China
The Hong Kong crisis
Author: Editorial Board, ANU
Street protests that have gripped Hong Kong for over four months are becoming more violent. Some protestors have begun attacking police and police are firing live rounds at protestors. Last week a protestor was shot and a policeman stabbed in the neck. As tensions mount between the public and police, Hong Kong’s authorities are under increasing pressure to find a solution. If they fail, Beijing has threatened to intervene — a move that could bring to an end what remains of the ‘one country, two systems’ model that has preserved Hong Kong’s autonomy since the former British colony’s return to Chinese sovereignty in 1997.
The street protests began in June in response to an extradition bill proposed by Hong Kong’s executive. Under the terms of the bill, Beijing could request the extradition of Hong Kong residents accused of a crime in the People’s Republic of China. The extradition bill was widely seen as an attack on Hong Kong’s autonomy and freedom because it would enable China’s authoritarian government to get their hands not only on wanted felons, but theoretically on anyone who displeased it, including dissidents. It was also seen as confirmation that Hong Kong’s government cared more about its political masters in Beijing than the citizens of Hong Kong.
With Beijing’s backing, Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam at first stood firm, but eventually relented as protests swelled to hundreds of thousands of people and it became clear that opposition to the bill was widespread and deeply felt. Ms Lam agreed to shelve the bill. But the protest movement raged on, demanding that the bill be completely withdrawn, and that an independent inquiry be held into police responses to the protests. In July protesters stormed parliament. Ms Lam ultimately agreed to withdraw the extradition bill, but the gesture appeared to come too late to quell the protests, which soon gave voice to other grievances and demands.
As Tim Summers notes in one of two lead articles this week, Hong Kong’s protest movement ‘has ventured far beyond the original catalyst, the government’s extradition bill,’ to reflect ‘deep dislocations in Hong Kong’ including ‘identity politics and socio-economic problems’ that have been simmering since the territory’s return to Chinese sovereignty two decades ago. Summers notes protesters’ demands for universal suffrage and political reform (Hong Kong’s convoluted electoral system ensures that only Beijing-backed candidates can be selected as chief executive), but is sceptical about the prospects for such reform given that Beijing’s approval would be needed. Summers argues that politicians should instead turn their attention to ‘daily gripes’ about education, healthcare, public transport and housing affordability.
In her annual policy address to the Legislative Council (LegCo) on 16 October, Ms Lam attempted to do just that. In the address, which is similar to the State of the Union address delivered annually by the US President to Congress, Ms Lam sought to focus on economic grievances, proposing to reclaim more land and to build more public housing. But Ms Lam was heckled by councillors before she got to the podium. Someone played a recording of protestors’ screams as they were hit with tear gas by police. Outside, protesters gathered to demand her resignation. The reception was so hostile that, after two failed attempts to speak directly to councillors, Ms Lam was forced to retreat to a secure location to give her address via video.
Before it was delivered, the address was widely seen as a critical test for Ms Lam and her ability to manage the upswell of discontent. What happens next is unclear. More concessions are unlikely. The police have been given new powers and, since 4 October, protestors are prohibited from wearing masks which, along with umbrellas, had become a potent symbol of the protest movement.
In our other lead article this week, Ben Hillman writes that public opinion on the Chinese Mainland is strongly in favour of direct intervention in Hong Kong — something Beijing has threatened if Hong Kong’s political and business elite are unable to find a solution to the protests which are now in their 20th week. Hillman says that China’s state-run media have portrayed the protests as a pro-Hong Kong independence movement led by ‘criminals and terrorists’ and supported by ‘foreign black hands’. Hillman says that one-sided media coverage has left the mainstream Chinese public unaware of Hong Kongers’…
Business
Gordonstoun Severs Connections with Business Led by Individual Accused of Espionage for China
Gordonstoun school severed ties with Hampton Group over espionage allegations against chairman Yang Tengbo. He denies involvement and claims to be a victim of political tensions between the UK and China.
Allegations Lead to School’s Decision
Gordonstoun School in Moray has cut ties with Hampton Group International after serious allegations surfaced regarding its chairman, Yang Tengbo, who is accused of being a spy for the Chinese government. Known by the alias "H6," Mr. Tengbo was involved in a deal that aimed to establish five new schools in China affiliated with Gordonstoun. However, the recent allegations compelled the school to terminate their agreement.
Public Denial and Legal Action
In response to the spying claims, Mr. Tengbo publicly revealed his identity, asserting that he has committed no wrongdoing. A close associate of Prince Andrew and a former Gordonstoun student himself, Mr. Tengbo has strenuously denied the accusations, stating that he is a target of the escalating tensions between the UK and China. He has claimed that his mistreatment is politically motivated.
