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This is the Beijing hour.
Examining the events that impact and shape China and the rest of the world.
This is the Beijing hour, one hour of news and information brought to you every weekday now here's your host. Dohong Yi with you on this Friday, April, 18th, 2025.
You're listening to the Beijing hour coming to you live from the Chinese capital.
On today's program, the Chinese president concludes the state visit to Cambodia with the two sides pledging to build an all -weather community with a shared future.
The international monetary fund warns of the consequences of surging U .S. tariffs.
Ukraine and the United States signed a memorandum on a minerals deal.
In business, the fifth China International Consumer Products Expo.
In sports, Manchester United reaches the semifinals in the Europa League.
In cultural and entertainment, China's documentary heritage collections enter UNESCO's Memory of the World Register.
Now, today's top stories.
Chinese president Xi Jinping is calling on China and Cambodia to carry forward the iron cland friendship forged by the older generation of Chinese leaders and King Norodom Tsehanouk.
He met King Norodom Sihanouk during a state visit and said the two sides should endow their community with a shared future, with new connotations of the time.
President Xi also met Queen Mother Norodom Mani Neath Sihanouk and held her as the promoter of the China -Cambodia friendship.
He welcomed the Queen Mother to visit China any time.
While holding talks with Cambodian Senate President Hengshan, President Xi urged both sides to make good use of a new strategic dialogue between the foreign ministers and defence ministers.
The two countries agreed to build a China -Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era following talks between President Xi and Prime Minister Hermannett.
The two leaders also designated 2025 as the China -Cambodia Year of Tourism.
Thampo has more on the Chinese leader's state visit to Cambodia.
This is the president Xi Jinping's second visit to Cambodia in nine years and he arrived in Phnom Penh on Thursday At noontime, anyway.
He was welcomed by the Cambodian king Nodong Sihamuni at the airport and later in the day president Xi Jinping met with the Cambodian King Senate President Hoon Sen and Prime Minister Hoomanet on Thursday during the meetings with the Cambodian top leaders She said that China and Cambodia set a model of equality, mutual trust and win -win cooperation between countries of different sizes.
And building a China -Cambodian community with a shared future is a choice of history and the people from two countries.
And President Xi Jinping expect that both sides would strengthen the China -Cambodian diamond hexagon cooperation framework, enhancing political trust, promoting high quality cooperation and increasing security and that's going to lead to more exchanges between the people of China and Cambodia benefiting both countries and contributing to peace and stability in the region and beyond and also president Xi Jinping and the Cambodian Prime Minister witnessed the exchanges of more than 30 bilateral documents covering areas including production and supply chain, artificial intelligence, development assistance,
customs inspection and quarantine, as well as health and news.
That was Tung Bu reporting from PenoPen.
Professor Songqing Ren at the school of Asian Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University, says China -Cambodia ties are at a new level.
Firstly, the relationship between China and Cambodia has further depend on the new height.
China Cambodia both have strategic significance in each other's diplomatic system, and both sides have deepened the building or community with a shared future and jointly demonstrated that to the world that the essence of the bilateral relations or peaceful existence and one -on -one cooperation.
Secondly, the upgrading of bilateral relations will certainly continue to promote the all -around cooperation between China and Cambodia, China and Cambodia are both members of the global South.
The countries are preparing to deepen bonds among their people through the China -Cambodia year of tourism.
Dr. Azmi Hasan and the Malaysia National Council of Professors says cultural exchanges will expand good understanding to all levels.
It's a good announcement for tourism to be flowing between Cambodia and China.
But again, I think during the top leadership, for example, President Xi and also Prime Minister who, I think they understand each other, they trust each other, but again, we need to trickle down this trust, this good cooperation to the people, to, I guess, the tourism sector.
For example, Malaysia, 2026 is our tourism year and we expect seven million Chinese tourists to come to Malaysia.
And I think Chinese tourists in Malaysia, they feel comfortable, I think that the most important thing that tourism plays a very critical part not only for Cambodia from Malaysia but all other ASEAN, and we welcome Chinese tourists to ASEAN nations." Tourism officials in Cambodia expect more than a million trips from China this year.
In Cambodia, there are over a hundred thousand people studying Chinese.
Hoang Fei spoke with the director of the Confucius Institute in Phnom Penh about language and cultural ties.
At a recent meeting on neighborhood diplomacy, President Xi said China's relations with neighboring countries are at their best, despite global uncertainties.
What's your take, especially with U .S. tariffs also affecting Cambodia?
China and Cambodia share long -standing friendship.
Chinese companies have created jobs and improved living standards.
We've seen major infrastructure projects, highways, bridges, airports and more scholarships for students to study in China.
many in return with better language skills and expanded career options.
We've noticed more Cambodians are learning Chinese.
In fact, Duolingo ranks Cambodia as the most enthusiastic country for learning Chinese.
Why is that? It is both emotional and practical.
Cambodians are fond of China.
And our ties have grown stronger across politics, economics, culture and education.
Chinese speakers often earn much higher salaries than those who only speak English.
Our Confucius Institute works closely with the local government.
