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Explainers

In-depth guides that explain China’s technology, policy, and business landscape — from chipmaking and AI to space, energy, and geopolitics. Built for readers who want context, not just headlines.

CATL: Understanding the World's Largest Battery Maker and What Drives Its Dominance

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) has emerged as the world's leading manufacturer of batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. But what exactly makes a battery company valuable, and why does this particular Chinese firm command such attention from global automakers and investors? This explainer breaks

China’s eVTOL Industry Explained: Why Urban Air Mobility Is Moving From Hype to Hard Infrastructure

What is eVTOL, and why does it matter? eVTOL—short for electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft—refers to a new class of electrically powered aircraft designed to take off and land vertically, without traditional runways. In policy and industry discussions, eVTOL is often treated as the technological backbone

China’s 6G Push Explained: More Than Just Faster Mobile Internet

6G is commonly described as the next generation of mobile communication technology, expected to arrive around 2030. Officially, it is known as IMT-2030, the global framework defined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). But unlike earlier wireless upgrades, 6G is not just a technical evolution. It is also a

China’s AI Entrance Battle: Why User Entry Points Matter More Than Models

In the history of China’s internet, power has always belonged to the gatekeepers. First, it was web portals like Sina; then, search engines like Baidu; and most recently, "Super Apps" like WeChat. Now, a new structural shift is underway. The next battleground for China’s tech giants—

China’s EV Industry Enters Its Hardest Phase: What Really Changes After Subsidies Fade

China’s electric vehicle (EV) market has already crossed its most visible milestone: new-energy vehicles now account for more than half of all new car sales. But the more consequential transition is only beginning. As policy support recedes and basic electrification becomes commoditized, competition is shifting toward deeper capabilities—

What Is China’s G60 Satellite Program — And Why 2027 Matters

* G60 (千帆) is China’s most prominent proposed LEO satellite mega‑constellation, often compared with SpaceX’s Starlink. * The real constraint is not ambition, but ITU spectrum and orbital deadlines (the so‑called Bring‑Into‑Use, BIU, rules). * 2024–2027 is the decisive window: miss it, and spectrum filings risk

What happened to Labubu — and why Pop Mart’s boom turned into a bust

What is Labubu (and who is Pop Mart)? Labubu is a character IP — a small, quirky “furry” figure sold as collectible toys (blind-box figures, plushes and limited editions). Pop Mart is the Beijing-based company that builds and monetises toy IPs through designer collections, blind-box retail, branded stores

What Is Alibaba’s Qwen App — And Why It Signals the Rise of AI That Gets Things Done

* Qwen App (千问) is Alibaba’s AI assistant designed not just to chat, but to complete real-world tasks such as ordering food, booking flights, and shopping. * By deeply integrating with Taobao, Alipay, Ele.me, Fliggy, and Amap, Qwen enables end-to-end transactions inside a single AI interface. * This