Trump's Tariffs vs. China's AI Pioneers: SCMP's Top 7 Insights

From struggling AI researchers in China to President Xi Jinping’s trip to Malaysia, these are some of the key stories covered recently by the South China Morning Post.

We've chosen seven stories from this week’s news in Hong Kong, mainland China, greater Asia, and further abroad that struck a chord with our audience and highlighted current concerns. Should you wish to read more of our coverage, we encourage you to consider subscribing .

1. Trump believes that China's discussions with Vietnam likely aim to undermine the US.

China's moves to strengthen economic relationships with Vietnam were probably aimed at undermining the U.S., according to American President Donald Trump. He made this comment on Monday as he talked about tariffs and potential waivers for cars and automotive components.

2. Chinese AI researchers sacrificing their lives in the quest for excellence

At the core of the U.S.-China technology rivalry lies artificial intelligence, with Chinese companies like DeepSeek vying against American leadership. Despite having an increasing number of skilled professionals and local achievements within China’s AI field, several key individuals in this vital area have passed away prematurely. These losses, resulting from mishaps or health issues, have sparked worries regarding the security and well-being of professionals working in this demanding sector.

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3. Amid the trade dispute initiated by President Trump, Hongkong Post will not accept parcels destined for the United States.

Hong Kong Post has decided to immediately cease accepting parcels destined for the United States via land and sea routes. The organization announced on Wednesday that they would begin reaching out to senders whose packages have not yet been dispatched, commencing April 22, to organize returns along with refunds. However, shipments consisting solely of documents will remain unaffected by this decision.

4. Questions persist five years after the death of Chinese scientist Nongjian Tao in the United States.

As per a report acquired by the Post from the university’s police department, Tao took his own life and was experiencing considerable job-related pressure prior to his passing. However, five years later, this situation remains unchanged. , Questions surrounding Tao's demise persist—particularly whether part of the strain he experienced could be attributed to potential investigations conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the globe’s premier biomedical research agency and principal sponsor of Tao's scientific funding.

5. Xi's Visit: Malaysia Stands With China Amid U.S. Tariff Threats, Says Anwar

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that Malaysia supports China on trade issues as both countries inked several agreements encompassing areas such as artificial intelligence, railway connectivity, and coconut exports during Chinese President Xi Jinping's trip to the Southeast Asian country.

6. "Fewer orders than usual": Shenzhen semiconductor dealers consider shutting down due to US tariff impacts

The bustling commercial streets around one of the world's largest electronics markets belie a secret inside its malls that illustrates how fast tariffs have hit China's semiconductor traders.

7. China names new trade envoy as US tariff dispute intensifies

On Wednesday, China named a new international trade negotiator at the Ministry of Commerce (Mofcom) during the ongoing intense trade dispute with the United States. Li Chenggang will take over from 59-year-old Wang Shouwen, who was involved in discussions for the 2020 agreement between the globe’s top two economic powers, as stated in an official announcement.

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