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SCMP

Catch up on some of SCMP’s biggest China stories of the day. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.
1. Second reusable rocket recovery failure in a month puts China 10 years behind US
The Long March 12A, China’s first state-owned reusable rocket, made its debut launch on Tuesday morning but the recovery of the first stage was a failure.
2. ‘Urgent’: has mainland China changed tone for Taiwan peaceful reunification?
Analysts examine Taiwan-related policy announcements, a new commemoration day and military posturing for clues to Beijing’s intent.
3. US adds new models of China’s DJI and all other foreign drones to its blacklist

The US telecommunications regulator said it is adding Shenzhen-based DJI, the world’s largest drone maker, to a list of companies determined to pose “unacceptable risks” to US national security, marking a significant escalation in Washington’s effort to crack down on Chinese drones.
4. China says US broke international law by seizing oil tankers off Venezuela
China accused the United States on Monday of violating international law by seizing oil tankers off Venezuela, as Washington intensified pressure on President Nicolas Maduro’s government and a senior US official openly suggested that he should be removed from power.
5. What China’s global yuan push looks like – and what could hold it back

The yuan has strengthened in recent months, with the offshore rate hitting its highest level against the US dollar in more than a year, fuelling forecasts that it could reach as high as 6.8 in 2026.
6. China drafts Antarctica activities and environment law to protect interests
China has drafted a law on Antarctic affairs, as Beijing looks to protect its interests and strengthen its role in the governance of the southernmost continent.
7. Fringe view of China’s history sparks official rebuke after going viral online

A wave of online discussion blaming China’s last imperial dynasty for national historical sufferings has prompted official criticism after touching on sensitive questions, and ignited debate over historical narrative, nationalism and social governance.


Cheaper durians for China, Hong Kong helpers camp in tents: 5 weekend reads you missed

King Charles’ gift amuses Chinese, anti-spy agency makes allegation: SCMP’s 7 highlights

A 60-year-old Singaporean pole dancer, Guizhou’s spicy food: 7 Lifestyle highlights

China’s EV makers to cut charging times; Tesla rival Li Auto’s expansion: 7 EV reads

SCMP Highlights

China’s reusable rocket ambitions suffer setback, US blacklists DJI: SCMP daily highlights

China’s Long March 12A, the country’s first state-owned reusable rocket, has failed on its debut launch on Tuesday morning. Photo: Weibo

A drone on display at DJI’s flagship shop in Hong Kong. The Trump administration has barred the approval of Shenzhen-based DJI’s new models. Photo: Reuters

The yuan has seen a notable rise as a settlement currency in China’s international trade flows. Photo: Shutterstock

The “1644 perspective” that frames the Ming dynasty as a golden age of prosperity and advancement has been widely shared on China’s social media. Photo: Handout

‘Saturation attacks’: drone swarms key for wartime victory, Chinese military paper says

Concentrated drone formations in wartime are capable of “forcing the enemy into a state of exhaustion and passive defence”, PLA Daily article says. Photo: Shutterstock 

Taiwan ramps up security measures for coming holidays after deadly stabbings

A passer-by places flowers at a make-shift shrine for the victims inside a Taipei shopping mall on December 20, the day after a deadly knife rampage shook Taiwan. Photo: EPA

Police keep watch at a busy intersection near the crime scene, in Taipei on December 20. Photo: EPA

News

China

From China’s booster rocket woes to Beijing condemning US seizure of oil tankers, here’s a round-up from today’s coverage


From China’s booster rocket woes to Beijing condemning US seizure of oil tankers, here’s a round-up from today’s coverage.


China’s reusable rocket ambitions suffer setback, US blacklists DJI: SCMP daily highlights

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}From China’s booster rocket woes to Beijing condemning US seizure of oil tankers, here’s a round-up from today’s coverage

1. Second reusable rocket recovery failure in a month puts China 10 years behind US

From China’s booster rocket woes to Beijing condemning US seizure of oil tankers, here’s a round-up from today’s coverage