In Brief
INTERNAL
CPC expels 33 members; Notes toughening stance on internal party discipline
On 30 October, Reuters reported that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) expelled 33 members during the fifth plenum. The new report confirms the expulsion of the former second-in-command in the military and former party secretary for Xinjiang. The conclave recorded a high absence rate, with 25 per cent of the seats remaining vacant. King's College London's Lau China Institute Director said, "The main messaging for the party to its domestic and external audiences is that it must be unified." This is part of President's larger programme of uprooting corruption from the system. Soon after coming to power in 2012, he said, "If corruption is allowed to worsen unchecked, it will ultimately lead to the total collapse of the party and the ​state." The news also reported on replacing these positions with young cadres. The communique stated that the plenum discussed the need to improve the quality of training and select outstanding young cadres.
("China's Communist Party conclave on toughening discipline sees record expulsions, absences," Reuters, 30 October 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/chinas-communist-party-conclave-sees-record-low-attendance-surprise-politburo-2026-10-29/ 
 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
AI model demonstrates capabilities to execute cyberattacks in controlled security tests
On 29 October, Reuters reported that Chinese artificial intelligence company Z.AI’s flagship GLM-5.3 model demonstrated the ability to carry out sophisticated cyberattacks during controlled simulations conducted by AI security research firm Irregular. The model successfully completed three out of 13 multi-stage cyberattack scenarios at least once, marking the strongest performance recorded by Irregular from an openly available AI model. During the simulations, GLM-5.3 gained access to protected services, established alternative connections to navigate computer networks and coordinated operations across multiple machines. However, it continued to trail leading US models, with OpenAI’s GPT-6 Astra completing nine out of 10 scenarios in a separate assessment. Researchers also found that GLM-5.3 repeatedly ignored explicit instructions by reproducing computer code from memory, a behaviour described as reward hacking. The findings raised concerns that open-weight AI models, which can be downloaded, modified and operated independently, could make sophisticated cyberattacks more accessible. Researchers stressed the importance of stronger safeguards, improved monitoring and rigorous safety evaluations to address potential misuse.
("Chinese AI model carries out complex cyberattacks in controlled tests, researchers say," Reuters, 29 October 2026)
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CHINA AND SPACE
US military releases satellite image showing China's secretive Shenlong space plane docked with another spacecraft
On 28 October, Space.com reported that the US military had released a rare, high-resolution satellite photograph of China's secretive reusable Shenlong space plane, showing it docked with another unidentified spacecraft in orbit. The image was captured on 28 May 2024 by Vantor's WorldView-3 satellite from approximately 90 kilometres away, with a resolution of 4.5 centimetres per pixel. It provides a detailed view of the spacecraft's open payload bay doors and the attached satellite's deployed solar panels. The photograph was included in a report by the US Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) assessing emerging threats and developments in space. Although China has described Shenlong as an experimental platform designed to develop technologies for more affordable and reusable space transportation, its actual capabilities and mission objectives remain largely classified. Previous observations have indicated that the spacecraft has released unidentified objects into orbit, potentially conducting satellite deployment and proximity operations. The latest disclosure comes amid growing strategic and technological competition between China and the United States, which also operates the classified X-37B robotic space plane. 
("China's secretive space plane caught on camera in incredible new photo released by US military," Space.com, 28 October 2026)
https://share.google/SyUyZLiH1qrgnbpBg

DEFENCE
China’s fourth aircraft carrier could launch next year
On October 29, SCMP reported that new satellite images indicate China’s fourth aircraft carrier, known as the Type 004, could be launched as early as 2027. The US-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies said the ship’s construction at Dalian Shipyard appears to be at a stage similar to that of the Fujian in May 2021, roughly a year before it was launched. Analysts say a launch next year would coincide with the centenary of the People’s Liberation Army. The Type 004 is widely believed to be China’s first nuclear-powered carrier, though Beijing has not confirmed its propulsion system or construction timetable. The estimate remains uncertain. The new carrier’s larger size and potentially more complex propulsion system could affect the schedule, and analysts say unforeseen construction issues may cause delays. Launching the ship would mark a major step in construction, but it would still need further work and testing before entering service.
(“New images suggest China’s fourth aircraft carrier could launch in 2027, analysts say,” SCMP, 29 October 2026)
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3372578/new-images-suggest-chinas-fourth-aircraft-carrier-could-launch-2027-analysts-say

