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THIS WEEK:

Xi pushes advances in AI, four high-ranking officials purged, solar panels face 3,500% tariffs, China and the Philippines contest sandbar, and mental health screening now part of routine medical care

1. Xi Pushes Advances in AI

What Happened: The Politburo’s monthly study session on April 25 focused on artificial intelligence as a long-term national priority, with Xi Jinping reaffirming the need to “concentrate resources to overcome challenges in core technologies such as high-end chips and foundational software.” The session also stressed the need to create a self-reliant AI ecosystem and diffuse AI throughout society.

Why It Matters: Xi’s comments signal support for domestic chipmakers and software firms. While China trails in the most advanced chip-making technologies, it has a comparative advantage in other areas, not least its vast market and rich data resources. As the U.S.-China trade war deepens, prospects for collaboration on AI governance diminish.
 
By Barclay Bram, Fellow on Chinese Society, Center for China Analysis

Learn More: Watch a webinar moderated by CCA Fellow Lizzi C. Lee on the U.S.-China battle over AI governance.

2. Four High-Ranking Officials Purged

What Happened: The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission announced disciplinary actions against former Chongqing Security Chief Lu Kehua and former Gansu Vice Governor Zhao Jinyun after a six-month investigation into suspected criminal activity. Two others — a former mayor of Harbin and a vice president of China Construction Bank — were expelled from the Party.

Why It Matters: This marks the first time that Beijing has openly accused senior officials of “secretly criticizing the Party while publicly flattering it.” Since the release of the “Opinion on Strengthening the Party’s Political Development” in 2019, Beijing has increasingly emphasized the need for officials to live up to the Party’s fundamental values.

By Lobsang Tsering, Senior Research Associate, Center for China Analysis

Learn More: Explore the key decision-makers and complex informal networks shaping China’s future using CCA’s Decoding Chinese Politics interactive website.

3. Solar Panels Face 3,500% Tariffs

What Happened: On April 21, the U.S. Commerce Department finalized tariffs as high as 3,500% on solar imports from select Southeast Asian countries. The decision comes a year after American manufacturers filed a case accusing Chinese solar companies with factories in the region of dumping in the U.S. market. The International Trade Commission must vote in June on whether the industry was materially harmed before the tariffs can take effect.

Why It Matters: Steep tariffs on solar imports not only risk slowing the U.S. clean energy transition but also reflect a broader push to crack down on Chinese companies’ attempts to circumvent tariffs. This trend will likely shape ongoing negotiations between the United States and its global partners.
 
By Taylah Bland, Fellow on Climate and the Environment, Center for China Analysis (@Taylahbland)
 
Learn More: Watch “Take Note: U.S. Tariffs and Their Impact,” featuring ASPI’s Wendy Cutler and Akshay Mathur.

4. China and the Philippines Contest Sandbar

What Happened: A sandbar in the Spratly Islands became the dueling ground for flag-planting demonstrations by the Chinese and Filipino coast guards. The contested shoal is situated between Philippine-controlled Thitu Island and China-occupied Subi Reef. For the first time, both sides publicized their flag-planting campaigns on social media.

Why It Matters: China maintains a near-constant presence around Sandy Cay, mainly using its maritime militia, and its activities intensified after the Philippines began fortifying Thitu and the runway on the island a few years ago. While both countries have since departed Sandy Cay, the incident is a reminder of the persistent tensions in the South China Sea.

By Lyle Morris, Senior Fellow on Foreign Policy and National Security, Center for China Analysis (@LyleJMorris)

Learn More: For a deeper dive into China’s maritime strategy, read “The South China Sea and the Trump Factor” by CCA Fellow Andrew Chubb.

5. Mental Health Screening Now Part of Routine Medical Care

What Happened: Medical institutions across China have been instructed to incorporate mental health screening into all clinical diagnosis and treatment processes, according to a National Health Commission circular dated April 25. The announcement also directed local authorities to expand the workforce engaged in mental health and psychiatric services.

Why It Matters: Beijing is increasingly concerned about mass casualty attacks carried out by citizens under strain due to personal, financial, or psychological problems. Following a deadly car attack in Zhuhai last November, public security organs were ordered to be more vigilant in identifying high-risk individuals. By expanding mental health screening, Beijing hopes to get ahead of a problem it sees as a serious threat to social stability.

By G.A. Donovan, Fellow on Chinese Society and Political Economy, Center for China Analysis (@GA_DonovanASPI)

Learn More: Watch “China’s Wellness Boom: Healthy Mind, Healthy Spirit,” a discussion moderated by G.A. on why more people are turning to wellness practices and psychological counseling to manage the stresses of life in China.