16 Apr 2026
More recent developments
April 16, 2026
China’s strong Q1 GDP print masks underlying weaknesses
China's economy grew strongly in Q1 2026 – but momentum is starting to wane. Per data released by the stats bureau (NBS) on April 16: GDP grew 5.0% y/y in Q1, up from 4.5% in Q4 2025. On a quarter-on-quarter… Read More »
April 16, 2026
Wang Yi calls Iranian counterpart, US warns China on Iran weapons and oil
April 15 was another confusing day for US-China-Iran relations. First up, top diplomat Wang Yi called up Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, telling him that, while China supports Iran’s sovereignty and security interests (MoFA): "Efforts to restore normal navigation in… Read More »
April 16, 2026
Beijing pushed Maersk, MSC to withdraw from Panama Canal ports
China's macro planner (NDRC) reportedly pushed shipping giants Maersk and MSC to exit two key Panama Canal ports in March. Per an April 20 FT scoop, officials told top executives at the carriers to "withdraw...immediately" last month, warning against "activities… Read More »