What happened

President Xi Jinping congratulated new UK PM Burnham in a phone call, stressing mutual respect and cooperation despite differences, and highlighted potential in education, healthcare, and finance.

The State Council held a session on high-quality urban renewal, emphasizing disaster resilience and upgrading infrastructure standards in key cities.

Six departments launched a campaign to expand basic medical insurance coverage for flexible workers, aiming to boost participation over three years and remove hukou limits in megacities.

Saudi Arabia reported Houthi attacks on energy facilities, spiking oil prices and boosting energy chemical futures.

Apple may sign a long-term NAND flash supply agreement, shifting pricing power in memory chips.

Zimbabwe banned exports of antimony and tungsten to encourage local processing.

A national consumer goods industry conference in Shijiazhuang outlined plans for AI-driven initiatives and sector policies.

SAIC's IM brand teased a driverless car without a steering wheel, based on tech for the new LS6, set for pre-sale on Sept 10.

Why it matters

These developments signal China's push for balanced growth, from diplomatic engagement to urban safety and social security expansion.

Global supply chain shifts, like Apple's NAND deal and Zimbabwe's export ban, could impact tech and commodity markets.

China's focus on AI and 6G, alongside consumer industry upgrades, points to future economic drivers.

Key facts

Xi Jinping and UK PM Burnham discussed cooperation in education, healthcare, and finance.

China plans to expand medical insurance for flexible workers over three years.

Saudi energy facilities were attacked by Houthi rebels, disrupting operations.

Apple may sign a 3-5 year NAND supply agreement with no price cap.

Zimbabwe banned exports of antimony and tungsten immediately.

IM's test vehicle can start, steer, and avoid pedestrians without a steering wheel.

What to watch next

Watch for further details on China's urban renewal plans and infrastructure standards.

Monitor oil price movements and global energy security amid Middle East tensions.

See how Apple's NAND deal affects memory chip pricing and competition.

Track progress of China's 6G commercialization and AI integration in consumer goods.

Sources