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.
Shane Bigham with you on this Friday, May 1st, 2026.
You're listening to the Beijing Hour, coming to you live from the Chinese capital.
On today's program, China's received its first shipment from Africa under an expanded zero tariff arrangement.
Travel numbers across China are surging for the start of the May Day holiday period.
The U.S.
Defense Secretary said that he believes the ceasefire pauses the 60-day clock on congressional authorization for war in Iran.
In business, phase three of the Canton Fair in southern China is now open.
In sports, the Diving World Cup Super Final in Beijing.
In culture and entertainment, the May Day Holiday box office has already hit a critical milestone.
Now the day's top stories.
Apples from South Africa have become the first batch of imports under China's expanded zero-tariff policy for 53 diplomatic partners in Africa.
24 tons of the fruit swiftly cleared customs in Shenzhen after the measure took effect on Friday.
The tariff rate for the supermarket-bound apples dropped from 10% down to zero.
Importer Lua Shengsong in Shenzhen says it gives African fruit an edge in the market.
Since the policy took effect, South African apple tariffs have fallen from 10% to 0%.
Each container saves roughly 20,000 yuan, adding up to about 10 million yuan a year.
That's 1.46 million US dollars.
The South African food season is just starting and we're expecting sales to explode.
The landmark initiative makes China the first major economy to grant blanket zero-tariff access to goods from all African countries it has diplomatic ties with.
It builds on the move introduced in December of 2024 for the least developed countries on the continent.
African Union Commission Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssef, says China exempting tariffs on African goods is most welcome in a period of crises led by the US war on Iran.
The world is passing through difficult times, with numerous crises, and the most critical one is the war in Iran and the closure of the state of Hormuz.
These have disastrous effect on African economies, mainly in countries with structural vulnerability.
And we also see kind of isolationist policies across the world.
And protection is growing everywhere.
So the decision of His Excellency President Xi to allow African products to enter the Chinese market through zero tariff is very timely.
South African businesswoman Thandi Winkle has been steering Africa.
China Logistics Agency wins international shipping since 2017.
She sees a rising tide of bold exports from small African enterprises and a leap in local processing of higher valued goods across the continent, thanks to China's zero tariffs.
I think this is a big game changer for businesses, and especially for small businesses, also because it lowers the entry barrier and Think about a small coffee grower or shea butter producer will now have the opportunity to reach Chinese buyers without worrying about 10 to 25 of tariffs hitting their profit margins.
And now African products will have the opportunity to compete fairly.
And secondly, it will reward local processing.
We know that in Africa we have the problem of exporting raw materials.
So now businesses will have the opportunity to think beyond raw materials.
Think about dried mango instead of fresh ones. and also roasted coffee instead of coffee beans.
So now we're going to have high value goods and much more.
More traders from countries including Sierra Leone and Nigeria have expressed appreciation and voiced hope for more efficient trades.
The zero tariff policy will bring more African products to China.
It spurred consumer interest in more high quality, lower priced African goods.
If fresh African fruits and foods are price competitive and offer us alternatives to local products, I'd be happy to try them.
I think this policy is beneficial for both sides.
Chinese consumers will have more choices.
After African products enter the Chinese market, I will be buying coffee beans.
I drink two or three cups of coffee every day and African coffee beans will be very popular.
This policy will help further exchanges and cooperation between China and African countries.
I have high hopes for agricultural products such as coffee, cocoa and fruit.
Any policy that benefits our daily lives is good, making our lives more convenient and affordable.
We can try African decorative items, such as handicrafts.
This policy is especially timely for consumers like us.
For someone like me who enjoys shopping, being able to buy better products at lower prices is ideal.
Other popular African products in China include wine, tea, fresh flowers and spices.
The favorable tariff measures unlock benefits for bilateral trade, resource collaboration and cross-border industrial integration.
Guanyang reports on how the elimination of tariffs has reaped dividends for iron ore from Guinea arriving at a northeastern Chinese port.
For years, the port of Dalian has been a key gateway for African bulk cargoes in northeast China.
Now a brand new business segment is taking shape, with high-grade cement iron ore from Gini being unloaded, crushed and processed directly on site in bounded zones.
As the new zero tariff policy takes effect, the port is bringing stronger trade and industrial benefits to both China and Africa.
The new zero-tariff policy will greatly boost the global competitiveness of high-grade Samandu iron ore.
It will drive mining, port and logistics development in Guinea and other African nations, helping them turn resource strengths into sustainable economic growth.
Plans are underway to bring in other African minerals through the Dalian port under the new policy, making the whole import chain far more efficient and cost-effective for both sides.
This zero tariff policy elevates China-Africa cooperation from resource trade to full industrial chain collaboration.
We're also expanding stable import routes for Guinea bauxite and optimizes bulk mineral logistics in northern China.
The benefits are reaching downstream manufacturers directly.
Crushed iron ore is ready at Dalian port, feeding local steel mills in real time.
Factories get instant supplies, shortening lead times and slashing costs, boosting solid and efficient production.