About 90 % of our classes are held in ministries like the Prime Minister's Office, Defense, Senate, Foreign Affairs and Culture.
We send teachers directly to those departments.
Our main campus here also serves university students, civil servants, and even monks.
Why is Chinese important for Cambodian officials today?
Many reach out to us themselves.
As ties with China deepen, they fuel that learning Chinese helps them communicate better with their counterparts and work more efficiently.
That was Thay Ng Bong Chan on Cambodia embracing the Chinese language and culture.
Friday marks the 70th anniversary of the 1955 Asian African Conference.
The Bandung Conference in Indonesia brought together 29 nations, many of which were newly independent states emerging from colonialism.
The gathering fostered a spirit of unity, friendship, and cooperation.
During his Southeast Asia tour this week, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized deepening cooperation to build a community with a shared future for mankind.
Chen Langyo spoke with Tehran Times editor Shaharow Sai about the Bandung spirit in modern times.
A 10 -Point declaration was adopted at the Bandung Conference was the goal of promoting world peace and cooperation.
Well, given the current global challenges, what relevance does the implementation of the 10 -Point declaration have today?
The recent comments that were made by Chinese President Xi Jinping have thrown a spotlight on the streets, on the declaration of the Bangdong Conference.
President Xi said before starting his three nation tour to Southeast Asia, that China should establish a community with a shared future with its neighbors.
What President Xi said was exactly in line with the declaration of the Bangdong Conference, Because it was the declaration of the Bandon Conference was its biggest achievement that called for promoting peace and stability.
And what President Xi Jinping is calling for right now, in fact, highlights the importance of that declaration, and China's commitment to holding those principles and even highlighting its sprints.
So how do you think China and Iran can better work together to fulfill the Bandung spirit?
As you know, Iran and China are among the 29 countries that attended the Bandung Conference in 1955.
Both Iran and China are members of BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
These opportunities are very important because they provide Tehran and Beijing with a chance to promote their cooperation in order to exemplify the ideals of the Bandung Conference.
Moreover, China's Death on Road initiative can also provide an opportunity for Iran and China.
China has played a significant role in promoting multilateralism.
Over the past year, China has played an influential role in promoting peace and security, in particular in the Middle East. China's initiative to broker rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia exactly brought to fore China's commitment to the 10 principles of the Bandung Conference and its declaration because the Bandung Declaration called for building bridges among nations and called on them to settle their differences and further promote their cooperation and collaboration.
So I can say that China's role is exactly in line with the spirit of the Bandung Declaration and close the line of its same principles." That was Tehran -based Shahar Rosayi on the Bandung spirit remaining relevant for 50 years.
Coming up in the show, the International Monetary Fund warns of the consequences of surging US tariffs.
Share Desperation, Mutual staff, and the regional stability.
China and its neighbors Live in Amity.
Inheritance, innovation and integration.
Asian values cherish inclusive development.
We travel through Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia.
A journey that celebrates our bonds with decades of diplomatic ties and centuries of friendly exchanges.
12 minutes into the hour.
U .S. President Donald Trump says there will be a trade deal with Europe.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Maloney is equally confident as the two leaders met at the White House.
She invited Trump to visit Rome and said the U .S. president will consider meeting representatives from the European Union.
Nathan King reports.
is on the potential for a trade deal.
Remember the 20 % tariff was paused on the European union.
There's so far a 10 % tariff plus the autos and a few other things, but both of them suggested that the deal would be done before the 90 -day pause is up.
Oh there'll be a trade deal 100 % oh well you think there won't be of course there'll be a trade deal.
Very much, they want to make one very much and we're going to make a trade deal, like fully expected but it'll be a fair deal.
I'm sure we can make a deal and I'm here to help on that I cannot look the deal in the name of the European Union.
My goal would be invite the President Trump to pay an official visit to Italy and understand if there's a possibility when it comes to organise also such a meeting with Europe?
The question is now whether Maloney can go back to Europe and bring others together.
She's offered an invitation to Donald Trump to pay a visit.
There's going to be a lot of flashpoints, not just on tariffs and trade, also on Russia.
Maloney was adamant to say that Russia had been the aggressor in the Ukraine conflict.
Here at the White House that's differing view.
Even though there's a cultural political affinity between these two leaders don't necessarily think it's all plain sailing.
That was Nathan King outside the White House.
The CEO of French luxury conglomerate, LVMH, has warned that unresolved trade tensions between the European Union and the United States could seriously hurt European industries.
Bernard are not called for a free trade zone between the two sides.
I'm in favor of the idea of trying to create a free trade zone between Europe and the United States, even though I do not know if it will be possible.
It's not always easy, because Europe is not led by a political power, but by a bureaucratic power that spends its time issuing regulations that unfortunately apply to all member states.
And sometimes countries like France add even more rows, making things more complicated and penalizing many other industries.
The EU has long pushed for a 0 for 0 trade agreement with the US, with both sides dropping tariffs.
But US President Donald Trump rejected the offer.
LVMH shares fell 7 .8 % this week, following a drop in first quarter sales.
