Business
Beijing Celebrates Obedient Macau as Hong Kong Racked by Protests
While Hong Kong has been roiled by more than half a year of protests against perceived communist influence from the mainland, its neighboring city of Macau has progressed in the opposite direction—serving as a model of obedience to the regime.
The former Portuguese colony, now the world’s largest gambling market, is currently hosting Chinese leader Xi Jinping for his three-day visit to mark the 20th anniversary of Chinese regime rule.
Under the “one country, two systems” formula, which also governs Hong Kong, the territory was to be guaranteed a high level of political autonomy not enjoyed in the mainland.
Some 40 miles away, Hong Kong, which the regime similarly reclaimed in the late 1990s, saw another round of protests on Dec. 19 when hundreds marched through downtown to the consulates of eight countries. The pro-democracy movement, initially ignited over the now-withdrawn extradition bill, has broadened into public defiance against the Chinese communist regime—which protesters say has not kept its word to stay out of the city’s affairs.
Beijing’s Praise
Xi, who arrived in the city for a three-day visit on Dec. 18, has lavished Macau with praise, calling the city a “source of pride.”
During a welcome banquet on Dec. 19, Xi praised Macau’s government for “prioritizing the interest of the country and Macau” and for its “patriotic education,” including mandating all schools to raise Chinese flags and sing the Chinese anthem.
“The [Macau government] and people from all walks of society is well aware that ‘harmony makes a family prosper,’” Xi said in the same speech. “They consciously resist various foreign interferences.”
Chinese state-run news outlet Xinhua also quoted Xi telling Macau security forces to “resolutely prevent and crackdown on any activities that harm national sovereignty, challenge the central government’s power or the authority of the Basic Law.”
Show of Loyalty
Unlike its restive neighbor, Macau, where half of its 620,000 population emigrated from China in recent decades, has been closely following…
Business
China Limits Apple Operations as BYD Manufacturing Moves to India and Southeast Asia Amid Trade Frictions | International Business News – The Times of India
China is restricting the export of high-tech manufacturing equipment and personnel to India and Southeast Asia, aiming to maintain domestic production amid potential US tariffs, impacting companies like Foxconn and BYD.
China Curbs on High-Tech Manufacturing
China is intensifying restrictions on the movement of employees and specialized equipment essential for high-tech manufacturing in India and Southeast Asia. This measure aims to prevent companies from relocating production due to potential tariffs under the incoming US administration. Beijing has urged local governments to restrict technology transfers and export of manufacturing tools as part of this strategy.
Impact on Foxconn and Apple’s Strategy
Foxconn, Apple’s primary assembly partner, is facing challenges in sending staff and receiving equipment in India, which could impact production. Despite these hurdles, current manufacturing operations remain unaffected. The Chinese government insists it treats all nations equally while reinforcing its domestic production to mitigate job losses and retain foreign investments.
Broader Implications for India
Additionally, these restrictions affect electric vehicle and solar panel manufacturers in India, notably BYD and Waaree Energies. Although the measures are not explicitly targeting India, they complicate the business landscape. As foreign companies seek alternatives to China, these developments are likely to reshape manufacturing strategies amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Business
EFIS Maroc and China Eastern Airlines Set to Launch Service Between Morocco and China
China Eastern Airlines and EFIS Maroc will launch three weekly flights between Casablanca and Shanghai via Marseille starting January 19, 2025, enhancing cargo logistics for Morocco-China trade, particularly in the automotive sector.
New Flight Route Launch
China Eastern Airlines has partnered with EFIS Maroc to introduce three weekly flights between Casablanca (CMN) and Shanghai (PVG) via Marseille (MRS). This service is set to commence on January 19, 2025, operating on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, using Boeing 787-900 aircraft with a capacity of 18 tonnes for cargo.
Supporting the Automotive Industry
The service aims to enhance logistical support for the automotive sector, facilitating the secure and timely transport of high-value components between Morocco and China. This new route will not only strengthen local supply chains but also promote economic growth and trade relations between Africa and Asia.
Innovative Cargo Solutions
Jean Ceccaldi, CEO of ECS Group, emphasized that this collaboration marks a significant achievement for EFIS Maroc. Leveraging advanced digital tools like Squair for customs optimization and CargoAi for booking, EFIS Maroc will enhance operational efficiency, ensuring a superior cargo management solution tailored for China Eastern Airlines.
Source : EFIS Maroc and China Eastern Airlines to launch Morocco-China service
Business
China Considers Selling TikTok US Operations to Musk as a Viable Option – Bloomberg
China is considering the sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations to Elon Musk as a potential option, according to a report by Bloomberg.
Potential Sale of TikTok to Elon Musk
Reports suggest that China is considering the sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations to Elon Musk as a viable option. This development follows ongoing scrutiny over the app’s data privacy practices and its links to the Chinese government. Officials believe that a sale could alleviate international concerns and preserve the platform’s presence in the U.S. market.
Strategic Implications
The potential transaction raises numerous strategic implications, not only for TikTok but also for Musk’s other ventures. If Musk were to acquire TikTok, it could enhance his digital footprint and provide new avenues for advertising and user engagement. Conversely, it could pose challenges in managing regulatory compliance and addressing data security issues.
Regulatory Hurdles Ahead
Despite the intriguing prospect of a sale, significant regulatory hurdles remain. Any acquisition would require approval from U.S. authorities, who continue to assess the risks associated with foreign ownership of tech companies. The outcome of these discussions could have widespread ramifications for both TikTok and the broader social media landscape.
Source : China Weighs Sale of TikTok US to Musk as a Possible Option – Bloomberg
- China Limits Apple Operations as BYD Manufacturing Moves to India and Southeast Asia Amid Trade Frictions | International Business News – The Times of India
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- EFIS Maroc and China Eastern Airlines Set to Launch Service Between Morocco and China
- China Considers Selling TikTok US Operations to Musk as a Viable Option – Bloomberg
