China

Trump announces 50% tariffs on countries supplying Iran with weapons. Russia and China explicitly warned as primary targets amid ongoing Hormuz ceasefire negotiations.

China GDP grew 4.5% in Q1 2026, weakest since 1990 outside COVID years. US-China trade war, Iran war disruptions, and domestic property crisis creating multiple headwinds. Beijing facing pressure to boost domestic consumption as 5% growth target at risk.

Meta's acquisition of Chinese-founded AI startup Manus for over $2 billion highlights the escalating battle for AI talent, as the startup relocated to Singapore before sealing its deal with the US tech giant.