The US accounts for a quarter of the group's total sales.
The International Monetary Fund has warned that surging U .S. tariffs will weaken the global economy and push up inflation this year.
Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva says the Trump administration's sharp increases in duties have caused global uncertainty to spike.
Prices jumped up when global supply chains were interrupted.
Many blame the international economic system for the perceived lack of fairness in their lives.
Trade distortions, tariffs and non -tariff barriers have fed negative perceptions of a multilateral system seen to have failed to deliver a level playing field.
Xi adds that the uncertainty caused by tariff increases could be costly and that rising trade barriers have an immediate impact on growth.
The IMF will quantify the costs in its new World Economic Outlook coming next week.
Georgiyeva says their new growth projections will include notable markdowns but not recession and that they will also see markups to the inflation forecasts for some countries.
Organizers of the China International Consumer Products Expo say participants of three matchmaking events have reached 52 signing intents worth 92 billion yuan, or more than 12 billion U .S. dollars.
Exhibitors brought their latest products and ideas to southern China.
Du Yu -sih brings us some highlights from the event in Hainan and the conclusion of the expo.
This year's X will actually feature several major things digital consumption, domestic and international consumer products and the fashion trend.
The Tech Pavilion is definitely tracking the largest crowd showcasing the science fiction conception coming to reality from exoskeletons to advance a robotic.
On the consumer side, many domestic exporters are introducing their international standard products to enthusiasts.
local buyers. Meanwhile, exhibitors from over 71 countries is introducing international products ranging from garment food, domestic, cosmetic and makeup offering Chinese consumer a wide range of global selection.
And adding to the excitement, ultimately the fashion lovers can now enjoy the fashion runway show right here at the expo.
So with multiple brands offering their unique That was Du Yuzi reporting.
The Hainan free -trade port is set to launch independent customs operations by the end of the year.
The initiative is a crucial step in a broader strategy to establish Hainan as a premier high -level free -trade port by 2050.
Most goods entering the Southern Chinese island are duty -free.
Additionally, Hainan has introduced more open visa policies, attracting foreign talent and enhancing business and tourism opportunities.
The zero -tariff policy opens new doors for international suppliers.
Wanai Chiang has more.
While Trump's tariffs drama cast a shadow over global trade, a different story unfolds at the fifth Sainan expo.
Chinese buyers are now turning to new international suppliers and American products are no longer the only option.
Since the US -China trade war began in 2018, we have stopped importing American soybeans.
In fact, we now have several alternative sources, mainly Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Canada.
Thanks to the zero -tariff policy of the Hainan Free Trade Port, our output value this year is expected to exceed 8 billion.
South African wine is well positioned to replace many high -quality wines from Europe and the United States.
In terms of quality, production standards, processing and flavor profile, it may even better cater to the preferences of Chinese consumers.
We are ready to adapt the realities of US -China trade tensions and confident in our ability to source stronger, more suitable alternatives.
As Chinese buyers seek alternatives beyond traditional US markets, they're not just finding replacements – they're discovering upgrades.
More than 80 % of our beef comes from British breeds like Angus and Hereford. It's very high quality product and what really caused the attention of a foreign of high -nine is that it not only a touristic destination but an international hub for business and you can see it in the trade show you know wide range of different brands from abroad.
For now we brought South African wines to the expo.
There's been some wine tastings happening.
People have been enjoying, there's been orders that have already been coming through, so I think wine is going to be definitely one of the biggest products that we would be able to export to China.
The trade war that's happening with the USA and a lot of countries, including China, I think that's quite sad to see.
I think China China has always been open to doing business fairs same as South Africa just doing business fair and equitable.
At this year's Hainan expo we see China diversifying its import sources, it's not just about tariffs, it's a market driven choice.
With Hainan open policies, global suppliers now get better access to the Chinese bus consumer market.
That was One -Eye Chien reporting from Hainan.
You're listening to the Beijing Hour.
Coming up, Ukraine and the United States sign a memorandum on mineral steel.
Three countries, one tour, and a clear message from Beijing.
President Xi Jinping touched down in Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia this week, marking one of his most strategic Southeast Asian tours in years.
What's behind the charm offensive?
While the U .S. is fueling global confusion and frustration with its tariff war, China and its Southeast Asian partners are trying to inject global cooperation and stability into global growth.
Let's take a whirlwind visit to understand what it means for China, Southeast Asia and the world on this week's chat lounge, wherever you listen to podcasts, and CGTN Radio.
A Ukrainian official says the country and the United States have signed a memorandum as an initial step towards clinching an agreement on developing minerals in Ukraine.
First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Sveridenko says the document paves the way for an economic partnership agreement and an investment fund for the reconstruction of Ukraine.
The official expressed hope that the fund will become an effective tool for attracting investment in the reconstruction process, modernizing infrastructure, supporting business, and creating new economic opportunities.
U .S. President Donald Trump says his country and Ukraine could sign the minerals and economic cooperation deal as soon as next week.
Power company Luma Energy says nearly half the homes and businesses it serves in Puerto Rico were without power on Thursday.
