China’s state media push: floods, mine blasts, and Xi-era graft crackdowns dominate headlines today via Xinhua. Official mouthpiece of PRC.
On March 12, 2026, China’s National People’s Congress approved a five-year plan aiming for 4.5-5% GDP growth in 2026 amid economic slowdown. The plan prioritizes technological self-reliance in AI, quantum computing, biotech, and green energy, while addressing demographic challenges and social welfare. It reflects China's strategic push for innovation and stability amid global geopolitical tensions, including the Middle East conflict.
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of loyalty within the military during the annual 'two sessions,' amid ongoing anti-corruption campaigns targeting high-ranking officers. Recent dismissals and a 7% defense budget increase highlight efforts to reform and secure absolute loyalty in China’s armed forces.
China has launched a crackdown on fentanyl precursor chemicals, investigating 22 cases in Hubei province since December. The operation follows a US-China agreement to curb precursor trade in exchange for tariff reductions. The move signals efforts to address US concerns over opioid-related deaths and drug trafficking.
Xinhua reports a Liushenyu coal mine blast near Changzhi has trapped 247 workers. Shanxi, China’s key coal region, has seen safety reforms after past accidents; authorities are conducting rescue operations while investigating the cause.
A blast at a Liuyang fireworks plant in Hunan province has injured dozens as authorities halt nearby production and investigate the cause. One person remains missing and on-site rescue is continuing.
Severe rainfall has triggered floods and resettlement across southern and central China. Authorities warn of more downpours as rescue efforts continue and emergency responses are under way in Hunan, Hubei, Guangxi and other provinces.
A gas explosion has struck the Liushenyu coal mine in Qinyuan county, Shanxi, leaving dozens dead and scores injured. Authorities have reported 247 workers underground, detained company executives and ordered nationwide inspections of coal‑mine safety. Rescue teams are continuing search efforts and two workers remain missing.
Beijing has expelled Vivian Wang of The New York Times after a DealBook appearance by Taiwan’s Lai Ching-te; the United States has responded by revoking a visa for a Chinese state-media journalist, in a tit-for-tat move that underscores deteriorating press access and ongoing tensions between Beijing, Taipei and Washington.