Previously, the entire process from ordering, offshore loading and shipping to port arrival took 45 to 60 days.
Now, high-grade iron ore is readily available at Dalian Port, enabling on-demand procurement aligned with real-time production and boosting operational efficiency via reliable spot supply.
I think the point here is it really is now in the hands of Africans to really try our best to export more to China.
Utilize this opportunity.
We need to remember that previously, China had been complying with WTO proposals and doing this on a voluntary basis to have duty-free access for low-income countries.
But of course the countries with the biggest manufacturing potential are the middle-income countries.
So, South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, we really have the biggest opportunity.
With zero tariffs on African goods, this is win-win cooperation in action.
The new logistic rules is locking in stable supply for China's steel industry.
More importantly, it brings steady trade and development opportunities for African countries.
That was Gwen Young reporting from Dalian.
Senior research fellow Zhou Mi at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation says, apart from reshaping China's economic ties with Africa, the new measures will also enhance unity among global south countries.
I would say that zero tariff would be a very good beginning for the world to discuss about the possible cooperation among the different countries.
And based on that kind of practices, many companies can have better abilities to deal with the different resources and allocate the resources in a better way.
So I hope that the South-South cooperation can improve the mutual trust to each other.
Like, you know, South Africa is also a member of the BRICS and also the Tunis and also Morocco.
So those countries are much more developed compared with other African countries, but they can also enjoy this treatment.
So I hope that we can do more to improve a better understanding and also the capacity buildings for those African countries.
The researcher said the policy is a start in supporting Africa to improve its position in the global supply chain, which is helpful in a world full of uncertainties.
Coming up, travel numbers across China are surging for the May Day holiday.
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It's 11 minutes past the hour.
China's transport authorities are expecting more than 340 million passenger trips on the first day of the May Day holiday.
That's up 3.4%.
Friday is the peak of the five-day break, with highways making up over 90% of the total volume.
The railway network is anticipating nearly 25 million trips, a 7.3% rise.
Land ports connecting the Chinese mainland with Hong Kong and Macau expect to see daily passenger volumes of up to 400000 during the holiday period.
More travelers are driving into the mainland from the Special Administrative Region, spurred by policies making cross-border road trips easier.
Huangfei spoke with some of those who made that trip to find out how the measures have fueled tourism and even football fever in Guangdong province.
Brunch, sea views, a garden escape to unwind, football weekend to cheer on.
Under the Northbound Travel Scheme, private cars from Hong Kong and Macau can enter Guangdong Province via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge without applying for a mainland license plate.
Macau cars can enter through the Hengxin border with more streamlined crossing procedures.
I'm a Macau-born entrepreneur now, based in Heng Chin, working in supply chains and consultation.
Today, moving across the Greater Bay Area is incredibly convenient.
I often go from Zhuhai to Hong Kong for client meetings, then on to Shenzhen and back to Zhuhai in about an hour.
As more lesser-known cities are being discovered, my friends and I are increasingly keen to explore beyond the usual hot spots.
We just drove in from the Heng Chin border, where the joint clearance policy has made crossings much easier, especially when traveling with children.
We also often use the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao bridge as well, but traffic can get really busy on weekends.
And increasingly, sport is becoming part of the draw.
Zhuhai recently hosted Yangjiang in its first home match of the Guangdong Super League, drawing fans from across the border.
Outside the stadium, the street fair showcased local food, drinks and cultural products, where fans could eat, shop and pick up vouchers before kickoff.
I watched football around the world, in Europe and the US and the growth around Zhuhai has been striking.
There used to be far fewer places for sports or for kids to play.
Now the atmosphere is better, and there are many more facilities and choices.
There are hundreds of teams and a large amateur base in Macau, but not enough space.
That's why the northbound travel scheme is opening new possibilities.
In about an hour, players from Macau can reach these facilities.
It's convenient and it opens a door to training camps exchanges, even youth programs in the future.
What an energetic way to spend the holiday, surrounded by fans, united by the game.
But it's about more than sports.
It's a glimpse of a more connected Greater Bay Area, where people come together through competition, friendship and shared culture.
Nearly 30,000 vehicles crossed the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-McHale Bridge on a peak day.
And with northbound travel rising, cross-border drives are fueling more than tourism.
They're boosting consumption, education and cultural exchange.
That was Huang Fei on Hong Kong and Macau residents spending the holiday on the Chinese mainland.
Shanghai has kicked off a shopping festival.
China has made expanding domestic demand a top priority for economic work this year.
And Shanghai will release around 200 million yuan, or 292 million US dollars, in coupons during the shopping festival.
As more international travelers come to the city under visa exemptions, it's also introducing new measures to encourage them to shop.
Local officials have plans to expand tax-free shopping to 1000 stores within the year and are making refunds easier with self-service machines.
In addition, travelers at Pudong International Airport, regardless of their time of arrival, have the chance to get duty-free shopping coupons.
Many cities and regions across China have launched promotion campaigns for the Consumer Goods Trading Program during the May Day holiday.