A widespread blackout struck the island a day earlier and left hospitals and airports in the dark.
Puerto Rico's electrical system has remained fragile since two powerful hurricanes in 2017.
us that all of Puerto Rico is suffering from this and it keeps happening frequently.
Businesses bear a heavy financial burden as a result of these constant disruptions.
What's happening is a general blackout, which is outrageous because we pay for electricity service.
Puerto Rico's energy crisis worsened dramatically after Hurricane Maria devastated the island in 2017, leaving many without power for nearly a year.
And this brings back maybe some PTSD, some post -traumatic stress disorder from the hurricanes, the smell of diesel, not being able to perform your daily routine.
And what's worse is not having an ounce of a hope on when is the power going to come back.
Nor if you're going to be able to be in a sustainable environment for the next couple of days.
Despite privatizing the energy sector Puerto Rico's power problems persist. University Professor and economist Antonio for knows who is also a resident sees broader implications in these times of economic uncertainty where you know with everything with this administration with tariffs and the stock market, for this to happen diminishes the government's credibility for our industrial policy.
If Puerto Rico wants to come back as we were in the 70s a power player for industrial and manufacturing, this cannot happen ever again.
Luma Energy, responsible for the island's power transmission and distribution, estimates full service restoration will take 48 to 72 hours.
The governor expressed outrage on Thursday.
This is a shame for the people of Puerto Rico, that we have a problem of this magnitude and transmission, and that the entire island is without electricity.
This cannot be. Nor is it the Puerto Rico we want.
I will not allow this to continue.
But the outages keep happening, including another widespread blackout just four months ago on New Year's Eve.
The ongoing crisis is exacerbating Puerto Rico's population exodus, with more Puerto Ricans now living on the mainland than on the island itself.
That was Nitza Soledad Perez on the recurring energy shortage in Puerto Rico.
The force commander of the UN mission in South Sudan has warned that the situation in the result in a civil war.
Lieutenant General Mohan Subramanian says South Sudan cannot afford to undergo another civil war.
This country has suffered two civil wars before its independence and two after its independence for prolonged durations from 1954 till about 2018.
There is no appetite for more suffering in the population.
We have suffered a lot due to civil wars so we have to stop the civil war at whatever cost. He adds that facilitating humanitarian assistance in the country is also critical as nearly three -quarters of the population needs aid.
In addition to this, we have to ensure that in a country where 9 .3 million out of 13 million population are dependent upon humanitarian aid of some sort or the other, and about 7 .2 million people are dependent on it in a very acute manner, that if they are not provided support they may face death.
You know, in such a condition, creating conditions conducive for delivery of humanitarian aid is also a priority for the mission.
The commander also says the mission will continue to protect innocent civilians trapped in the conflict, including the internally displaced people.
The mission has deployed forces in volatile areas to prevent the occurrence of violence.
Some astronomers in the U .K. have found possible chemical signs of life, and a planet outside the solar system, but they caution more work is needed to confirm their findings.
The research detected evidence of two compounds in the planet's atmosphere that on Earth are only produced by living organisms. It says the discovery is the strongest signal yet of life on another planet.
Astrophysicist Niko Mathu -Sudan with Cambridge University Institute of Astronomy says further research is needed to rule out errors or the possibility of other processes besides living organisms that could produce the compounds.
The planet is 124 light -years away from Earth, and it s more than double Earth s size and over eight times more massive.
Now, it s 28 past the hour, let s check the weather.
Beijing is down to 8 on Friday evening.
Saturday will be cloudy with a high of 21.
Nanquang is 21 tonight, tomorrow will see slight rain with a high of 26.
Elsewhere in Asia, Islamabad is 18 this evening, Saturday will see slight rain with a high of 33, Vintiane is 24 overnight, tomorrow will see slight rain with a high of 36, Penelpan is 25 overnight, tomorrow slight rain and 34.
In Africa, Nairobi will see moderate rain with a high of 27 on Saturday.
Now it's time for a short break.
So far this hour. The Chinese president has concluded a state visit to Cambodia, with the two sides pledging to build an all -weather community with a shared future in the new era.
The International Monetary Fund has warned of the consequences of surging U .S. tariffs.
Do Hongyu with you, stay with us here on the Beijing Hour.
Can you hear the heartbeat of our world?
It's vibrant and pulsating with the essence of life itself.
From the stem of trees to the gurgle of rivers, from the silent strength of mountains to the icy whispers of glaciers.
Even the solid ground beneath our feet.
Right there, in the midst of all, beats the heart of humanity.
What if those other heartbeats were to stop?
Would ours keep on ticking?
Ever wondered what's actually going on in Africa through the perspective of an African?
How are things really going between China and Africa?
What's the narrative of this relationship?
Well get a perspective with China Africa Talk.
Hear from African diplomats, entrepreneurs, academics, Chinese natives, and more.
Get on our wavelength every week to find out what's real with China Africa Talk.
Find us on your favorite podcast. We'll see you there.
Examining the events that impact and shape China and the rest of the world.
This is the Beijing Hour.
