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1. Chinese J-10C combat claims draw sharp contrast between social media and Beijing
As Chinese citizens celebrated the performance of the J-10C fighter jet in the India-Pakistan conflict – described by some as a “DeepSeek” moment for the country’s defence industry – Beijing remained cautious, a position analysts said was due to both geopolitical considerations and military prudence.
2. Chinese exports show resilience in April despite US tariffs
China has defied US President Donald Trump’s unprecedented tariff increases by posting stronger-than-expected export growth in April, potentially giving Chinese negotiators an advantage when they hold talks with their US counterparts in Switzerland at the weekend.
3. China is building the world’s tallest dam. It’s just started storing water
The Shuangjiangkou hydropower project in southwest China – which will be the world’s tallest dam when completed – began storing water on May 1, its developer said, taking it a step closer to getting up and running.