They cover smartphones, home appliances, cars and daily consumer goods.
Wang Mengjie has more.
Replacements of old cars, appliances and digital devices.
By providing subsidies for consumers who trade in outdated items for new ones, China's government-backed trade-in program continues to boost domestic consumption nationwide.
Guo Di is one of those who benefited from the program in Beijing.
Guo said the trade-in process convenient.
It took him two to three months to get the subsidy after submitting all the needed materials of his old car.
China's government was offering the auto trade-ins.
When i purchased the car and i brought this one, i got 15 000 yuan about 2 100 us dollars, subsidy in total.
With a new car, Guo enjoys more happy time with family members.
According to the Ministry of Commerce, China's trading program had resulted in sales of 502 billion yuan, about 73 billion US dollars, as of mid-April, benefiting nearly 69 million purchases.
This is all believed to get the 15th five-year plan period. off to a good start.
With the renewal of subsidies announced, experts are confident about this year's May Day holiday purchasing.
Not only because of more trade-in programs organized by the central government.
Equally important are the exclusive discounts local stores offered, which combined with national subsidies to continue spurring consumption.
With its original intention of protecting workers' rights.
Experts say today's May Day holiday in China has become a golden opportunity to promote consumption and improve people's livelihoods.
That was Wang Mengjie reporting.
China's first brain-computer interface clinic is marking its first anniversary.
Since opening, the clinic at Beijing Tiantian Hospital has treated nearly 2000 patients using implanted chips to help restore lost functions and improve quality of life.
Qi Jirt reports.
The dedicated Brain Computer Interface Award is designed to move cutting-edge technology out of the lab and into real-world treatment, aiming to help patients regain movement and communication.
With 24 beds and a specialized medical team, the BCI Award offers full-cycle care, from initial testing to post-surgery rehabilitation.
Dr. Yang Yi says demand has far exceeded expectations.
After we opened, patients came from all over the country.
The demand exceeded our expectations.
For many, brain computer interface technology feels like a lifeline, a new source of hope.
BCI works by collecting neural signals and connecting the brain to external devices.
It is being used to assist patients with conditions such as ALS and spinal cord injuries, helping restore movement and, in some cases, speech.
Hanfeng Guo is among the first patients to receive an implant aimed at restoring hand function.
I suffered a brain hemorrhage in 2024, which caused a paralysis on the right side of my body.
Rehabilitation wasn't very effective.
When I learned about the clinical trial at Beijing Tiantang Hospital, I didn't hesitate.
This was a chance to return to my old self.
I didn't want to miss it.
One year on, during a follow-up visit, he's now able to perform simple grasping movements.
Dr. Yang says even modest progress can be life-changing.
The technology can restore everything overnight, but even small improvements bring profound change.
It's like the patient has come back to life.
For many living with severe disabilities caused by stroke or spinal cord injuries, the technology offers renewed hope.
It's been four years.
I can walk now and do simple tasks, but my right arm and hand are still the most difficult.
Fine motor skills are not there yet.
Now patients like her are looking to BCI for further recovery.
Earlier this year, China approved the world's first invasive brain-computer interface medical device for market use.
Another device, Beinau No.
1, is advancing toward broader application with large-scale clinical trials underway.
More than 20 hospitals across the country have now opened BCI clinics, many with waitlists already full.
Fujian has roughly 4 million people living with spinal cord injuries.
This technology represents a step closer to greater independence and a new life.
For the Beijing Hour, this is Qi Zhi.
Coming up, the U.S.
Defense Secretary says he believes the ceasefire pauses the 60-day clock on congressional authorization for the Iran war.
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At 21 past the hour, a senior official from U.S.
President, Donald Trump's administration says the war with Iran has ended in terms of war powers, resolution purposes.
War Powers Act requires the president to start winding down a war at the 60-day mark, unless he receives congressional authorization.
May 1st marks that milestone.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said he believes the ceasefire pauses the 60-day clock on congressional authorization for war.
He was grilled for a second day at a congressional hearing.
Tony Waterman has more from Washington, D.C.
The defense secretary very defiant, really touting the military successes and blaming Democrats for America's lack of support for this war.
It's been a very unpopular war from day one.
And it is now reaching a very critical threshold of 60 days.
After 60 days, the president is required to seek and receive congressional approval for further military action.
And without it, they are required to start withdrawing troops.
But Hegseth trying to argue that the clock has been put on pause because of the ceasefire Democrats not buying that one bit.
Iran already saying that it will retaliate, which is only going to add to the price tag of this war.
The Pentagon saying So far it has cost the American taxpayer 25 billion, but CNN is reporting that is likely much higher than that, because it doesn't take into account repairs that are needed to damage military bases.
They're saying it could actually be closer to $50 billion.
And of course, that doesn't include the price that Americans are now paying at the pump.
Gas prices hitting their highest level in four years.
And Gas Buddy, which tracks this kind of stuff, saying that Americans have spent nearly 22 billion more to fill up their tanks since this war began.
The main sticking point is still over Iran's nuclear program.