China deploys more than 50 vessels in western Pacific
On October 29, The Times of India reported that Taiwan had tracked 53 Chinese vessels across the western Pacific, including 34 navy warships and the aircraft carrier Liaoning. The vessels were spread across strategic waters near Taiwan, Japan and the Philippines, prompting concern among the three countries. Taiwan National Security Council secretary-general Joseph Wu said the simultaneous activity posed an “obvious” threat and that Taiwan was staying vigilant. The Liaoning and its accompanying group were east of the Philippines, while other formations operated near Taiwan’s eastern and southeastern coasts and off southern Japan. China’s defence ministry said the Liaoning group entered the western Pacific on October 14 for routine annual training to test combat readiness. It said the drills complied with international law and were not aimed at any specific country. Japan’s defence ministry separately reported tracking Chinese vessels through the Osumi Strait, off southwestern Japan, on Tuesday.
(“China deploys over 50 vessels in western Pacific, raising alarm in Taiwan, Japan & the Philippines,” The Times of India, 29 October 2026)
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/defence/international/china-deploys-over-50-vessels-in-western-pacific-raising-alarm-in-taiwan-japan-the-philippines/amp_articleshow/135301675.cms

CHINA AND EAST ASIA
Mongolia’s copper exports plunge as Chinese border curbs slow trucks
On 29 October, AP News reported that Oyu Tolgoi LLC, operator of one of the world's largest copper mines, said its copper concentrate exports to China had dropped by about 70 per cent over the past two weeks due to restrictions at a border crossing. Truck convoys crossing at China's Ganqimaodu Border Port fell from the usual 12 to 13 a day to around four, with local media estimating a loss of about USD 300 million, potentially reaching USD 1.2 billion if restrictions last through year-end. Mongolian border officials linked the slowdown to infrastructure and technology upgrades, including an in-vehicle facial recognition system introduced in August, which the Chinese embassy said could continue until the end of December. Coal exports through the Gashuunsukhait crossing were also affected, with daily vehicle crossings falling from 1,300 to just over 1,000. Mongolia sent 89.4 per cent of its exports to China last year, with coal and copper concentrates accounting for 82.3 per cent of merchandise exports.
("Mongolian mining company says copper exports have dropped due to China border restrictions," AP News, 29 October 2026)
https://apnews.com/article/mongolia-china-border-crossing-minerals-copper-49518b3258a0265253483a4c3a98a28e

Beijing-Tokyo route airlines to cut nearly 700,000 seats amid political thaw, reports SCMP
On 29 October, SCMP reported that airlines will cut nearly 700,000 seats and more than 5,000 flights from China-Japan routes in the coming winter season, according to aviation data provider OAG, as a nearly year-old political dispute continues to depress tourism. Carriers allocated 2,871,270 seats for the season running from 25 October to 27 March, down from 3,554,167 a year earlier, with Chinese airlines cutting back the most; China Eastern shed 111,260 seats, China Southern 82,575 and Air China 60,898. Japanese carriers made only negligible changes, with All Nippon Airways retaining all 1,848 flights. Mass cancellations began in November 2025 after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested Tokyo could deploy military forces in a Taiwan Strait conflict, prompting Beijing to issue a travel warning. Analyst Yoichiro Sato said airfares would likely rise, increasing costs for Japanese technicians serving Chinese users of Japan-built equipment.
("China-Japan flights to drop nearly 700,000 seats amid political spat," SCMP, 29 October 2026)
https://amp.scmp.com/economy/article/3372534/china-japan-flights-drop-nearly-700000-seats-amid-political-spat

