidia declined to provide a comment. The company’s stock price dropped over 5% in after-hours trading on Tuesday.
Commerce Department spokesperson Benno Kass announced on Tuesday that the government will be enforcing new export licensing requirements for NVIDIA H20 chips, AMD’s MI308 chip, and equivalents.
“The Commerce Department is dedicated to implementing the President’s directive to safeguard our national and economic security,” Kass remarked.
Nvidia announced changes to its regulatory filings on Tuesday, a day after earning praise from the White House for committing to invest $500 billion in US AI infrastructure. The company plans to begin manufacturing servers at its Houston plant and collaborate with a chip packaging company based in Arizona.
Despite these commitments, a regulatory submission revealed that NVIDIA will need to seek licenses from China for selling AI chips following notification from the Trump administration. The administration confirmed on Tuesday that the licensing requirements will remain in place indefinitely.
This development follows a meeting between Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and Trump at a $1 million Mar-a-Lago dinner per person. Speculation arose that the US government might relent on its plans to restrict Nvidia’s sales to China.
Since taking office, the Trump administration has vowed to crack down on US support for Chinese AI companies. The emergence of Chinese startup Deepseek in recent months, which developed an AI system at a fraction of the cost typically spent by US companies, has raised concerns in Washington.
During his nomination hearing, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick emphasized the need to prevent Chinese companies from leveraging American technology to compete against the US.
Nvidia reported $17 billion in sales to China last year. As US government restrictions continue, the company’s operations face significant challenges, with sales to China dropping from about a fifth of Nvidia’s revenue in 2023 to 13% last year.
In its filing, NVIDIA did not indicate the impact of the licensing requirements on future sales. Analysts suggest that stock may be limited as the H20 chips have been modified to match the performance of the H100 chip, which can still be sold by US and European companies.
The Chinese government has long been exerting control over the export of rare earths, a group of metals crucial for products like semiconductors and light. In the ongoing trade war with the US, China is taking further steps to restrict the market for these metals, potentially impacting American manufacturing and military capabilities. So, why are rare earths so important?
What are rare earths?
Rare earths consist of 17 types of metals across the periodic table, essential for various industries such as technology, energy, and transportation. Names like terbium, praseodymium, and dysprosium are important ingredients in advanced technologies.
These metals can be categorized into heavy and light rare earths, with heavy ones being rarer and selling in smaller quantities. Light rare earths like neodymium and praseodymium are crucial for creating magnets.
What are they used for?
Rare earths have diverse applications, from semiconductor chips powering AI to electric vehicle motors and military equipment. They also enhance heat resistance in products like magnets, glass, lights, and batteries, making them valuable for industries.
Some rare earths possess unique chemical properties that make them ideal for producing high-quality magnets, glass, lights, and batteries. Magnets made from rare earths are exceptionally powerful and essential for electric vehicles.
Does the US produce rare earths?
The US has only one operational rare earth mine in Mountain Pass, California, contributing about 15% to the global market. In the past, the US was a significant rare earth producer, but its production declined over the years compared to China.
Where do rare earths come from?
Rare earths are mined from rock deposits, with China dominating nearly 70% of the market. China’s control over rare earths’ production and export has geopolitical implications, impacting various industries worldwide.
What will the impact of China’s restrictions on rare earths?
If China restricts rare earth exports, American sectors like automotive may face production halts. The US military could also be impacted, leading to shortages of essential equipment like drones and missiles. Tech giants like Nvidia and Apple could also feel the effects.
Many rare earth mining businesses in China have been under private or foreign ownership, but the government’s efforts to consolidate the industry could lead to complete control over manufacturing and exports.
Following more than a week of tariffs on Chinese imports, the Trump administration released new rules on Friday that exempted smartphones, computers, semiconductors, and other electronic devices from certain fees. This move significantly lowered prices for high-tech companies like Apple and Dell, as well as benefiting consumers who purchase products like iPhones.
A message was issued by US Customs and Border Protection on Friday, listing the products that had previously been subjected to tariffs on Chinese goods. Certain exclusions were granted for modems, routers, flash drives, and other tech products not commonly manufactured in the US.