President Trump, saying that he had a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday.
The Kremlin had offered to help take the enriched uranium out of Iran, but the president and the White House saying no, thank you.
That was Tony Waterman reporting.
Iran says it'll respond with long and painful strikes if Washington renews attacks.
On Persian Gulf Day, Supreme Leader Majdaba Khamenei issued a statement declaring Americans do not belong in the Persian Gulf.
Aysan Kevani reports.
The Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mustafa Khamenei, issued a written statement saying that repeated interventions by outside powers, including European and American actors, are just part of a broader pattern of external interference in the Persian Gulf.
He added that the most recent example of this is the latest act of aggression by a major adversarial power.
The leader's message also said that Iran will ensure the security of the Persian Gulf and put an Ends to any hostile misuse of this waterway.
According to the Supreme Leader of Iran, new legal frameworks and management of the Strait of Hormuz will bring comfort and progress to all nations in the region.
At the same time, there are strong warnings from the Islamic Revolution guards for the IRGC.
They insist Iran will never give up the Strait of Hormuz, no matter what.
And if the enemy makes a wrong move, they say, Iran will sink their warships in the Gulf of Oman and capture their soldiers.
The irgc adds that it will respond to enemy operations, even brief and sporadic ones, with long, painful and extensive strikes.
Iran says outsiders who come from thousands of kilometers away with greedy intentions have no place here, except in the depths of.
That was Ehsan Kehvani on Iran's standing firm on its key positions.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Navigational rights and freedoms must be restored immediately, in line with the Security Council Resolution 2817.
Open the strait, let all ships pass, let the global economy breathe again.
And that requires more than physical reopening.
It requires shipping to be safe, predictable and insurable.
The UN chief warned of devastating consequences of the prolonged disruptions in the Strait.
The longer this vital artery is choked, the harder it will be to reverse the damage and the higher the cost to humanity.
Developing countries will be hit the hardest, as crushing debt impedes their ability to cope with lost jobs, deeper poverty and more hunger.
He said, if the Strait remains closed until the end of the year, the world will see a global recession with dramatic impacts on the people, the economy and social stability.
He added that even if the restrictions are lifted immediately, it'll still take months to recover.
Guterres urged all parties to refrain from actions that could undermine the ceasefire.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's Heat Advisory says the heat index in the Thai capital will be extremely dangerous for the first time this summer.
The administration says the index is set to reach or exceed 52 degrees Celsius on Friday.
It's warned all residents to refrain from any outdoor activities.
Health officials have urged residents to seek immediate medical attention once abnormal symptoms occur.
The heat index calculates what the temperature feels like to the human body by combining air temperature and humidity.
It's considered a critical indicator of risk, ranging from exhaustion and dizziness to life-threatening heat stroke.
The World Meteorological Organization reports that Europa's warmed twice as fast as the global average since 1980, making it the fastest warming region on Earth.
The findings highlight record heat waves, wildfires, and marine heat affecting 95% of the continent.
Europe faced its worst wildfire season last year, with over a million hectares burned and Spain contributing half of the fire emissions.
These extreme events have put immense pressure on biodiversity, disrupting ecosystems and habitats.
The report emphasizes the urgent need for accelerated adaptation and mitigation efforts, along with stronger climate policies and technologies to protect ecosystems and human health.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman has hailed the Artemis II mission, which marked the first crewed flight of the agency's Return to the Moon program.
He made the remarks at a UN panel on Thursday.
NASA designed the mission as a dress rehearsal for later flights, validating the systems needed to carry crews into deep space.
The mission sent astronauts farther from Earth than ever before, and NASA aims to put astronauts back on the moon by next year.
We're at 29 past the hour.
Beijing's down to 14 on Friday evening.
Saturday has a light rainfall in the forecast and a high of 20.
Shanghai will be cloudy and down to 14, then a light rain in 25.
Chongqing's getting light rainfall overnight.
It's down to 19, then cloudy skies in 23.
Nanchang is down to 16.
Thunder showers developing through tomorrow with a high of 29 degrees.
Lhasa will get a light rainfall in 5 degrees for a low.
Cloudy in 14 tomorrow.
Also in Asia, Islamabad will be clear and down to 20 this evening.
It's cloudy in 34 on Saturday.
Vientiane will see a light rainfall easing to moderate with a low of 25 and a high of 35.
It's time for a short break.
So far this hour, China's received its first shipment from Africa under an expanded zero tariff arrangement.
Travel numbers across China are surging for the start of the May Day holiday period.
The U.S.
Defense Secretary says he believes the ceasefire pauses the 60-day clock on congressional authorization for war.
Shane Bigham with you.
Stay with us here on The Beijing Hour.
You're listening to The Beijing Hour 60 minutes of comprehensive news, your window on China and the world.
Listen up.
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 river.
From the silent strength of mountains to the icy whispers of glaciers.
Even the solid ground beneath our feet.
And 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?
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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.
Now here's your host, shane begum, with you on this friday, still still to come in business.
Phase three of the canton fair in southern china is now open.
