Latest from China

China’s population dropped for a second straight year after Covid lockdowns

It dropped by two million people in 2023 in the second straight annual fall.

Nauru switches diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China

The move reduces the dwindling number of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies to 12 around world.

Taiwan elects candidate strongly opposed by China as president in historic vote

China had called the poll a choice between war and peace.

Five key risks to economy this year, ASB says

Inflation, Kiwi overspending, and a volatile global situation are getting attention.

China Construction Bank's mortgagee sale: 33 units go for $25m+

The bank put places up for mortgagee sale via JLL last year, a sign of repayment distress.

Greg Smith: What does 2024 have in store?

OPINION: Trump, the 'Magnificent Seven' and events close to home are worth watching.

Chess player sues to reclaim the title he lost for defecating in bath

Chess competitor has sued the national association in China for mental distress.

Carrington Resort: A high-end dream turned nightmare

The future of a resort plagued with community issues and lawsuits looks dire.

How China’s slowdown is deepening Hong Kong’s ‘existential crisis’

Financial Times: The territory’s reliance on China has turned into a mixed blessing.

Lift-off and loot: Man steals $34k from carry-on bags mid-flight

A passenger has been arrested for allegedly stealing $34k from travellers’ carry-on bag.

China quietly rebuilds secretive base for nuclear tests

New York Times: Could increase the lethality of China's rapidly expanding missile force.

NZ lawyer hired by Hong Kong tycoon to fight national security charges

Activist Jimmy Lai is charged with violating China-imposed national security law.

NZ and Aus increase defence co-operation to combat Pacific militarisation

The leaders of the two countries have met for the first time since Luxon became NZ PM.

Audrey Young: Foreign Minister Mark III - Peters surrounded by old work family

OPINION: Foreign policy is definitely under new management.

Earthquake in northwestern China kills at least 111 people

More than 200 people were injured in the magnitude 6.2 quake.

Car imports take a tumble in November but we still have a trade deficit

A big drop in EV imports is a strong feature of the latest overseas trade statistics.