The exemption does not completely eliminate tariffs on electronic devices and smartphones. The administration previously imposed a 20% tariff on Chinese goods due to concerns about the country’s involvement in fentanyl trade. Additionally, tariffs on semiconductors, crucial components in electronic devices, are expected to increase.
This exemption marks a significant development in the ongoing trade war with China and is expected to have far-reaching effects on the US economy. Tech giants like Apple and Nvidia will benefit from avoiding heavy taxes that could have impacted their profits. Consumers rushed to purchase iPhones to avoid potential price hikes, relieving concerns about inflation and economic instability.
While the tariff relief provides temporary respite for the tech industry, the Trump administration has indicated plans for further trade investigations, particularly targeting semiconductors. The aim is to secure the US supply chain for vital technologies used in various products, including smartphones and automobiles.
President Trump’s shift in trade policy has implications for various industries, especially as it relates to China. The tech sector, in particular, has closely engaged with the administration to navigate the changing landscape of tariffs and taxes on imports. Apple CEO Tim Cook has been instrumental in lobbying for exemptions and advocating for US manufacturing of tech products.
As the trade tensions continue to evolve, the tech industry remains a focal point in the US-China trade relationship. Consumers may see fluctuations in prices for electronic devices as the two countries negotiate their trade terms.
Tesla has halted orders in China for two models previously imported from the US in response to the imposed tariffs due to Donald Trump’s trade war.
The company, led by Trump’s close ally Elon Musk, has removed the “Order Now” option for the Model S Saloon and Model X Sport Utility vehicles.
The reasons for these changes were not disclosed by Tesla, but they coincide with the escalating trade tensions between the US and China. As a result of the tit-for-tat tariff increases, the cost of imported vehicles from the US to China has become significantly higher compared to locally produced cars.
New orders for these models are no longer available on Wechat, a popular Chinese social media platform, according to Reuters. The “Order Now” button on Tesla’s US website for the Model S and Model X has been replaced by “available cars,” with some vehicles being accessible to Chinese buyers.
Since 2020, Tesla has been manufacturing Model 3 and Model Y cars at a large factory in Shanghai, reducing the impact of customs duties. However, the company’s supply chain may still be affected due to the trade tensions between the two countries.
Elon Musk, a key figure in the Trump administration, has been advocating for lower tariffs, which contradicts the policies implemented by Trump. This discrepancy in views could potentially impact Tesla’s operations and sales.
Recently, Tesla warned the US government about the potential negative effects of tariffs on American businesses. This development poses a significant economic challenge for Tesla, particularly in the European market where demand is declining.
Analysts suggest that Tesla, despite its high market value, is currently undervalued and facing a significant crisis that may require Musk to distance himself from the Trump administration.
Last Wednesday, the Trump administration believed there was a plan to save Tiktok.
With the Chinese owner of Tiktok and some of its US investorsOfficials in Washington said they were working together on a new ownership structure for the popular video app, and the four of them said they were familiar with the situation. The structure said it would help Tiktok meet the conditions of federal law that require apps to find new owners in order to address national security concerns or face a US ban.
Under the plan, new investors will own 50% of the new American Tiktok companies, while Chinese owners will hold less than 20%, the restrictions specified by the law are two. Byte Dance told the White House that Beijing is happy with the general structure, the two people said.
By Thursday morning, a summary of the draft executive order from Trump had been circulating, according to a copy viewed by The New York Times.
The plan then hit the wall. Baitedan, called the White House in the news: Now that President Trump has announced many tariffs on China’s imports, Beijing has not let Tiktok deals go ahead, the two said.
In response, Trump bought more time. On Friday, he suspended federal law enforcement and extended the deadline for the Tiktok contract to mid-June.
“The report says they made the transaction for Tiktok, not for a deal, but for a fairly close Tiktok. China then changed the transaction due to tariffs,” Trump told reporters Sunday to Air Force 1.
The outage highlights how video apps are plagued by the geopolitical struggle between the US and China over trade and technology advantages. It also reveals China’s power over Tiktok’s future in the US, raising questions about whether Tiktok’s deal will end.
