China

Global YouTube star MrBeast, boasting approximately 800 million followers across platforms, will debut on Chinese platform Kuaishou with a livestream on July 26th. Ranked #1 on Forbes’ Top Creators list, MrBeast is known for his visually spectacular, challenge-based content featuring cash giveaways and philanthropy. He is reportedly planning a large-scale program in China later this year, highlighting the growing trend of Western influencers expanding into the Chinese market. His content style involves time-intensive extreme challenges and lucrative cash prizes.

A recent graduate in China claims a company threatened to blacklist him after he rejected a job offer due to a late salary payment and long commute. The company’s HR representative allegedly accused him of lacking integrity for applying to multiple positions. Legal experts suggest that publicly disseminating information about his actions could constitute a breach of his rights. Analysts emphasize that job seekers are entitled to apply for multiple positions and reject offers before signing a contract. The graduate could report the company to the police or pursue legal action.

A man in Hubei Province, China, was sentenced to five years in prison and fined 50,000 RMB for extorting restaurants by planting ants in his meals. Rong, unemployed since 2019, began the scam in 2022, targeting establishments in public locations and demanding compensation to avoid negative publicity. He received 71,661 RMB from 283 instances. The court convicted Rong of extortion, citing the substantial amount obtained and the adverse impact on public perception. He must also return the illegally gained funds.

China’s food delivery subsidy war is likely winding down. Reports indicate a decrease in the massive discounts that previously characterized the market. While coupons are still available, the period of heavily subsidized deliveries, sometimes offering meals for free, appears to be ending.

China’s express delivery volume has ranked first globally for 11 years, processing over 500 million parcels daily. In 2024, central and western China saw express delivery growth rates significantly above the national average, indicating successful strategic investments. The postal sector strengthens the modern circulation system and promotes balanced development. China is enhancing rural delivery logistics, aiming to bridge the urban-rural consumption gap. Xinjiang has achieved universal free e-commerce shipping, boosting agricultural product sales and improving rural residents’ access to online shopping. The sector’s growth also creates local employment opportunities.

In a CCTV News interview, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang lauded China’s technological innovation and vitality, emphasizing Nvidia’s 30-year commitment to the market. Huang highlighted companies like DeepSeek, utilizing the H20 chip for AI innovation, and Xiaomi’s advancements in electric vehicles. While avoiding direct answers regarding advanced chip supply under potential limitations, he noted that constraints can foster innovation, referencing Alibaba and DeepSeek’s achievements. He acknowledged China’s impressive development speed in the EV sector.

A debate over instant noodle consumption on Chinese high-speed trains has sparked online controversy. While some passengers complain about overpriced train food and support the affordable convenience of noodles, others argue their strong odor is disruptive. Official notices request travelers avoid strongly scented foods. However, a 12306 representative clarified there’s no specific ban, and bringing outside food is permitted, though availability of instant noodles for purchase varies by train. The core issue revolves around balancing individual choice with consideration for fellow passengers in a shared space.

Xiaomi’s YU7 electric SUV has garnered over 240,000 pre-orders within 18 hours of launch, signaling a shift in China’s economic outlook. Defying expectations of a price war, Xiaomi focused on innovation and user experience with both the SU7 and YU7 models. Experts suggest Chinese consumers are willing to invest in domestic EVs that meet their needs and demonstrate quality, driving companies toward increased R&D investment. Ford CEO Jim Farley acknowledged China’s advanced EV technology, further highlighting Xiaomi’s potential as a major consumer brand in the automotive sector.

The trending “Free Bubble Tea is Gone” hashtag on Weibo signals a potential shift in China’s food delivery market. Intense subsidy wars between giants like Meituan and Ele.me led to rock-bottom prices, but the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) has intervened, urging a more sustainable competitive approach. Experts question the long-term viability of aggressive discounts, suggesting that neither platforms nor merchants can indefinitely bear the financial burden of these “delivery wars,” which aim to dominate China’s local services market.

Despite regulatory warnings from SAMR to Ele.me, Meituan, and JD.com regarding fair competition, the online food delivery subsidy war continues in China. Taobao Flash Sales maintained its “Super Saturday” promotion, but with tempered subsidies. While “zero-yuan” takeout orders were still possible, discounts were less aggressive than previous weeks. Meituan also reduced its high-value coupons. JD.com offered milder subsidies. The long-term impact of regulation on market competition is yet to be determined.