China News Brief — September 10, 2025
Key Developments
China Condemns Israeli Airstrike on Doha
China’s foreign ministry strongly condemned the recent airstrike by Israel on Doha targeting Hamas political leaders, calling it a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty. China urged de-escalation and criticized external powers deemed to have biased policies. Reuters+1
Three-Month Crackdown on False Auto Marketing
The industry ministry launched a campaign targeting misleading marketing, price wars, and negative online content in the auto sector. The move addresses slower growth in EV/hybrid vehicle sales and concerns over virality in online platforms damaging reputations. Reuters
Anti-Dumping Tariffs on EU Pork Imports
China imposed tariffs of up to 62.4% on certain pork products from the European Union, especially offal items. This action is in response to EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and part of evolving trade conflicts between China and the EU. Reuters+1
China and U.S. Officials Stress Dialogue Amid Military-Regional Tensions
Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun held a video call with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. While the U.S. reiterated that it does not seek conflict or regime change, China emphasized peaceful coexistence, respect, and opposition to external provocation in sensitive areas like the South China Sea. Reuters+1
Implications
China’s condemnations and tariff measures reflect its strategy to defend sovereignty, assert legal-economic tools, and balance criticism of U.S. or Western alignments. Ongoing military-civil communications with the U.S. suggest Beijing is recalibrating risk management but wants to signal firmness.
Regulatory scrutiny in consumer and sector-specific markets (autos, imports) is increasing—firms should audit marketing practices and supply chain exposures. Tariff escalations with EU producers underscore growing trade risk. Also expect reputational risk if caught on the wrong side of political cross-currents.