In sports of the Diving World Cup Super Final in Beijing.
In culture and entertainment, the May Day Holiday box offices already hit a critical milestone.
To contact us, you can email radio at cgtn.com or follow our ex-account at CGTN Radio.
Now a check of the day's headlines.
China says it opposes restrictive measures by the U.S.
Federal Communications Commission, which undermine the hard-won stability in China-US economic and trade relations.
The commission plans to ban entities on a so-called covered list from providing telecommunications services in the United States.
China's Commerce Ministry said if it's implemented, it'll disrupt the stability of industrial and supply chains in the telecommunications sector, hindering global industrial cooperation and technological innovation.
A Chinese spokesperson urged the U.S. to respect market laws and revoke the measures.
Eleven countries have condemned what they described as an Israeli assault on the global Samud flotilla, a pro-Palestinian humanitarian convoy.
The foreign ministers of countries including Pakistan, Turkey and Brazil denounced the reported attack on civilian vessels and the detention of activists in international waters.
The minister said the flotilla was a peaceful humanitarian initiative aimed at drawing attention to the worsening situation in Gaza.
Israel said its navy detained 175 Gaza flotilla activists on more than 20 boats overnight near the Greek island of Crete.
The U.S.
House of Representatives has approved a Senate funding bill that will fund much of the Homeland Security Department to end the agency's record 75-day shutdown.
The bill will reopen DHS without allocating new funds for Immigration and Customs Enforcement or the US.
Border Patrol.
The bill's passage came as the DHS secretary warned that His department will run out of money to pay employee salaries within a week.
The bill funds DHS agencies through the fiscal year ending September 30th, once President Donald Trump signs the bill.
Republicans' next attempt to fund ICE or the Border Patrol without Democrat support.
Democrats have demanded major reforms to immigration enforcement amid two fatal shootings of citizens by federal immigration agents in January.
Republicans have rejected the demands, leading to a deadlock in negotiations.
The suspect accused of attempting to assassinate US President Donald Trump at a press gala has agreed to remain in custody while this case moves forward.
The attorney for 31-year-old Cole Allen says the suspect will not immediately contest arguments that he's a danger to the community and should remain in jail.
Allen allegedly stormed a security checkpoint and fired a shotgun outside the White House.
Correspondents Association dinner on Saturday.
Prosecutors say he planned to attack Trump and other officials in his administration as they dined with thousands of journalists, politicians and other guests in a ballroom at the Washington Hilton Hotel.
They've alleged in a legal filing that Allen traveled by train from California to Washington armed with various weapons and was willing to commit a mass shooting inside a room full of the highest ranking US government officials.
Allen's facing charges of attempted assassination, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence and illegally transporting guns and ammunition across state lines.
He's not yet entered a plea.
FIFA President, Johnny Infantinos, reaffirmed that Iran will participate in this year's World Cup and play its matches in the US as originally scheduled.
He made the remarks during the 76th FIFA Congress at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
The confirmation came after Iranian officials previously suggested moving their group stage matches from the US to Mexico, a proposal rejected by FIFA.
US government officials have expressed a welcoming stance toward the Iranian team.
The Congress saw football officials around the world gathering to discuss tournament arrangements, rule changes and preparations for the World Cup.
A prohibition on the possession of specified alternative smoking products in public places has taken effect in Hong Kong.
The prohibited products include e-cigarette capsules, liquids, heat sticks and herbal cigarettes.
Those possessing such products in public places are liable for a fixed penalty of HK$3,000.
That's over US$380.
If the quantity possessed exceeds the limit or involves commercial purposes, the maximum penalty is a fine of HK50000 and imprisonment for six months.
Officials say authorities will step up patrols and law enforcement at crowded venues in the initial phase of the new rules.
They'll also roll out publicity campaigns across communities to deepen understanding of the regulations.
You're listening to the Beijing Hour.
Coming up in business, phase three of the Canton Fair in southern China is now open.
From east to west, people in China are chasing their dreams and leaving their mark.
Want to know how they beat the odds and made a difference?
Footprints brings you the true life stories of their journeys.
37 past the hour.
Stock markets on the Chinese mainland and in Hong Kong are closed on Friday due to the Labor Day holiday.
In Japan, the Nikkei gained nearly four-tenths of a percent.
The third phase of the China Import and Export Fair is underway in Guangzhou, featuring an array of lifestyle products.
The event, also known as the Canton Fair, focuses on maternity and childcare products, home textiles and stationery, and health and leisure goods.
The third phase also displays smart healthcare products, fashion trends and silver economy applications, addressing the diverse needs of global consumers for health, quality and emotional companionship.
Covering over 15 million square meters.
The fair features nearly 76000 booths and more than 32000 enterprises, including around 3900 first-time exhibitors.
The five-day event will wrap up on May 5th.
Listed companies in China's domestic market achieved total operating revenue of over 73 trillion yuan in 2025, or around 107 trillion US dollars, an increase of 12.
The listed companies recorded a net profit of 5.4 trillion yuan, up 2.6%.