Immigration Challenges and Legal Responses
Yang Tengbo, also known as Chris Yang, has faced additional challenges regarding his immigration status in the UK. After losing an appeal against a ban enacted last year, he reiterated his innocence, condemning media speculation while emphasizing his commitment to clear his name. Gordonstoun, on its part, stated its inability to divulge further details due to legal constraints.
Source : Gordonstoun cuts ties with business chaired by man accused of spying for China
Business
China Dismantles Prominent Uyghur Business Landmark in Xinjiang – Shia Waves
The Chinese government demolished the Rebiya Kadeer Trade Center in Xinjiang, affecting Uyghur culture and commerce, prompting criticism from activists amid concerns over cultural erasure and human rights violations.
Demolition of a Cultural Landmark
The Chinese government recently demolished the Rebiya Kadeer Trade Center in Urumqi, Xinjiang, a vital hub for Uyghur culture and commerce, as reported by VOA. This center, once inhabited by more than 800 predominantly Uyghur-owned businesses, has been deserted since 2009. Authorities forcibly ordered local business owners to vacate the premises before proceeding with the demolition, which took place without any public notice.
Condemnation from Activists
Uyghur rights activists have condemned this demolition, perceiving it as part of China’s broader strategy to undermine Uyghur identity and heritage. The event has sparked heightened international concern regarding China’s policies in Xinjiang, which have been characterized by allegations of mass detentions and cultural suppression, prompting claims of crimes against humanity.
Rebiya Kadeer’s Response
Rebiya Kadeer, the center’s namesake and a notable Uyghur rights advocate, criticized the demolition as a deliberate attempt to erase her legacy. Kadeer, who has been living in exile in the U.S. since her release from imprisonment in 2005, continues to advocate for Uyghur rights. She has expressed that her family members have suffered persecution due to her activism, while the Chinese government has yet to comment on the legal ramifications of the demolition.
Source : China Demolishes Uyghur Business Landmark in Xinjiang – Shia Waves
China
China Expands Nationwide Private Pension Scheme After Two-Year Pilot Program
China’s private pension scheme, previously piloted in 36 cities, will roll out nationwide on December 15, 2024, enabling workers to open tax-deferred accounts. The initiative aims to enhance retirement savings, address aging population challenges, and stimulate financial sector growth.
After a two-year pilot program, China has officially expanded its private pension scheme nationwide. Starting December 15, 2024, workers covered by urban employee basic pension insurance or urban-rural resident basic pension insurance across the country can participate in this supplementary pension scheme. This nationwide rollout represents a significant milestone in China’s efforts to build a comprehensive pension system, addressing the challenges of a rapidly aging population.
On December 12, 2024, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, together with four other departments including the Ministry of Finance, the State Taxation Administration, the Financial Regulatory Administration, and the China Securities Regulatory Commission, announced the nationwide implementation of China’s private pension scheme effective December 15, 2024. The initiative extends eligibility to all workers enrolled in urban employee basic pension insurance or urban-rural resident basic pension insurance.
A notable development is the expansion of tax incentives for private pensions, previously limited to pilot cities, to a national scale. Participants can now enjoy these benefits across China, with government agencies collaborating to ensure seamless implementation and to encourage broad participation through these enhanced incentives.
China first introduced its private pension scheme in November 2022 as a pilot program covering 36 cities and regions, including major hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xi’an, and Chengdu. Under the program, individuals were allowed to open tax-deferred private pension accounts, contributing up to RMB 12,000 (approximately $1,654) annually to invest in a range of retirement products such as bank deposits, mutual funds, commercial pension insurance, and wealth management products.
Read more about China’s private pension pilot program launched two years ago: China Officially Launches New Private Pension Scheme – Who Can Take Part?
The nationwide implementation underscores the Chinese government’s commitment to addressing demographic challenges and promoting economic resilience. By providing tax advantages and expanding access, the scheme aims to incentivize long-term savings and foster greater participation in personal retirement planning.
The reform is expected to catalyze growth in China’s financial and insurance sectors while offering individuals a reliable mechanism to enhance their retirement security.
| This article was first published by China Briefing , which is produced by Dezan Shira & Associates. The firm assists foreign investors throughout Asia from offices across the world, including in in China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore, and India . Readers may write to info@dezshira.com for more support. |
Read the rest of the original article.
- Gordonstoun Severs Connections with Business Led by Individual Accused of Espionage for China
- China Dismantles Prominent Uyghur Business Landmark in Xinjiang – Shia Waves
- China Expands Nationwide Private Pension Scheme After Two-Year Pilot Program
- How a scandal over sanitary pads is shaping feminist activism in China
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