One hour of news and information brought to you every weekday.
with you, on this Friday.
Still to come, In Business, the fifth China International Consumer Products Expo.
In Sports, Manchester United reaches the semi -finals in the Europa League.
In Courtland Entertainment, the 15th Beijing International Film Festival kicks off.
To contact us, you can e -mail radio at cgtn .com, or follow our ex -account at cgtnradio.
Now first checking today's headlines.
Here's Tianyu. Thank you, Hongyu Chinese president Xi Jinping has wrapped up his first state visit to Cambodia since 2016 He is now back in Beijing This tour came as part of the leader's first overseas trip this year that also brought him to Vietnam and Malaysia President Xi and Cambodian leaders agreed to build an all -weather China -Cambodian community with a shared future in a new era They also designated 2025 as the China -Cambodian year of tourism An official on the Chinese mainland is urging the business community in Taiwan to resist external risks and challenges.
State Council Taiwan Affairs Office Chief Song Tao told representatives of Taiwan business people that the U .S. tariff war would not shake the fundamentals and positive trajectory of the mainland's economy.
He expressed hope that Taiwan businesses will remain confident and engaging cross -strait exchanges and cooperation.
The representative said they will participate in the new development pattern and seek new opportunities.
Hamas says it's ready to immediately begin negotiations on a deal to swap all Israeli hostages with an agreed upon number of Palestinian prisoners.
The group says the deal aims to completely stop the war in Gaza.
Israel ended a two -month ceasefire with Hamas and resumed deadly air and ground assaults on Gaza on March 18, leaving around 1 ,700 Palestinians dead and over 4 ,400 others injured.
Iran's Atomic Chief says Tehran expects the International Atomic Energy Agency to maintain neutrality and professionalism about the nuclear talks between Iran and the US.
Atomic Energy Organization President Mohammad Eslami has met IAEA chief Rafael Grossi to resolve differences.
Grossi said the nuclear watchdog is in touch with a U .S. representative engaged in indirect talks over Iran's nuclear program.
He also said the IAEA is willing to act as a bridge.
Tehran and Washington held their first nuclear talks in Oman last week.
The second round is set for Rome this weekend.
A UN spokesperson says the UN views the second round of negotiations between the US and Iran as a good sign.
Stefan Dejaric says the UN hopes the talks this weekend will yield positive results.
The two sides will discuss Tehran's nuclear issues and Washington's sanctions.
Iran and the US described the first round of discussions as constructive.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israel will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons as Tehran and Washington renew discussions on nuclear issues.
The United States, Ukraine and Europe have sat at the same negotiating table for the first time since US President Donald Trump took office in January.
They met in France to discuss peace in Ukraine.
French Foreign Minister Jean -Noël Barro said a lasting peace can only be achieved with the consent and contribution of Europeans.
News channel LCI says another round talks will take place in London next week.
Harvard students and faculty have gathered on campus to protest US president Donald Trump's threats to revoke the university's ability to host international students and to withdraw its tax -exempt status.
It's incredibly scary and I've talked to so many international friends who are scared of speaking up and at this point, even if you don't speak up just because you go to Harvard, you might get deported from this country.
It is incredibly scary for people.
The independence of the university is absolutely essential to doing the good work that we do in science, in medicine, in social science, in the humanities.
It is a condition for free thought and the search for truth.
The Department of Homeland Security has ordered the school to turn over detailed records of foreign student visa holders' illegal and violent activities.
The federal government has frozen more than 2 billion dollars in grants and contracts to the Ivy League Institution.
It is the first university to openly defy the government's demands related to activism on campus.
And finally, US President Donald Trump has launched a series of attacks against Federal Reserve Chair Jeremy Powell, accusing the central bank chief of playing politics by not cutting interest rates.
Trump also hinted at moving to firepower saying power's termination cannot come fast enough On Wednesday, Powell signaled that the Fed will keep its key interest rate unchanged He also reiterated that Trump's tariffs would likely raise inflation and slow the economy which could make it harder to cut rates anytime soon Trump and members of his economic team have said they would like longer -term interest rates to fall which would make it cheaper for Americans to borrow to buy homes, cars, and appliances.
Thank you very much, that was Tianyu with headlines.
Coming up in business, the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo.
The Beijing hour, your window on China and the rest of the world.
37 into the hour turning to business, here's Wang Zihang.
Thank you, Hongyu. Friday saw a mixed picture on the mainland stock market.
the Shanghai Composite was a little below flat while the Shenzhen component gained about 0 .2%.
The real estate and mining industries led the gainers while industries related to logistics and tourism saw a clear decline.
Elsewhere in China, the Hong Kong stock market climbed higher with the Hang Seng Index surging over 1 .6%.
Meantime, the Nikkei also gained over 1 % amid strong corporate earnings in Japan.
The fifth China International Consumer Products Expo has concluded in the southern island of Hainan.
Over 1 ,700 companies and 4 ,200 consumer brands from 71 countries and regions participated in the event, making it the largest in the event's history.
The event has attracted over 60 ,000 buyers, a 10 % increase from the last edition.