More than 70 of listed companies across the market turned a profit, with over 3200 companies achieving positive revenue growth and more than 2400 reporting profit growth.
According to the China Association for Public Companies, emerging industries made significant contributions to the growth last year.
These industries include smart grid construction, the semiconductor industry and domestically developed innovative drugs.
From farm fields to dining tables, a new kind of consumption is taking root in China.
More people are seeking hands-on experiences, from digging traditional Chinese medicinal herbs to turning them into food.
Yu Buokun has more.
Becoming Chinese has been going viral lately.
Digging into traditional Chinese medicine yourself.
I visited a farm on the outskirt of Beijing to explore TCM firsthand.
Well, the herbs that you see in the books, in the pharmacies or even take when you've got a cold, are literally right here in the soil.
It's not peak season, so only a few herbs are visible in the field with more in the greenhouse.
Take wolfberry leaves, commonly used in the Chinese cooking.
They're believed to help cool the body and support eye health, or mint, often used in traditional remedies for its cooling effect and refreshing scent.
Many visitors are stepping away from city life and getting their hands-on experiences like this.
You think picking herb is the whole thing?
No, no.
So yes, we don't just pick those herbs.
We turn them into dumplings and buns.
The idea is simple.
Chinese medical herbs are not only for treatment.
They're part of everyday life from what you eat to what you create.
One minute ago, there were herbs in the soil, and now there are fillings in the bun.
China is encouraging new consumption scenarios and cultivating fresh growth drivers.
And as new consumption grows, becoming Chinese is no longer just a trend online.
It's something people are stepping out to experience in real life.
That was Iupua Kun reporting.
The first phase of the longest metro ring line in Asia, Wuhan Rail Transit Line 12 has started operation.
The line crosses the Yangtze River, the longest river in China, passing through four administrative districts of Wuhan in central China, as Wuhan's second fully automated, driverless metro line.
The line spans approximately 353 kilometres, including 23 stations, and takes about 58 minutes for a one-way trip.
The full Line 12 extends nearly 60 kilometers, making it the longest metro ring line in Asia, as well as a golden link connecting the three towns of Wuhan and covering seven central urban districts.
The opening of the ring line is expected to increase the total interchange volume of the Wuhan metro network by approximately 25 and reduce some cross-river commuting times by more than 30 minutes.
US economy grew at an annualized rate of 2% in the first quarter after missing forecasts of 2.3%.
According to the Commerce Department, the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge rose at an annualized rate of 43.
That's above the 4.1% estimate and accelerated sharply from 2.7% in the previous quarter.
The broader personal consumption expenditure index rose 35 on a yearly basis in March, marking the highest level since June of 2023.
Karina Mitchell has more from New York.
The advance estimate for first quarter gdp did see a rise, but it was by a smaller margin than economists had anticipated.
So the commerce department reported that first quarter gdp from the period january through march saw a rise of two percent.
Now that's significantly up from the half a percent rise we saw in the fourth quarter, but below the estimate of 22.
So what helped fuel that metric?
There was a rebound in government spending after the longest shutdown in US history in the final months of 2025.
Businesses also accelerated spending, particularly on AI technologies and infrastructure.
Exports also helped, as did consumer spending, though there was some deceleration, as consumers started to show some signs of holding back amid dealing with higher prices, in part because of higher gas prices and the residual effects of Trump tariffs on things like apparel, clothes and electronics.
Remarkably, in other data released Thursday, The US national debt now exceeds 100 of GDP, breaking a record set as a result of World War II.
As of the end of March, that debt stood at $31.265 trillion.
That's 100.2% of GDP for the preceding year.
The latest GDP read comes as inflation edged higher in March, with CPI rising 33 year over year, and as the job market has swung between wide losses and gains at the start of the year, and as the Federal Reserve just voted to hold its key benchmark interest rates steady as hostilities between the US and Iran continue.
Now, the next piece of data that economists will have the opportunity to parse through is the nonfarm payrolls report, the government jobs report for April, which comes out next week to give analysts a better idea of how the labor market stands and the overall economy.
That was Karina Mitchell reporting.
The American Automobile Association says the national average price of regular gasoline in the country is now over a dollar higher than last year, hitting a new four-year high.
This comes as international oil prices have surged over 100 per barrel and there's no sign of when the Strait of Hormuz will reopen.
After edging down for nearly two weeks, US fuel prices have risen once again.
The national average has jumped 27 cents over the past week and currently the average price of regular gasoline in California has broken through the six US dollar per gallon mark, continuing to rank the highest in the country.
Analysts say rising gasoline prices are a key driver pushing up US inflation.
A major new hub for space education has opened its doors in Beijing to offer young people a hands-on journey through China's space achievements and beyond.
The China Aerospace Science Center in Changping District is designed to fill a gap in high-quality aerospace education in the country.
With an area of 3,700 square meters, the center targets visitors aged 6 to 16.
Combining authentic space technology resources with interactive entertainment.
The venue is structured around six themed zones that follow the logical timeline of human space exploration.
