China

Peoples Daily | English | News | Jan. 15, 2025 | Climate Change

The average surface temperature of China's coastal waters hit a record high of 21.5°C in 2024, rising for the second consecutive year and exceeding the typical annual average by 1.16°C. Significant regional increases were noted, particularly in the Bohai Sea and northern Yellow Sea, which were 1.51°C above average. This rise in sea temperature is crucial as it impacts the exchange of heat and moisture with the atmosphere, subsequently affecting weather patterns.

Globally, sea surface temperatures also reached a record high of 20.87°C, marking 2024 as the warmest year for ocean waters in modern history. Key regions, including the Indian Ocean, North Atlantic, and Mediterranean Sea, reported record temperatures. Research from the Chinese Academy of Sciences highlighted the uneven nature of global warming, influenced by phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña.

Rising ocean temperatures are linked to an increase in extreme weather events, including droughts, typhoons, and floods. In 2024, 104 countries experienced record high temperatures, with significant impacts from droughts and wildfires. Notable events included catastrophic floods in Spain and multiple tropical cyclones in the southeastern United States, along with super typhoons in Hainan province, China.

Moreover, ocean warming contributes to rising global sea levels by one-third, increasing risks for coastal and low-lying areas due to land erosion. Scientists warn that without substantial climate change mitigation efforts, the frequency and costs associated with these disruptions will continue to escalate.

Global Times | English | News | Jan. 15, 2025 | South China Sea

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun addressed the Philippines' diplomatic protest regarding China's actions in the South China Sea, particularly involving the China Coast Guard vessel CCG 5901. He asserted that China's sovereignty and rights in the region are historically established and in line with international law, criticizing the Philippines for its accusations as a distortion of legal positions influenced by perception of Chinese law enforcement.

Li Kaisheng from the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies suggested that the Philippines' stance highlights a long-term distortion of legal contexts and an expectation of unwavering U.S. support. Yang Xiao of the Institute of Maritime Strategy Studies noted that the Philippine leadership appears intent on maintaining tensions to secure favorable U.S. policy decisions.

Additionally, Yang highlighted that U.S. President Joe Biden recently commended Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his diplomatic approach regarding the situation during a tripartite call with Japan. However, Li cautioned that U.S. foreign policy is heavily shaped by the current president's perspective, indicating that Marcos Jr. may not achieve his goals as the Biden administration approaches its conclusion.

（经济观察）迎自贸港封关运作 海南各地快马加鞭拼开放

China Daily | Local Language | News | Jan. 15, 2025 | UndeterminedTrade Issues and Numbers

Hainan is accelerating its development as the Free Trade Port is set to launch by 2025. Recent government reports during the Hainan Municipal and County Two Sessions underscored the importance of enhancing international openness. Haikou City plans to adopt international trade standards, implement a negative list for cross-border services, and increase cross-border data usage. Sanya City will focus on improving data flow and advancing open policy pilot projects in retail and professional services.

Danzhou City, earmarked as a model for the Free Trade Port, will introduce liberalization measures and innovations in cross-border e-commerce, especially for pharmaceutical imports. Cities across Hainan are leveraging their unique attributes to promote reforms that bolster foreign investment, trade, and tourism. Initiatives include establishing a whitelist for foreign trade enterprises in Haikou and visa-free policies in Sanya to attract foreign talent and tourists.

Hainan is transitioning from a factor-based trade model to one that promotes investment and trade through institutional frameworks. The province is focusing on sectors like healthcare, education, digital trade, and finance while seeking deeper collaboration with Belt and Road Initiative countries, particularly in Southeast Asia. Strategic parks across Hainan are key to this process and will serve as proving grounds for advanced trade practices by 2025.

The Haikou Jiangdong New District is set to become a hub for international modern services, expecting significant growth in import-export and offshore trade activities. Proposed initiatives include open policies for financial services and support for international businesses. As the Free Trade Port prepares for closed-border operations, Hainan aims to enhance regulatory compatibility, protect property rights, and contribute to international service trade standards. Key leaders emphasize innovation and a trial-and-error approach to successfully attract investments.