Organizers have held over 60 events including product launches.
The exhibition also featured matchmaking activities resulting in 92 billion yuan or 13 billion US dollars worth of potential partnerships.
Products from Southeast Asia have captivated visitors at the event.
JiJoo has more. Cashews, pepper and rice were among the star products on display from Roam De Groo, an agricultural trader from Cambodia attending the expo for the second time.
Cambodia's favourable weather and soil conditions make it an ideal environment for cashew cultivation.
Project manager Liu Pan of Rongde said the M -23 cashew is one of the major products the group is promoting.
The traditional slow roasting method used in Cambodia helps preserve the natural taste of the nut.
Cambodia's cashews stand out because of where they are grown.
The type we are growing now is the M23 strain which was developed in Cambodia.
One of the best things about this cashew variety is that it has less oil than peanuts and other nuts, making it a healthier choice.
To tap into the huge Chinese market, Romde has established a strong collaboration with food manufacturers in China.
With raw materials supplied directly from Cambodia, manufacturers handled the processing and selling.
As the manager of Guangkang Food, an agro -food manufacturer from south -west China, Liu Yong sees this cooperation as complimentary.
To strengthen the partnership, Liu hopes to find ways to meet growing demand from Chinese customers.
Our goal is to eventually set up a joint supply base for raw materials in Cambodia with Rongde.
This will help make sure we have a steady supply chain for domestic market.
In the future, we plan to increase the import of these products and grow our operations so we can reach even more consumers.
High -quality products are always welcomed by global customers.
Liu Pan with Rongde has already made a major deal at the CS Expo.
We have received a lot of inquiries at this year's consumer expo with interest coming not just from China but from clients all over the world.
The products that got the most attention are Cambodian nuts, especially cashews, along with Cambodian pepper.
In fact, just this morning, we closed the deal for a cashew order with an annual demand of about 6 ,000 tons.
so we're feeling really confident about the opportunities the rest of the expo will bring.
Exhibitors and representatives from other countries were also looking for opportunities at the expo in the southern Chinese province.
Chief Representative Chen Yan from the Japan International Commodity Exhibition and Trading Center said they were trying to learn about high maintenance policies and connect with international trade partners at the expo.
I just visited the Cambodia booth and found their products to be really authentic.
I had a nice chat with one of their representatives and I mentioned that if they want to enter the Japanese market, they might need to adjust their packaging a little.
This kind of conversation helps our industries grow together.
With international platforms like the China Consumer Products Expo attracting global exhibitors, It is clear that China has become a key player in the global market place for healthy consumption.
For the Beijing Hour, I'm Chi Jupiter.
The 137th edition of the Canton Fair has welcomed 110 ,000 foreign buyers from various countries and regions, a 10 % increase over the lost edition.
Many buyers have expressed interest in a variety of products exhibited at the event in southern China.
We arrived like maybe one hour ago Just looking at all the products and different things that you can see.
It's crazy. You can choose between everything from I don't know skincare products Technology machines whatever you need.
We have already worked with two factories from China We're looking for them here in the fair and we hopefully find them and meet them in person Finally last year.
We have been here we We have purchased for more than 15 suppliers and this year we are going to repeat the order with these suppliers once again, even though we open with many other new manufacturing in China.
Among all exhibits, products featuring AI, digital technology and green development have garnered wide attention, marking China's power in intelligent manufacturing.
NVIDIA founder Jensen Huang has pledged to make significant efforts to serve the Chinese market where the chipmaker has maintained a presence for the past 30 years.
Huang made the commitment during a meeting with Ren Hongbin, Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade in Beijing.
His vow comes at a time when the Trump administration has tightened chip export controls to China amidst a global race for AI dominance.
Zhou Jiaxin has more.
China's trading promoter on Thursday hosts US top chipmaker Nvidia in Beijing.
The talks come at a time when the Trump administration has recently tied in cheap export rules to China in the race for AI supremacy.
Now, Elide said it will take a five and a half billion U .S. dollars hit from the new clap -down of edge -20 processors exported to China.
An extra increased restriction has impacted our companies significantly.
Growing up in China in the last 30 years.
Of course it's very much for our interactions and working and serving the Chinese companies and so it's made us both better.
And so we're going to continue to make significant effort to optimize our products that are compliant with the regulations and continue to serve the Chinese market.
And China needs NVIDIA.
Deep seek used Nvidia's Edge 20 chip in its research. Tech giants like Tencent, Alibaba and ByteDance are also in need of these chips.
The meeting is more than an interest negotiation at enterprises level.
It mirrors the dynamic balance and it's also restructuring of the two tech powers.
However, cooperation requires more than zero -sum thinking.
And innovation, risk taken together, made Dirk, now the globalisation at the crossroads.
There was Zhou Jiaxin in Beijing.
The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology says the number of 5G base stations in China had topped 4 .3 million by the end of March, with the user penetration rate reaching 75%.
The ministry also says China's cyber infrastructure has continued to improve, and its digital industry has scaled new heights.
