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Sunday, October 18, 2026English edition
The Geopolitician

Country risk, from the local press

China · Country watch

Hydrogen Expansion, Thai Travel Alert, Energy Probe

China expands hydrogen pilots, warns citizens in Thailand, and investigates former energy board member.

The picture Stable

Business conditions in China remain stable with new hydrogen pilots and a travel alert for Thailand. Energy sector governance faces scrutiny.

In this briefing Government of China · Embassy of China in Thailand · Chen Yajie · Jizhong Energy Group · Hebei Provincial Commission for Discipline Inspection and Supervision

Regulation

  • Energy
  • Public sector

China to expand hydrogen use through city cluster pilots

a city skyline with tall buildings and skyscrapers
Howen / Unsplash

China will expand its hydrogen use through pilot programs in five city clusters, according to CGTN China. The initiative aims to boost the country's clean energy capabilities and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The pilot programs will focus on developing hydrogen infrastructure and technology, supporting the government's long-term strategy for energy transition.

Impact Energy companies and public-sector planners will engage in hydrogen infrastructure and technology development.

Sources: CGTN China ↗

Disruption

Nothing significant reported today.

Internal tension

Nothing significant reported today.

Safety & health

  • Tourism

China issues travel alert for Thailand over kidnappings

China's embassy in Thailand has issued a travel alert following a series of kidnappings targeting Chinese nationals, according to ChinaMorningPost. The embassy advises citizens to plan trips carefully and pay attention to transport security. Influencers and artists are also warned about high-paying job scams. This alert highlights ongoing security concerns for Chinese travelers in Thailand.

Impact Chinese tourists and expatriates in Thailand face increased travel and security risks.

Sources: ChinaMorningPost ↗

Companies

  • Energy

Chen Yajie under investigation for serious violations

Chen Yajie, former board director of Jizhong Energy Group, is under investigation for serious disciplinary violations, according to ChinaNews.com. The Hebei Provincial Commission for Discipline Inspection and Supervision is conducting the investigation. Chen previously held roles as party secretary and chairman of Fengfeng Group Co., Ltd.

Impact Jizhong Energy Group faces scrutiny, affecting its governance and operations.

Sources: ChinaNews.com ↗

Markets

Nothing significant reported today.

Trade

Nothing significant reported today.

Politics

Nothing significant reported today.

Also today in China

Sources in this briefing

Sources: each headline links to the original article on the publisher's site.

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