U.S.-China Trade War Escalation: China announced export controls on 10 U.S. military-related entities and a government procurement ban on 46 U.S. firms, framing both as retaliation for Washington’s expanded “Chinese military companies” list. Taiwan Security Drills: Taiwan launched a five-day combat readiness exercise aimed at rapid wartime transition amid rising gray-zone pressure. EV Boom vs. Charging Gap: After Iran-war disruptions pushed oil prices higher, Chinese EV exports surged and sales rose, but charging infrastructure still lags in many importing markets. AI Goes Mainstream in Beijing: The Beijing International Book Fair highlighted AI tools for cultural content, while Tencent tested an AI assistant inside WeChat. Rare Earth and Chip Supply Strain: New U.S. rare-earth and dual-use restrictions drew fresh Chinese countermeasures, while Japanese chip-equipment makers reported falling China sales as Beijing pushes homegrown production. Regional Politics in the Pacific: Solomon Islands’ senior minister said China-linked policing and security cooperation should be sidelined as the country seeks a “rebalancing” with partners. Energy and Trade Routes: Analysts warned China’s oil refining and imports may face lasting damage from Iran-war supply shocks, and attention also turned to chokepoints like Malacca and the Kyaukphyu pipeline. China-Myanmar Backdrop: Xi met Myanmar’s junta leader, giving political endorsement even as analysts warn the regime could feel emboldened to intensify its military approach.