The digital sector has achieved a revenue growth of 8 .2 % in the first two months of the year.
And finally, the European Central Bank has lowered its key interest rates by 25 basis points, its seventh cut since June 2024, as U .S. tariffs continue to weigh on the eurozone economy.
The deposit rate now stands at 2 .25%, with the main refinancing rate at 2 .4 % and the marginal lending rate at 2 .65%.
The ECB says this inflation is on track, but rising global trade tensions are clouding economic outlook.
ECB president Christian Lagarde warned that downside risk affecting growth is increasing as weaker exports, investment and consumption threaten to slow the eurozone further.
Since last June, the ECB has slashed 175 basis points from its three main rates, which peaked in September 2023.
This is the NBA playoffs are the most thrilling time of the year for basketball fans.
Can fan favorites like the Warriors and Lakers make deep postseason runs?
Will O .K .C and Cleveland turn their regular season dominance into playoff success?
Tune in to this week's Sideline Story podcast as we break down matchups, title contenders, and what it will take to raise the Larry O 'Bryan Trophy.
Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts.
46 into the hour turns into sports.
Here's Yang Guang. Thank you Hongyu, Manchester United has staged a dramatic quarter -final win of Lyon in the Europa League on Thursday.
The Premier League side hit two goals in the final minute of extra time to complete a miraculous turnaround, and advance to the semi -finals.
Lyon had seemingly looked set for the last four before Kobe Minall and Harry Maguire struck within seconds of each other to give United a staggering 5 -4 win on the night and Seven -six on aggregate against Temn Mann Leon.
United manager Ruben Amorim said victory allowed his team to forget about their disappointing season.
This kind of moments can help a lot players in this kind of season in this kind of context, these kind of months can create some connection between the fans and the players and we can forget for a few minutes what kind of season we are having." Emery's men will now face Athletic Bilbao for a place in the final.
Tottenham, Hotspur also booked a place in the semi -finals with a one -year win and 2 -1 on aggregate of Eintracht Frankfurt.
The result marked the end of Frankfurt's European campaign, with now no German team remaining in continental competitions this season.
Tottenham win next take on Boulder Glimmets, which became the first Norwegian team to reach the semi -finals of the Europa League.
Chelsea etched into the UEFA Conference League semi -finals despite a 2 -1 loss to Llegier -Walser advancing 4 -2 on aggregate.
The Blues hit back through Mark Oukurela's close -range finish after the Polish visitors had stunned Stanford Bridge with a Thomas Pechard penalty for the 10th minute opener.
But Enzo Maresca's men had no answer following Leggier's second goal from French defender Steve Capuari in the 53rd minute.
Chelsea will be against Sweden's Joerowdens to fight for place in the final of the third -tier European competition.
Two -time runner Sarpi Ferrantino also advanced to the semi -finals where they will face La Liga side Real Beddies.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has signed a new 2 -year extension to stay at the club, ending the lump -retracted saga over his future.
The Dutch defender is committed until the end of the 2027 -28 campaign.
The news will be a boost to Arn Slade who last week saw Mohamed Salah also tied down to a new two -year deal.
Two -time Asian game squash gold medalist Aung Ban Hie of Malaysia is now coaching in Beijing.
The 45 -year -old talked to Shen Xiang about guiding up -and -coming talent in China where interest in the sport is growing rapidly.
When did you come to China, and what brought you to Beijing to start a career in squash I'm the national coach of Team USA, I was a head coach for three years, I was based in Philadelphia and this opportunity came up because after three years speaking to many Asian -American families back in Philadelphia, they said, and also through all the research, We decided to pick Beijing as our company to set up a base here because of the opportunity to grow the sport.
I think in America it has been very successful.
Squash is one of the major sports in the high school, college.
But I think China has so much potential.
In your perspective, what stage is squash currently at in China in terms of development?
As you mentioned, China has huge potential in the future, why do you think like that?
With China being you know one of the biggest nation in the world for us, it's it's a no -brainer you know to start in China and one of the reasons why I I've chosen Beijing is because the China squash association is based here in Beijing we would of course we like to work with them in the future maybe not now but near future once we can get this going, our project here but for me potentially china is going to be really big you know we are so confident that this game itself will just keep building you know and i would like to be part of it basically that was asian game squash gold medalist Anh Binh
He talking about coaching in beijing and finally in tennis Carlos Alcrest has moved one step closer to capturing his third Barcelona Open title when he raced into the quarterfinals at the ATP 500 events.
The top seeded Spaniard fought off 80th ranked last -load Gerry 6 -2, 6 -4, winning four consecutive games in the second set to clinch the win, and extend his winning streak to 7 following his Monte Carlo title run last week.
12th No. 2 will next face 5th seed Alex Domino as he continues his bid for this third title of the season.
For the women's side, we head to the Stuttgart Open, Koko Galv needed just 58 minutes to beat Ela Seidl in the second round and reach the last eight.
Galv is still seeking a first WTA Tour title of the year.
She will take on fifth seed Jasmine Paolini in the Quarterfinals.
