China News Headlines Today – July 31, 2025
1. Typhoon Co-May Strikes Eastern China, Causes Large-Scale Evacuations
Typhoon Co-May struck Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province, with winds of 83 km/h, prompting authorities to activate an orange alert for adjacent coastal areas, including Shanghai. More than 280,000 residents were evacuated, and authorities canceled ferry operations and several hundred flights as a precaution. Emergency response teams were sent across eastern China, particularly in low-lying coastal areas, to support displaced communities.
2. Severe Flooding in Northern China Kills 30 and Leaves Thousands Homeless
In the north, particularly Beijing and Hebei, record rainfall caused flash floods and landslides. At least 30 have lost their lives, and more than 80,000 have been evacuated. Images from the affected areas show cars submerged in water, broken roads, and snapped power cables. Meteorologists predict more rain and instructed people to avoid low-lying areas and riverbanks.
3. China Politburo Holds Back From Promising New Economic Stimulus
The Chinese Communist Party's Politburo, in its latest quarterly gathering, resolved not to introduce new economic stimulus in the face of growing fear of sluggish recovery. The leadership instead emphasized better implementation of existing policies and aid for small businesses, domestic consumption, and the property sector. Analysts detected a cautious tone, which signaled Beijing may prioritize long-term reforms rather than short-term injections.
4. U.S.–China Trade Talks Advance with Tariff Truce Extension Prospect
Senior trade talks in Stockholm between the U.S. and China concluded with a reciprocal commitment to consider prolonging the existing tariff truce beyond the August 12 deadline. The two sides described the negotiations as "constructive" and showed willingness to alleviate lingering tension in bilateral trade. Firms across Asia and North America welcomed the upbeat tone, anticipating further stability in supply chains.
5. Shaolin Temple Scandal: Abbot Shi Yongxin Removed Amid Corruption Probe
China's most famous spiritual leaders, Shi Yongxin, best known globally as the "CEO monk" of the Shaolin Temple, is under investigation on allegations of embezzlement, abuse of power for sex, and misuse of temple funds. His ordination was revoked by officials, and a new acting abbot was appointed. The scandal sent shockwaves throughout the local religious community and observers abroad.
6. China Crackdown on Cryptocurrency Embezzlement
In China's largest cryptocurrency-related conviction, a former tech executive whose last name is Feng has received a 14-year prison sentence for stealing over \\$19.5 million worth of Bitcoin and other virtual currencies. Officials revealed the funds were laundered through overseas accounts and shell accounts. The conviction is part of Beijing's continued crackdown on crypto-funded financial crimes, which are forbidden in China.
7. China, Russia to Hold Joint Naval Exercises Off Japan
China's defense ministry confirmed that China and Russia would hold joint naval exercises in August 2025 off the coast of Japan. The exercise includes combat simulations, anti-submarine warfare, and missile defence training. The exercise to be held is a showpiece of heightened China–Russia military cooperation, which has heightened regional security concerns for neighbours such as South Korea and Japan.
8. Xi Jinping Tightens Grip
Recent state media reporting has again confirmed the unchecked authority of President Xi Jinping, against speculation within the Communist Party. Despite rumors of party opposition to him, Xi is still the figure who captures headlines and official narratives. His political ideology, "Xi Jinping Thought," remains at the forefront of China's domestic and foreign policy agenda, Chinese commentators say.
9. China Reaffirms the U.S. as Key Economic Partner
China's commerce minister reaffirmed the country's position that the United States is a key trade partner, as geopolitical tensions rise. During a press conference, the minister said U.S. businesses are welcome to invest and urged sustained economic cooperation. The comments follow ongoing efforts to stabilize ties ahead of a possible Biden-Xi summit later this year.
Conclusion: A Defining Day in China's News Landscape
This day, July 31, 2025, China is faced with a cascade of defining moments—stretching from natural calamities and geopolitical maneuverings to anti-graft campaigns and crucial economic decisions. Even as Typhoon Co-May rages across the east and Beijing battles floods, China is also coping with sensitive trade relations with the U.S., maintaining political authority, and stamping out illicit crypto activities.
Stay tuned to this page for continued updates and in-depth analysis of all trending topics from China news.