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China has signaled willingness to expand tariff-free trade with the United States while imposing new restrictions on American firms. Ambassador Xie Feng proposed raising the tariff-free threshold from $30 billion to $300 billion, and Beijing's commerce ministry says both sides will continue discussing reciprocal tariff reductions.
Hainan province presented the investment potential of its free trade port at the 4th China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, highlighting reduced customs clearance times and a sharp rise in new business registrations. The province also showcased products from 22 local companies.
Dinesh Trivedi, India's new High Commissioner to Bangladesh, presented his credentials and announced the resumption of travel visas for Bangladeshi nationals, a move seen as a sign of thawing ties. Trivedi, a former Union minister, has been given cabinet minister rank, reflecting the importance New Delhi places on the relationship.
The Teochew-language indie film 'Dear You' has become a surprise box-office hit in China, earning over 1.6 billion yuan and sparking conversations about cultural heritage, migration, and soft power. The film's authentic portrayal of family separation through remittance letters has resonated deeply with audiences, both in China and across Southeast Asia.
Oil prices have dropped to levels not seen since before the Iran war began in late February, as traffic through the Strait of Hormuz gradually resumes following a US-Iran interim deal. The resumption has allowed stranded tankers, including Iraqi crude cargoes, to exit the Gulf, though analysts caution that a sustained recovery hinges on a final peace pact.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio concluded a Gulf tour with assurances that any deal with Iran would safeguard allies' security, as Gulf states fear the accord is too soft. He also denied reports that Israel is trying to undermine the agreement, while Iranian sources warn that US statements during the visit risk derailing the ceasefire.
As Europe faces a record-breaking heatwave, Asian manufacturers of air conditioners and fans, including Samsung, Midea, and Alibaba's platforms, are seeing significant sales growth. Reports highlight double-digit growth in key markets like Italy, Spain, and France, with some products selling out and supply chains straining to meet demand.
Iran's Revolutionary Guards have warned that vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz without authorization will be dealt with, as Tehran and Washington clash over fees and control of the waterway. Oman has announced an alternative route close to its shore, while Indonesia and Singapore vow to keep the Strait of Malacca accessible.
Two powerful earthquakes hit Venezuela on June 24, twice collapsing buildings in the capital Caracas and causing widespread damage. Al Jazeera reported a first quake of magnitude 7.1, while France 24 recorded it at magnitude 7.2, both followed by a 7.5 tremor. The United States, India and China have pledged assistance to the stricken country.
Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on June 24, causing widespread destruction and a rising death toll. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declared a state of emergency, while Russia, the EU, and Germany offered assistance. As rescue efforts continue, officials report varying casualty figures and significant damage, including in the hardest-hit state of La Guaira.
A series of powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, killing at least 32 people and injuring over 700, with officials warning the toll could rise. The international community, including the US, Israel, China, Spain, and Brazil, has offered assistance as the country faces potential economic losses up to 7% of its GDP.
South Korea and China have agreed to simplify the origin certification process and expand cooperation on services and investment under their bilateral FTA, following the 15th round of follow-up negotiations in Beijing. The two sides also pledged enhanced protection for South Korean content.
Hundreds of China's most senior military officers attended a 10-week ideology training camp ordered by President Xi Jinping, studying his speeches and reading confessions from corrupt cadres as part of the military's deepening anti-corruption drive, according to South China Morning Post reports.
Abelardo de la Espriella, known as 'El Tigre', won Colombia's presidential runoff, narrowly defeating leftist Iván Cepeda. Cepeda conceded after days of challenge, while outgoing President Gustavo Petro alleged fraud without providing evidence. The result marks a sharp rightward shift, with de la Espriella promising an 'iron fist' against crime and closer ties to the US.
US President Donald Trump expressed disappointment with NATO allies for not offering support during the US-Israel war on Iran, saying 'We were let down.' NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte defended European contributions, noting thousands of US flights took off from European bases. Trump also praised Turkey's president for staying out of the conflict.
AI-focused Super PACs have raised roughly $100m for the 2026 midterms, with a significant portion targeting a Manhattan primary and a Colorado race. The spending highlights the tech industry's push to influence AI legislation, with both pro- and anti-regulation groups pouring millions into key contests.
The US has temporarily lifted oil sanctions on Iran as part of an interim peace deal, allowing Tehran to sell crude and petrochemicals through August 21. The move could unlock billions for Iran, but analysts warn that dismantling decades of restrictions faces legal, political, and commercial hurdles.
Cai Lei, former JD.com vice-president battling ALS for seven years, has requested a divorce to spare his wife, Duan Rui, from the burden of his illness. Duan refused, continuing to support him and their joint advocacy efforts, including live-streaming to fund research. The couple's story highlights resilience and dedication amid a debilitating disease.
China has detained two Japanese nationals over alleged attempts to take rare earth-related products out of the country, prompting responses from both Tokyo and Beijing. The detentions coincide with new Chinese measures to police rare earth exports, set to take effect on July 1.
South Korea's military has taken a North Korean soldier into custody after he crossed the heavily fortified border, in what is believed to be a rare defection. The incident marks the fourth such crossing since the Lee Jae Myung administration began last year, raising questions about border security and defection routes.