China's trade surplus reached $992 billion, marking a record high driven by pre-Trump export surge, while the yuan touched 7.33, prompting central bank intervention through increased foreign debt allowances. State media maintained synchronized coverage of Tibet earthquake response and Xi's meeting with Grenada's PM.
By midday, Pentagon's blacklisting of Tencent for military connections emerged alongside reports of Chinese military delegation planning Japan visit, marking shift in regional dynamics. Hong Kong developments included investigation of PORI pollster and extension of UK judge Hoffman's term.
Late afternoon coverage focused on new US GPU export restrictions targeting China while exempting allies, paralleling morning's revelation that Chinese chip imports now exceed oil imports. Central bank chief's statement on Hong Kong's role in foreign reserves management suggested strategic positioning amid economic uncertainties.