Trade and Investment China

China has introduced regulations governing AI companions and other human-like AI interactive services. The Interim Measures for the Administration of AI Anthropomorphic Interactive Services , which took effect on 15 July 2026 , aim to promote the safe and responsible development of AI while reducing risks such as emotional dependency, manipulation, and psychological harm. The regulations require providers to implement age verification, conduct security assessments, protect users' personal information, and introduce anti-addiction measures. The provisions also prohibit AI services from offering virtual romantic partner or virtual family relationship services to minors and require providers to clearly inform users when they are interacting with AI rather than a human.   The regulatory framework is further supported by Guideline TC260-005, issued in May 2026, and two national standards GB/T 46901-2025 and GB/T 46903-2025 which came into effect on 1 July 2026.   As AI ...

China’s e-commerce ecosystem is largely driven by mobile wallets and QR code-based payment systems with Alipay and WeChat Pay together accounting for over 90% of the mobile payments market. Alipay holds approximately 53% of the market share, while WeChat Pay accounts for about 42% ( CoinLaw, 2026 ). In China’s business environment, integrating local payment methods is essential for both online and in-person transactions. These platforms enable real-time purchases, fund transfers, and access to a wide range of in-app services, making it central to e-commerce transactions and everyday consumer activity across China.   The Platforms Alipay - China’s largest online payment platform, originally developed within Alibaba’s e-commerce ecosystem. Website: https://www.alipay.com   WeChat Pay - A platform embedded within WeChat that serves as China’s dominant social and digital ecosystem. Website : https://pay.weixin.qq.com   Quick Tips Set up before arrival - download the apps a...

China has introduced measures to ensure adequate fertilizer availability and stable prices in support of agricultural production and food security. In February 2026, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) directed authorities and producers to maintain fertilizer production, secure supplies of key raw materials, improve logistics, and stabilize market prices. The Ministry of Commerce ( MOFCOM ) also implemented the 2026 fertilizer import Tariff-Rate Quota (TRQ) system for Urea, Diammonium Phosphate (DAP), and compound fertilizers to help ensure sufficient domestic supply.   The General Administration of Customs ( GAC ) continues to oversee fertilizer exports through inspection requirements for key fertilizer products, enabling authorities to monitor trade flows and support market stability.   Read more from the links in the text and below.   Reuters, 2026 , MOFCOM, 2026 , NDRC, 2026 , Risso, 2026 , Fertilizer Daily, 2026       ...

China’s high-speed rail network connects major cities offering fast, comfortable, and popular travel for locals and visitors. Tickets can be purchased easily through various online and offline channels, including the official railway app , station counters, kiosks, third-party and mobile payments platforms. Passengers must present a passport (foreigners) or national identification (Chinese citizens) when buying tickets or boarding. The following are key ticket purchasing options to explore: Online Platforms 12306 Official Website and App 12306 WeChat Mini Program Alipay Travel Service Trusted third‑party platforms like Trip.com   Offline Options Train station ticket counters Self‑service machines at stations Authorized ticket offices in cities   #ChinaTravel #TrainTickets #12306 #WeChatPay #Alipay #RailJourney #TravelTips

China has strengthened its trade secrets protection framework through the issuance of the Regulations on the Protection of Trade Secrets (SAMR Order No. 126) by the State Administration for Market Regulation ( SAMR ). The regulations took effect on 1 June 2026, further refining enforcement under the Anti-Unfair Competition Law framework.   The regulations clarify the definition of trade secrets and require businesses to implement reasonable confidentiality measures, including Non-Disclosure Agreements, access controls, and data security systems. It also expands protection to cover digital information such as source code, algorithms, and datasets.   Enforcement provisions are strengthened to address unauthorized acquisition, use, or disclosure of trade secrets, including cyber intrusion and electronic data theft. Liability may extend to third parties who knew or should have known that information was improperly obtained.   The full text of the regulation can...