China, as one of the world’s leading powers, continues to dominate global headlines with developments spanning trade disputes, military activities, and domestic affairs. Below is a comprehensive roundup of the latest news from China as of September 16, 2025, based on recent reports and posts found on X.
U.S.-China Trade War Intensifies
Nvidia Faces Anti-Monopoly Probe
On September 15, 2025, China accused U.S. chipmaker Nvidia of violating its anti-monopoly laws, escalating tensions in the ongoing U.S.-China trade war. The accusation stems from a preliminary investigation by China’s State Administration for Market Regulation, initiated in December 2024, focusing on Nvidia’s business practices, particularly its acquisition commitments. The probe is seen as a retaliatory move amid U.S. export controls on advanced semiconductors, with analysts suggesting it gives China leverage in trade talks. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called the timing “poor,” as the announcement coincided with high-level trade negotiations in Madrid.
TikTok Deal Framework Reached
In a significant development, the Trump administration announced on September 16, 2025, that a “framework” agreement has been reached with China to allow TikTok to continue operating in the U.S. The deal, discussed during trade talks in Madrid, aims to divest TikTok from its Chinese owner, ByteDance, and shift it to U.S.-controlled ownership. The agreement includes measures like entrusted operation of U.S. user data and licensing of algorithms, with final approval expected from a conversation between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. This follows years of U.S. national security concerns and a bipartisan bill mandating ByteDance’s divestment.
Trade Talks in Madrid
High-level trade delegations from the U.S. and China, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, met in Madrid on September 14–15, 2025, to address escalating trade tensions. The talks focused on a looming November tariff deadline and the TikTok issue. A previous truce, struck in July, reduced tariffs from over 100% to 30% on Chinese goods and 10% on U.S. products, but tensions remain high. Trump has also pushed for 50–100% tariffs on China to pressure Russia in the Ukraine conflict, signaling a broader geopolitical strategy.
Anti-Dumping Probe into U.S. Chips
On September 13, 2025, China launched an anti-dumping investigation into U.S. analogue integrated circuit chips, targeting commodity interface and gate drive ICs. The probe, requested by Jiangsu’s semiconductor association, cites a 37% increase in import volume and a 52% price drop from 2022 to 2024, harming domestic industries. Additionally, China initiated an anti-discrimination investigation into U.S. handling of Chinese semiconductors, further escalating the tech trade war.
Military and Geopolitical Developments
South China Sea Patrols and Scarborough Shoal Dispute
China’s military conducted a “routine patrol” in the South China Sea on September 13–14, 2025, the second in less than two weeks, prompting tensions with the Philippines. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) warned Manila against “provocations” after Beijing announced plans to establish a national nature reserve at the contested Scarborough Shoal (Huangyan Island). The PLA accused the Philippines of undermining regional stability by involving external powers. This follows frequent Chinese patrols and criticism of U.S. and British warship transits through the Taiwan Strait, which China called “harassment and provocation.”
V-Day Military Parade Showcases Advanced Missiles
On September 3, 2025, China marked its Victory Day with a military parade in Tian’anmen Square, showcasing advanced weaponry, including DongFeng-5C liquid-fueled intercontinental nuclear missiles and hypersonic anti-ship missiles like YingJi-19, YingJi-17, and YingJi-20. The event, attended by President Xi Jinping, emphasized China’s military strength and national rejuvenation, with 80,000 doves and balloons released to symbolize peace.
Taiwan Strait Tensions
China accused the U.S. and Britain of undermining peace in the Taiwan Strait after their warships transited the waterway on September 13, 2025. The passage followed China’s advanced aircraft carrier Fujian sailing through the strait for exercises in the South China Sea. Beijing remains on “high alert” to safeguard its sovereignty, amid similar warnings after Australian and Canadian ships transited the strait.
Economic and Energy Moves
China Bypasses U.S. Sanctions on Russian LNG
China has begun importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia’s Arctic LNG 2 project, despite U.S. sanctions. On September 9, 2025, reports confirmed that the sanctioned tanker Arctic Mulan delivered LNG to Beihai port, with state-owned Cnooc redirecting shipments to avoid direct links to sanctioned cargo. A second tanker arrived shortly after, signaling regular shipments. Additionally, China is set to allow Russian energy firms like Rosatom and Gazprom to issue yuan-denominated “panda bonds,” marking their first access to China’s bond market in eight years. These moves underscore China’s strategic alignment with Russia amid Western sanctions.
Farmland Protection Framework
On September 10, 2025, China’s Minister of Natural Resources, Guan Zhiou, announced a strengthened framework for farmland protection, emphasizing quantity, quality, and ecological preservation. This reflects China’s focus on food security and sustainable land use amid global economic pressures.
Sports and Culture
Women’s Hockey Asia Cup Final
On September 14, 2025, China’s women’s hockey team defeated India 4-1 in the Asia Cup 2025 final at Gongshu Canal Sports Park Stadium, securing a spot in the 2026 FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup. China’s goals came from Zou Meirong (two), Chen Yang, and Tan Jinzhuang, while India’s Navneet Kaur scored early. The loss cost India direct World Cup qualification.
Xi Jinping’s Diplomatic Engagements
On September 2, 2025, President Xi called for deeper cooperation with Russia and Mongolia, emphasizing political trust and mutual benefits during a trilateral meeting. This aligns with China’s broader push to challenge Western influence, as noted in posts on X.
Controversies and Rebuttals
China Denies Misinformation Claims
On September 12, 2025, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian rejected claims by Utah Governor Spencer Cox that Chinese and Russian chatbots spread misinformation following the shooting of activist Charlie Kirk. Lin called the accusations baseless, accusing U.S. politicians of using China as a scapegoat.
Conclusion
China’s recent actions reflect its assertive stance on the global stage, from leveraging trade disputes to bolster its tech and economic position to flexing military muscle in contested regions. The Nvidia probe and TikTok deal highlight the complexities of U.S.-China relations, while South China Sea patrols and Russian energy ties underscore Beijing’s strategic maneuvering. Domestically, initiatives like farmland protection and cultural events like the V-Day parade reinforce national priorities. As trade talks and geopolitical tensions continue, China’s moves will remain critical to global stability and economic dynamics.
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