Politics
A decade on, 14 nations reaffirm a South China Sea ruling China rejects
A 14-nation statement reaffirming the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling has drawn a sharp rebuke from Beijing, underscoring how the decade-old award remains a focal point of strategic rivalry even as a new dispute over the Batanes Islands emerges. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu speaks to academics for an analysis.
Liu Liu
13 Jul 2026
Economy
The durian express: How Southeast Asia flooded China’s market
A flood of Southeast Asian durians has sent prices tumbling in China, making the once-costly fruit affordable for many. But what is driving the drop, and can it be sustained? Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu finds out.
Liu Liu
13 Jul 2026
Society
Million-dollar overseas degrees, entry-level Chinese salaries
For decades, studying abroad was seen as a ticket to opportunity. Now, more Chinese graduates are returning home — only to find that foreign credentials carry less weight than before. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu examines the issue.
Liu Liu
08 Jul 2026
Economy
Built to impress: Why China’s tourism boom leaves white elephants behind
China’s tourism boom has produced a wave of ambitious megaprojects across the country, but many have stalled or failed to attract visitors, leaving behind costly white elephants. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Liu Liu reports.
Liu Liu
10 Jun 2026
Economy
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
25 May 2026
Economy
[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
08 May 2026
Economy
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
05 May 2026
Society
[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
19 Mar 2026
Society
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
16 Jan 2026
Politics
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
12 Jan 2026