Hong Kong

Chinese suppliers play a key role in providing Russia with components for the production of attack drones used against Ukraine. 92% of foreign components in Russian drones are of Chinese origin, with supplies made directly and through intermediaries.

A new Covid strain, Stratus, is spreading in the UK, featuring a unique symptom – hoarseness of voice. Variants XFG and XFG.3 account for about 30% of Covid-19 cases in England, but do not cause more severe illness.

The Japanese government has warned of possible strong earthquakes southwest of the main islands, urging people not to believe unsubstantiated forecasts. This comes after a series of tremors fueled rumors of a "great catastrophe," which affected tourism.

The Donald Trump administration eased sanctions against Russia, allowing related companies to transfer funds and critical components. This led to a decrease in the effectiveness of existing restrictions, allowing the import of computer chips and military equipment.

The head of the Central Bank of China announced the emergence of a new currency order, where the yuan will compete with the dollar. China strives for a multipolar system against the background of trade disputes with the United States.

The US plans to revoke visas for Chinese students affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party or critical industries. This could escalate tensions between America and China.

In Hong Kong, names were chosen for the first local panda cubs. According to the voting results, the babies were named Jia Jia and De De, which mean family happiness and success.

Gold prices fell after Trump delayed the introduction of 50% duties on European goods. Interest in gold as a safe asset has decreased.

The cryptocurrency recovered after a correction, reaching $109,457. 9 due to profit-taking. Favorable regulatory news in the US and Hong Kong also positively influenced the market.

Joseph Lau raised 72. 9 million Hong Kong dollars by selling a collection of wines at Christie's auction. A lot of 10 bottles of Henri Jayer 1999 was sold for 3.25 million Hong Kong dollars.

Trump closed a loophole for duty-free parcels, leading to higher prices for Shein and Temu for American customers. This is due to the fight against smuggling and the protection of American business.

The White House has criticized Amazon for displaying Trump's tariffs in price tags. This has caused a conflict with the Trump administration, which considers it a hostile act.

The price of gold soared to record highs, exceeding $3486 per ounce, due to fears that Trump would fire the head of the Fed. This triggered a flight from the dollar and American assets.

The grey market for gadgets in Ukraine caused losses of UAH 5. 5 billion in VAT, the share of grey Apple reaches 71%. The problem is global: the EU and the US are also fighting smuggling and billions in losses from grey imports.

China imposed sanctions against US Congress members, government officials, and NGO leaders for their "egregious behavior on issues related to Hong Kong". This was a response to US sanctions against Chinese and Hong Kong officials, which Beijing strongly condemns.

Ukraine women's national ice hockey team defeated Belgium in the fourth match of the World Championship. This victory guaranteed the team maintaining their place in Division IIB for next year.

Donald Trump instructed to study the supply chains of minerals and look for ways to increase production in the USA. This could lead to a new phase of escalating relations with China.

Hongkong Post is suspending the processing of parcels to/from the US from April 27 due to Trump's cancellation of the "de minimis" exception. The Hong Kong government condemns the US actions, hinting at a trade war.

Small chains sell iPhones cheaper thanks to schemes with sole proprietorships and smuggling. This allows them to evade taxes.

The US and China are fighting for rare earth metals, affecting economic stability. Ukraine and the US are working on an agreement to jointly protect minerals.

Singapore Changi Airport has once again topped the Skytrax ranking. It features a shopping mall, gardens, waterfall, resorts, hotels, exhibitions, a museum, cinema and theme park.

Due to Trump's tariffs and the trade war, the situation in the markets is deteriorating. US stocks are falling, and Asian markets are suffering from their worst week since the pandemic.

Paul Chan said that Trump's tariffs crashed the US stock market. Hong Kong will not introduce countermeasures, but opposes US actions, maintaining a free and open economy.

Global stock markets fell after Trump announced new tariffs. Nike, Apple, H&M and other companies that depend on imports were the most affected.

The US government has banned its employees in China from having romantic relationships with Chinese citizens due to the threat of espionage. Violators face immediate expulsion from the country.

The US has imposed sanctions against Chinese officials over the security law. Their assets in the US will be frozen and financial transactions blocked.

Trump proposed a deal to Ukraine under which the US would receive half of the revenue from mineral extraction. This should compensate the US for its support of Ukraine, but limits its economic independence.

Hong Kong's aviation regulator has banned charging devices from power banks and storing them in overhead luggage compartments on airplanes. The reason is cases of lithium battery ignition.

In 2024, Russia transported more than 60% of its seaborne oil exports thanks to a shadow fleet of tankers. Total seaborne oil exports are estimated at over €80 billion.

In the Hong Kong Zoo, panda cubs, twins, met visitors for the first time together with their mother, Ying Ying. Visiting hours have been extended for panda fans.