China’s economy grew more than expected in the first quarter of 2026
China’s GDP in the first quarter of 2026 increased by 5% year-on-year to 33.4 trillion yuan, marking a strong start to the 15th Five-Year Plan despite foreign experts’ forecasts. The success is attributed to Beijing’s efforts in planning the new energy sector and diversifying the energy supply system: the share of oil in the country’s total energy consumption is less than 20%.
India’s oil import spending could rise by 38% by the end of the year
India risks facing a colossal increase in oil import costs — according to Prabhudas Lilladher, additional expenses could reach $70 billion amid a record price surge due to the war in Iran and supply disruptions from the Middle East. India’s existing reserves are expected to last only until about the end of April.
Russia and China build a «hydrogen corridor» for freight transport
The holding company RT-Business Development (Rostec) has signed a memorandum with Chinese investors on the first hydrogen corridor between Russia and China. The project includes hydrogen production and a network of refueling stations along freight routes, as well as the possibility of creating a joint investment fund.
Flying car, smart glasses with built-in AI, humanoid robots as guides — China opens its largest trade exhibition
The 6th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) is underway in Haikou, Hainan Province, showcasing cutting-edge AI innovations ranging from smart glasses and exoskeletons to robot guides and robot dogs. More than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries are demonstrating high-tech products, and the expo has become the first major exhibition since the introduction of a special customs regime on Hainan Island.
