US-China Tech Clash: China’s commerce ministry hit back at the Pentagon’s updated “military companies” blacklist, warning it will retaliate if Chinese firms aren’t treated fairly, after Alibaba, Baidu, BYD and others were added. Taiwan-US Outreach: Taiwan’s KMT opposition leader Cheng Li-wun said her US trip aimed to clear “misunderstandings” about her China stance, as Washington hawks criticized Taiwan’s expanded defense spending. China Economy Credit Signals: China’s May loan growth slowed, with lending skewing toward short-term bills while household and long-term business loans kept slipping—analysts say more stimulus may be needed. AI Infrastructure Race: Bloomberg reports Beijing plans about 2 trillion yuan ($295bn) over five years for a nationwide AI data-center network, relying heavily on domestic tech. Markets & Risk Mood: The Shanghai Composite eked out a first weekly gain in a month as Asian sentiment improved on hopes around US-Iran de-escalation, though volatility remains tied to demand and policy uncertainty. Trade & Supply Chains: A World Bank-linked index finds Chinese ports dominate global efficiency, with automation and investment helping them absorb geopolitical shocks. Energy Shock Watch: A World Bank analysis warns the US-Iran conflict could drag global growth and keep energy, shipping and commodity disruptions lingering into 2027. Security & Fraud: Google sued a China-based scam network accused of using Gemini AI to automate phishing and mass scam texts. Cross-border Food Trade: Japan warned that saplings of its new citrus hybrid “Beni Princess” appeared for sale in China, raising concerns over unauthorized plant exports. Tourism Demand: WTTC data says inbound travel is powering China’s tourism expansion, with international arrivals and spending rising strongly.