From smaller US-China AI gap to crawfish soup on Mars, here are highlights from our overseas correspondents in the second half of July 2026
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On June 24, the United States imposed a fresh wave of tariffs against 60 economies, including China, Japan, South Korea, India and European Union member states, hours before a temporary 10 per cent blanket levy was due to expire.
2. As US-Chinese AI model gap narrows, what next for Washington?
In June, the US’ AI lead over China seemingly shrank from months to weeks following the arrival of new Chinese models from Moonshot AI and Alibaba Group Holding – to the surprise of many in Washington.
3. Asian-American groups fear Trump’s escalating rhetoric will fuel racism in US
Asian-American groups slammed a speech by US President Donald Trump as a dangerous threat to citizens of US minority communities that are already facing attacks and hostility during troubled and deeply partisan times, even as China hawks praised its message and tone.