For China, rising tides lift all boats

In China, when you look out on a seemingly unspoiled vista, it can be easy to forget that the landscape you're admiring may in fact have been inhabited for centuries.

IN BRIEF (Page 4)

Homework load adds to kids' strain

In its first report on the quality of China's nine-year compulsory education, the Ministry of Education has found that primary and middle school students are under great academic pressure, with many spending hours each day on homework.

Reclamation projects to face tough hurdles

China will approve no more land reclamation projects unless they pertain to key national strategies, according to a circular released by the State Council on Wednesday.

Airlines' Taiwan listing change 'positive'

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that the move by the three biggest US airlines to change how they refer to Taiwan on their booking websites was a "positive development".

Consumers clamor for classic popsicles

One of China's oldest ice cream brands, Bright, refused to increase the price of its signature saltwater and green bean popsicles, saying consumer concerns - that the product is not competitive with foreign brands and is increasingly hard to find - are misplaced.

Free hukou fails to seal the deal in talent search

As competition to attract talent has intensified between major cities in recent years, many have unveiled packages to lure ambitious young people. However, permanent household registration, one of the key incentives offered by many cities, appears to be losing its appeal.

Tianjin initiative illustrates difficulty of attracting suitable applicants

On May 16, the Tianjin government announced that people age 40 or younger with bachelor's degrees would be allowed to register for hukou in the city without having a job or owning property. The move was part of a drive to attract more young people to the northern port municipality.

Premier backs world trade order

Premier Li Keqiang called on Japan to work with China in safeguarding multilateralism and free trade, as the countries are confronted by rising trade protectionism and anti-globalization sentiment.

Lax rules keep train smokers puffing along

Nearly 90 percent of Chinese railways are subject to anti-smoking regulations, but enforcement remains poor, particularly on slower services, according to new research.

Hebei province sets rigorous standards for glass walkways

A technical standard for glass walkways at scenic spots has recently been released in Hebei province to better ensure the safety of tourists.

Yangtze porpoise nears extinction; protections urged

The Yangtze finless porpoise remains in extreme danger of extinction despite intensified efforts in recent years to protect the rare species, which is endemic to China's longest river, according to the most recent national survey.