A time tunnel section presents 100 major space milestones, with a strong focus on China's full-cycle space journey.
Visitors can experience a realistic countdown simulation of a rocket launch, watch a step-by-step breakdown of satellite interiors and learn about the engineering logic behind every link of a space mission.
One of the most popular attractions is a life-size replica of the Tiangong Space Station core module.
The center boasts a role-play system where children can act as aerospace engineers.
Visitors at the 9th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou have explored Beijing's Forbidden City through VR or tried AI health consultations, while nearby tech experts are debating token pricing and data sandbox security.
This year's event features a theme, digital infrastructure meets everyday applications.
At an AI infrastructure firm.
A server unit consisting of two computing cabinets, each with 640 AI accelerator cards in a world-first design, attracted large crowds.
This cabinet improves AI model training and inference performance by 30-40, with over 96 of electricity used for computation and less than 4 loss to heat.
The event features over 50 sub-forums and dialogues.
There are more than 6000 technologies, products and projects from over 400 exhibitors, including Tencent's Hi3 preview model and iFlyTech's AI glasses.
Host city fujo has launched a data switching service network.
As of april this year, the platform linked more than 900 data entities across 17 application scenarios, spanning textile supply chains, deep sea ai, aquaculture and pharmaceutical rd.
You're listening to The Beijing Hour.
Coming up in sports, the Diving World Cup Super Final in Beijing.
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Chinese divers Chen Yuxi and Liu Wei have won the gold medal in women's 10-meter platform at the Diving World Cup Super Final in Beijing.
China has also taken the two titles in men's and women's 3-meter springboard categories.
The diving competitions will run through Sunday.
In December, World Aquatics named Olympic champion Chen Yuxi as the 2025 Female Diving Athlete of the Year.
China's Wu Yize is making a stunning, Crucible debut, jumping out to a substantial 6-2 lead against Northern Ireland's Mark Allen after the first session of the semi-final match at the World Snooker Championship.
He set the tone early, clinching frame one with a solid 77 break.
When Allen built a 59-point lead in frame two, a costly miss on the black.
Let Wu steal it with a 55.
The world number 10 is now just one session from a place in the final.
Meanwhile, in other semifinal action, England's Sean Murphy and Scotland's John Higgins finished their opening session deadlocked at 4-4, setting up a thrilling Friday showdown.
China's advanced to the semifinals of the Uber Cup Badminton Women's Team Championship after a commanding 3-0 victory over Malaysia.
The defending champions took early control in the tie through Wang Jueyi, who secured a straight games win over a Malaysian player 21-17 21-18.
The world number two says the matches provided valuable lessons as the tournament moves into the knockout stage.
I think we faced a lot of challenges in this contest.
It was also a new test for me personally.
As the knockout phase begins.
I hope to take lessons from this match, keep improving as the tournament goes on and getting better with every competition.
China doubled the lead in the doubles as world number one pair.
Liu Chengxu and Tan Ning battled past Ong Xinyi and Carmen Ting in three games.
Olympic champion Chen Yufei then sealed the victory, defeating Wang Lingqing 21-10, 21-10.
The Asian Beach Games is closed in Sanya.
Held from April 22nd to the 30th.
The Games brought together more than 1600 athletes from all 45 members of the Olympic Council of Asia, competing across 14 sports, 15 disciplines and 62 events in southern China.
The host nation topped the medal table with 24 golds, 18 silvers and 13 bronzes, leading the gold in overall counts.
At the closing ceremony at Yasha Park, athletes and guests enjoyed a festive beach concert.
I feel truly honoured to take part in this year's Asian Beach Games.
I've been deeply moved by the passion, free spirit and exuberance of the local residents, which capture the spirit of this event.
It also reflects the warmth and enthusiasm of the people here in Hainan.
I feel so awesome and happy that I forgot about the pressure of competition.
I just want to enjoy this moment.
The Games marked the first time Hainan Province has hosted a continental-level beach sports event.
It's the second time China's hosted the Games after the 2012 edition in Shandong Province.
Cebu and the Philippines will host the next edition coming up in 2028.
In tennis, Belgium's Alexander Blocks is continuing his impressive run at the Madrid Open.
Stunning defending champion Kasper Ruud in straight sets to reach the semifinals.
The unseeded 21-year-old now has defeated several seeded players and will face second seed Alexander Zivarev, who's only the fourth man to reach the semifinals at each of the first four Masters events this season.
On the women's side, Russia's Mira Andreeva continues to make history.
The 19-year-old defeated American Hailey Baptiste to reach the final, becoming the first teenager to reach three WTA 1000 finals since the format was introduced in 2009.
Andreeva will face Marta Kostiak in Saturday's finals.
At the Men's Ice Hockey World Championships, China claimed its first win of the Division 1 Group B tournament, edging out Romania 4-3 in overtime.
Romania opened the scoring eight minutes into the first period, before Ho assisted Wang Jing, who leveled the score with a deft finish.
China's Zhang Jiaqi fired a long-range shot from the blue line, putting the hosts ahead 2-1.