In the women's doubles, China's Zhang Shui and Russian Yekaterina Leksundrova fought back 8 -4 down in the deciding tiebreak to edge the Italian pair of Sara Irani and Jasmine Pao Lini in the quarter finals.
Next up for the emcee duo, Nicole Michal -Martinez and Lyudmila Samsnova.
Thank you. That was Yang Guang with sports.
Just ahead in culture and entertainment, the 15th Beijing International Film Festival kicks off.
From north to south, east to west, people in China are chasing their dreams and leaving their mark.
Want to know how they beat the odds and made difference, Footprints, brings you the true life stories of their journeys.
53 into the hour turning to culture and entertainment.
The 15th Beijing International Film Festival opens on Friday, inviting film industry experts and entries from around the world.
Caroline Wu has details.
This year's Film Festival holds great significance as it 20th anniversary of Chinese cinema and the 15th edition of the Beijing International Film Festival.
Over the next few days, the festival will be filled with hundreds of events.
The Qiantan Award Jewellery, led by the renowned director, Jiang Wen, will deliberate on 15 outstanding films from around the world.
Nearly 300 movies from around the globe will be screened providing a feast for film lovers.
There will also be engaging forums, master classes by legends like Jiang Wen, That was Caroline Wu reporting.
The China Academy of Cultural Heritage is one of the earliest international contributors to the preservation of the Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia.
Lai -Lin spoke to those involved in the restoration project to learn more about the preservation efforts.
Early in the morning, Yen -Lin from the China Academy of Cultural Heritage, together with other members of his team, began their restoration work at the Angkor Wat site in Cambodia.
What we can see now is that this area is partially sinking.
We need to remove it and re -force the base before restoring these structures to their original layout.
In 2018, the Cambodian government enlisted the expertise of the Chinese team to restore the ruined Royal Palace, the heart of Angkor Thom, which was the last capital of the Khmer Empire.
Built in the late 11th century, the site bore witness to the glory of the magnificent empire.
Cui Shaijie joined the Royal Palace Restoration project a year ago and is now responsible for sorting and labeling the damaged and fragmented pieces of stone discovered on site.
What we are doing in this area now is to label and number the pieces of stone found here.
We then group them together.
These numberings will enable us to piece the stone back to its original form as we complete the restoration work.
The latest technologies, including artificial intelligence, are also being deployed to locate any fallen bricks from these crumbling temples of antiquity.
The restoration of the royal palace site is expected to be completed in 2030.
That was Lai Lin reporting.
Three documentary heritage collections submitted by China have entered the UNESCO Memory of the World Register.
Among the 74 newly added entries, China contributed two solo submissions.
One of them is the Bianzhong of Marquess I of Sun. It's a set of ancient bronze bells unearthed in 1978 from the tombs of Marquess I in central China.
These bells offer insights into early Chinese musical traditions.
Another item is the Steles of Shaolin Temple, which presents a relatively complete sequence of historical documents in the form of stone inscriptions dating back to 1424.
the third entry is the trilingual inscription jointly submitted by China and Sri Lanka it's a stone tablet dated February 15th 1409 the inscription features texts in Chinese Persian and Tamil now it's 58 past the hour let's check the weather Beijing is down to 8 on Friday evening Saturday will be cloudy with a high of 21 now it shines 21 tonight tomorrow we'll see slight rain with a high of 26.
Elsewhere in Asia is Lamabad is 18 this evening.
Saturday will see slight rain with a high of 33.
the Vientiane is 24 overnight.
Tomorrow we'll see slight rain with a high of 36.
Panopnik is 25 overnight.
Tomorrow slight rain and 34.
In Africa, Nairobi will see moderate rain with a high of 27 on Saturday.
Kampala is 20 overnight.
Tomorrow slight rain with a high of 25.
And that's it for this edition of the Beijing Hour.
Making news today. The Chinese president has concluded a Southeast Asian tour and returned to Beijing The International Monetary Fund has warned of the consequences of surging US tariffs.
On behalf of the staff This is Dohan Wu in the Chinese capital Hoping you'll join us for the next edition of the Beijing Hour and open a window to the world together Find the Beijing Hour at precisely 6 p .m Beijing time.
We meet you on podcast and on air every weekday.
The Beijing Hour, your window on China and the rest of the world.
He can't live without the Yellow River in his eyes.
The Yellow River is so noble and elegant.
Both my grandpa and dad made the living from the river.
Would you like to move away from the Yellow River?
I don't think I will.
I love it so much. The Yellow River, the second longest river in China, is regarded as a shaping force in the history, economy and culture of northern China.
Today, about 100 million people live within its water basin, making up nearly nine percent of the country's population.
How is climate change felt at its headwaters?
And what are the locals doing to cope with it?
What are the descendants of the boatmen doing?
What has kept some people from leaving their home village by the river?
And what has drawn others back?
Could the fading fishing community revive in the time of digital transformation?
From 2021 to 2024 our reporters visited the upper, middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River, talked to the herders, farmers, boatmen, fishermen and eco activists who share a close bond with the river, and present their stories in pictures, podcasts and videos or in our
