Former Premier Zhu Rongji, a central figure in China's market-oriented economic reforms, financial restructuring, and WTO accession, passed away in Beijing at age 98. An official joint obituary praised his pivotal leadership during key macroeconomic overhauls and the development of Shanghai's Pudong district.

The People's Bank of China reaffirmed its moderately loose monetary policy stance while expanding price-based controls to mitigate imported inflation risks. Central bank structural tools reached 4.6 trillion yuan, directing credit away from real estate into high-tech, digital economy, and private enterprise re-lending.

Driven by robust overseas demand for new energy vehicles, Chinese auto exports reached 1.043 million units in July, up 81.3% year-on-year. Strong export performance continues to offset seasonal softness in domestic vehicle sales, backed by integrated supply chains and technological iteration.

China delivered over 1.9 trillion yuan in tax cuts and refunds during the first half of 2026 to foster high-tech innovation and industrial upgrading. Tax invoice data shows dramatic revenue expansion in emerging sectors, led by smart vehicle equipment, commercial drones, and robotics.

The PLA Navy's 49th escort task force, featuring the guided-missile destroyer Kunming, departed Sanya to assume counter-piracy duties off the coast of Somalia. The mission marks the first overseas escort deployment for the Kunming, underscoring China's ongoing commitment to maritime sea-line security.