The final frame was a seesaw battle.
Romania equalized before Chen Ziming restored China's lead.
However, Romania struck again with three minutes left on the clock to tie the game and force overtime.
Hou was awarded a penalty shot in extra time after being struck from behind.
He converted the shot, sealing the win for China.
A 17-year-old goalkeeper to Yue Ran also made several crucial saves.
Our team is like a big family.
We're happy and honored to win this game.
I hope we can keep our momentum going.
China next takes on the Netherlands.
That game is on Friday.
You're listening to the Beijing Hour coming up in Culture and Entertainment.
The May Day holiday box office has already hit a critical milestone.
You're listening to the Beijing Hour 60 minutes of comprehensive news, your window on China and the world.
52 past the hour.
In culture and entertainment.
China's movie box office is heating up, as the May Day holiday sales have already crossed a major milestone.
Network data shows ticket sales for the five-day holiday have surpassed 100 million yuan already.
It's more than 14 million U.S. dollars.
The action film Cold War 1994 leads the pack, followed by Vanishing Point, and No One Is Closer Than We.
The surges helped push the year's total box office past 13 billion yuan.
To keep the momentum going, China Media Group is launching a new campaign through partnerships with airlines and rail operators and creating themed flights and trains.
On a Xiamen Airlines flight.
The crew shared film facts and travel tips about the movie's filming locations.
Today, we are more than flight attendants.
We are guides at 10000 meters for this movie-themed journey, planting the seed for passengers' next trip or movie and the start of a beautiful memory.
The campaign's goal is to turn commutes into cinematic experiences by blending movie magic with tourism, giving audiences a new way to experience the big screen and the journey at the same time.
A major exhibition on ancient civilizations of the Americas is coming to Shanghai in early July.
It'll run for 16 months at the Shanghai Museum on People's Square.
For the first time, the museum will dedicate its entire People's Square venue to a single exhibition.
After two years of preparations, more than a thousand cultural relics from the Americas will be on display.
Many are making their debut in China.
The show covers the Olmec, Maya, Aztec, and Inca civilizations.
Public interest in museums continues to grow in Shanghai.
In 2025, the city hosted nearly 1600 exhibitions and museums and art galleries, drawing close to 50 million visits.
Plans to export a landmark private art collection to Europe featuring Frida Kahlo's works has sparked fierce debate in Mexico over cultural heritage and ownership.
Alistair Baverstock has more from Mexico City.
Mexico's Museum of Modern Art, where the Hellman Collection is on display to the public, featuring masterpieces by José Clemente Orozco, Diego Rivera and, most notably, Frida Kahlo.
This private collection, compiled during Mexico's golden age of mid-20th century modernism, will soon leave the country indefinitely, causing uproar in Mexico's art world.
Here in Mexico City, some of the works at the center of the controversy are still on display.
But critics say sending them abroad risks indefinitely removing them, not just physically but culturally, from the public to whom they belong.
In late July, the Spanish banking institution Santander will take the collection to Europe for a gallery tour.
The Zambrano family, which owns the collection, owes a large debt to the Spanish bank, which takes control of the collection in the case of default.
I fear these artworks will not return to Mexico, and I wouldn't be surprised to see them up for sale soon in European auction houses.
It pains me personally because it's part of our culture that should remain here.
However, Mexico's president insists the country's laws will ensure the collection returns.
The private collections in Mexico may also be registered as public heritage, and they may not be sold abroad without the state's permission.
So the artworks will return to Mexico as they are categorized as such.
Frida Kahlo's art in particular is highly valued.
One of her canvases, a self-portrait, recently sold for 55 million dollars, the highest price ever paid for a female artist.
The Hellman collection contains a number of her most famous pieces, and while Mexico's government may hold sway here, the private collection's fate may be a different story once on the other side of the Atlantic.
As Mexicans, we fear that once the collection leaves Mexico, that the country will lose control over it.
It's an issue between its private owners, the public heritage and the government's power beyond its borders, and it makes a lot of us very nervous.
As thousands of Mexicans flock to see their country's most famous artworks, they do so not knowing if it will be the last time ever in the country that produced them.
That was Alistair Baverstock reporting.
We're at 57 past the hour.
Beijing down to 14 on Friday evening.
A light rainfall expected and a high of 20 on Saturday.
Shanghai will be cloudy and down to 14, then a light rain and 25.
Chongqing is getting a light rain overnight.
It's down to 19, then cloudy skies and 23.
Nanchang's down to 16.
Thundershowers developing for tomorrow.
The high is 29.
Lassen will get a light rainfall with a low of 5, cloudy and 14 on Saturday.
That's all the time we have for this edition of the Beijing Hour.
Making news today, China's received its first shipment from Africa under an expanded zero tariff arrangement.
Travel numbers across China are surging for the start of the May Day holiday period.
On behalf of the staff.
This is Shane Biggum 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 6pm Beijing time.
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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 a 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 9 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 a 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, all in our 12-part series, The Yellow River Mosaic, available only on CGTN Radio.