“The parties are so proud to negotiate that we are stuck between two huge economies that are stabbing each other’s heads,” said Ampam Chander, a professor of law and technology who targeted Tiktok, a professor of law and technology at Georgetown University. “Tictok was a mouse that got caught up in his feet between these two elephants.”
The Chinese embassies in Washington, Tiktok and Baitedan did not respond to requests for comment. The White House introduced the Times to Trump’s post on true social that announced an extension of his for debate over the app.
The administration and ordinances were struggling the structure that allowed Tiktok’s biggest US investors, including the Atlantic General and the Susquehanna International Group, while government officials brought in new funds to dilute Chinese ownership of the app.
The interim terms of the transaction said new investors will own 50% of the new American Tiktok group. Current investors own 30% and Chinese ownersIt’s under 20%, two people on the issue said. Private equity giants like Blackstone and Silver Lake were acquiring stakes in new entities along with venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz.
The proposal is described in a long, detailed document aimed at investors, said three people with knowledge of the issue.
The two involved in the deal said there was more work to do. Certain potential new investors considered any transaction conditional and were subject to due diligence associated with large-scale transactions, they said.
China has always been a wild card to some extent. Before the president’s announcement on tariffs last week, Baitedan believed that Beijing was happy that he was together in Washington, and the two people are familiar with the issue. However, even before the tariff announcement, there was no guarantee that Beijing would provide informal blessings or formal approval.
Discussions about Tiktok can become even more complicated as the trade war between the two countries escalates. China launched retaliatory tariffs after Trump’s announcement, urging the president on Monday to warn the country on an additional 50% tariff if it persists.
Trump has repeatedly proposed considering lowering China’s tariffs in exchange for approval of the Tiktok deal.
Using tariffs for negotiations is “like a truly amazing effort to force foreign companies to sell,” Chander said.
However, the trade war could still be ongoing in June, he said.
Tiktok is part of it and keeps it unsold for most of the year.
On Friday, ByteDance confirmed for the first time that he was involved in negotiations with the US government regarding the future of the app, but ultimately there was no decision in the hands of other parties.
“There are important issues that need to be resolved,” a bytedance spokesman told reporters in an email. “The contract is subject to approval under Chinese law.”
Maggie Haberman contributed to the report from Washington.
Donald Trump has expressed his willingness to reduce tariffs on Chinese trade in exchange for the sale of Tiktok, a social media app used by 170 million Americans, by its Chinese parent company.
He acknowledged China’s involvement in any agreement, stating, “China will have to play a role in it, perhaps giving approval, I believe they will.” Trump mentioned the possibility of offering China a concession to facilitate the deal.
Trump’s remarks indicate that the sale of Tiktok is a priority for his administration and that tariffs are being used as a negotiation tool with Beijing.
Tiktok did not provide an immediate response to the situation.
Bytedance, the parent company of Tiktok, faces an April 5 deadline to find non-Chinese buyers for the app or risk a US ban on national security grounds that was established in January under the 2024 law.
Washington’s concerns about Chinese ownership of Tiktok have led to the current situation, with fears that Beijing could exploit the app for malicious purposes and gather data on Americans.
Recently, Trump imposed an additional 20% tariff on all imports from China, demonstrating his administration’s firm stance on trade negotiations.
Securing a deal without Chinese control has been a key focus in finalizing the Tiktok transaction, with tariffs used as leverage in negotiations with Beijing.
In his earlier statements, Trump had warned China that failure to approve US deals with Tiktok could result in further tariffs being imposed.
Vice President JD Vance anticipates that the terms of the agreement regarding Tiktok ownership will be settled by April 5th.
Reports indicate that a White House-led meeting between investors is working towards securing US business interests for video apps, involving major Chinese stakeholders.
The fate of Tiktok, a widely-used app in the US, has been uncertain since the bipartisan decision to sell it by January 19th.
After initial turbulence in January, the app was temporarily banned but resumed operations shortly after Trump’s term began. He subsequently extended the deadline for the sale until April 5th and hinted at the possibility of further extensions.
The intense involvement of the White House in these trade discussions is unprecedented, resembling the role of an investment bank.
Critics argue that the ban on Tiktok infringes on Americans’ freedom of speech by restricting access to foreign media, potentially violating the First Amendment of the US Constitution.
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