CHINA AND SOUTHEAST ASIA
China accuses Filipino politician of obstructing its participation at ASEAN defence meet, reports The Straits Times
On 29 October, The Straits Times reported that tensions between China and the Philippines resurfaced at the end of a two-day ASEAN defence meeting, with Beijing accusing an unnamed Filipino politician of obstructing its participation. China’s spokesman stated that the actions ran counter to the meeting’s inclusive spirit, violated diplomatic norms, and undermined China’s rights as a dialogue partner. China was represented at the meeting by a military attaché in the absence of Defence Minister Dong Jun, who is attending a key Chinese Communist Party meeting. Philippine Defence Secretary and Chair of the session, Gilberto Teodoro, said Beijing was given the opportunity to present its views and stated that no other member had such complaints. Manila stated that it had allowed the exchange of views to be robust. Relations between Manila and Beijing have soured over the South China Sea disputes and Chinese sanctions imposed on Teodoro. Teodoro also defended Manila’s growing network of regional partnerships and rejected claims that they undermined regional stability, instead stating that the Philippines faced unilateral and maritime claims made by China over its maritime domain.
(“China cries foul as tensions with Manila flare at ASEAN defence talks,” The Straits Times, 29 October 2026)
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/philippines-china-tensions-resurface-at-the-close-of-asean-defence-gathering

CHINA AND AFRICA
Chinese and African universities to improve cooperation on green energy and tech
On 29 October, The Star reported that Chinese and African universities had expanded cooperation in green energy research, technology development, and scientific training following a three-day scientific forum. The China-Africa Green Energy Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Forum and Talented Young Scientist Program Forum were jointly hosted by the China Association for International Exchange of Personnel and Shandong Jianzhu University, with representatives from over 70 universities and research institutions. Green energy and related areas were among the priorities of the forum, with topics such as green and low-carbon fuels and AI-enabled energy systems focused upon. Shandong signed a memorandum of understanding with five African institutions, aiming to promote joint research, academic exchanges, researcher mobility and scientific talent development. The forum allowed researchers to explore opportunities for further cooperation in areas of shared interest. Additionally, the development of scientific talent was focused upon. Seven early-career researchers from countries like South Africa and Egypt presented their research experiences, with the overarching focus on the development of international cooperation.
(“China- Africa green energy forum opens new research, investment opportunities,” The Star, 29 October 2026)
https://www.the-star.co.ke/climate-change/2026-10-29-china-africa-green-energy-forum-opens-new-investment-opportunities

CHINA AND EUROPE
China set to sign trade deal that allows high degree market access to Switzerland
On 30 October, The Straits Times reported that China and Switzerland were set to sign an upgraded trade accord this week, in a move away from protectionism. Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to meet Swiss President Guy Parmelin for the signing of the deal, which was agreed upon in August.  The deal is expected to provide Switzerland a high degree of market access to China, with 99.8 per cent of Swiss exports being duty-free. The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs informed that the new deal tackled imbalances in the initial accord between the two countries and expanded market access. It was noted by the Secretariat that the deal did not provide any new tariff benefits for Chinese industrial goods. The Chinese foreign ministry expressed its view that the new deal would provide more stable, transparent and predictable institutional safeguards for the long-term development of Chinese and Swiss enterprises. It further stated that only the process of development could resolve existing imbalances in economic globalisation. The deal comes after Switzerland was imposed with a tariff of 39 per cent by the US last year. However, the Swiss government stated the deal with China would not affect bilateral goods trade with the EU, US or other partners.
(“China trade accord with Swiss bucks wider trend towards protectionism,” The Straits Times, 30 October 2026)
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/china-trade-accord-with-swiss-bucks-wider-trend-towards-protectionism

China opposes proposed EU trade safeguards as violation of WTO rules
On 29 October, SCMP reported that the Chinese government had expressed its opposition to new trade safeguards targeting Chinese exports proposed by the EU. The spokeswoman for the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, Huang Ling, informed that artificially restricting normal trade potentially violated World Trade Organisation rules. She further stated this would increase inflation in the EU, undermine the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains and increase the burden on downstream industries. Huang also informed that China wished to promote the “upwards balance” of China-EU trade, referring to the negotiated cap on hybrid vehicle imports focused on gradual growth in trade. The remarks come amidst speculation that the EU will announce safeguards like import quotas and tariffs to curb Chinese imports into the bloc. However, China- EU trade talks are still ongoing. Huang stated the continuing talks were an indication that dialogue could be used to resolve economic and trade disputes. 
(“China slams EU’s potential new trade safeguards, says they may violate WTO rules,” SCMP, 29 October 2026)
https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3372612/china-slams-eus-potential-new-trade-safeguards-says-they-may-violate-wto-rules