Articles by Liu Liu

Hooked on tobacco: Why China can’t quit despite decades of control

As public fights over smoking ignite fierce debate, China faces a deep structural dilemma: protecting public health without stubbing out a lucrative fiscal pillar. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu finds out what keeps China hooked on smoking.

Liu Liu

[Big read] From spare parts to world champions: China’s motorcycle shock rise

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer ZXMOTO’s win in the World Superbike Championship has captured international attention towards China’s “Motorcycle Capital” Chongqing. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu speaks with motorcycle enthusiasts and industry insiders to trace the industry’s breakthrough, growth and trajectory.

Liu Liu

Will China’s drone crackdown stall the low-altitude economy?

China has tightened regulations on drones, leading to a decline in sales. However, Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu finds out from drone enthusiasts and industry experts that while the consumer market may be affected in the short term, the low-altitude economy is slated for growth in the long run.

Liu Liu

Why China’s youth are swapping luxury for local brands

With young consumers in China looking beyond established Western luxury brands, homegrown brands are increasingly winning people over with their designs and quality. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu finds out more.

Liu Liu

AI salaries soar, but China can’t find enough experts

China’s AI sector is booming, with top salaries reaching millions of RMB, yet companies still struggle to fill roles. Lianhe Zaobao’s Liu Liu examines how firms are wooing talent and whether universities can keep pace.

Liu Liu

[Big read] From river mahjong to viral food: How influencers put Chongqing on the map

Chongqing has gained a reputation for being a city of layers — in every sense — just waiting to be discovered and savoured. In this era of social media, many influencers have played a part in boosting Chongqing’s popularity. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu explores the charm of the city.

Liu Liu

No children, no regrets? Inside China’s first generation of childless ageing

As China’s first DINKs (“Dual Income, No Kids”) grow old, their lives are thrust into the spotlight. From a retired state-owned enterprise worker who says money and health are enough, to others who refuse to speak, their stories reveal pride, pain and unease beneath the debate, reports Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu.

Liu Liu

Why alleged scam kingpin Chen Zhi was sent to China, not the US

Despite facing criminal charges in the US, Prince Group founder and chairman Chen Zhi was deported to China. His case sheds light on Cambodia’s geopolitical calculations — and why Beijing’s pull outweighed Washington’s claims. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu looks at the implications.

Liu Liu

[Big read] ‘Made in Singapore’ to bypass US tariffs? Not so easy

In order to deal with the uncertainties brought about by the US’s tariff wars, companies are seeking ways to evade tariffs and obscure the true country of origin for their products, in particular through Singapore. However, Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu notes that Singapore’s stringent compliance measures ensure that companies cannot take advantage of their association with the country.

Liu Liu

[Big read] Chinese kindergartens struggle with falling birth rates

Lianhe Zaobao journalist Liu Liu speaks with industry insiders about the dire state of China’s kindergartens amid the population crisis.

Liu Liu

[Big read] Singapore a testing ground for Chinese dance dramas going global

Singapore is becoming a premier overseas destination for popular Chinese performances like A Mere Touch of Green and Wing Chun, but even so, local interest remains tepid, observes Lianhe Zaobao journalist Liu Liu.

Liu Liu

China's youths seek divorce and retirement buddies in uncertain times

As youths in China come into their own, they are finding their own ways to make connections. The latest trend is seeking activity buddies, or dazi culture, which offers companionship based on common interests and needs.

Liu Liu