Gaokao: A Coming-of-Age Ceremony Focused on Growth

In this episode of Gaokao: A Coming-of-Age Ceremony Focused on Growth, we take a deep dive into the ongoing reforms of China’s national college entrance exam—the Gaokao—set for June 7 to 10, 2025. Based on detailed source materials, we examine how the exam is evolving in both structure and philosophy.We explore the nationwide rollout of the “3+1+2” subject selection model, which offers students more flexibility and autonomy in choosing subjects that match their strengths and interests. Alongside this, we discuss changes in assessment standards, with growing emphasis on higher-order thinking, critical problem-solving, and real-life application of knowledge—shifting away from rote learning.A major focus of the episode is also the increasing role of AI technology in exam supervision. From real-time facial recognition to behavioral monitoring and environmental control, AI is becoming central to how fairness, security, and efficiency are ensured in exam halls across China. The episode also considers concerns raised in the source material, including algorithmic bias, misjudgment risks, and data privacy. By bringing together structural reform and technological transformation, the 2025 Gaokao reflects a broader effort to modernize education while still grappling with questions of equity, student well-being, and the true purpose of assessment.Enjoy this episode, and take a moment to reflect on what it means to learn, and to be tested—not just on paper, but in life.

As of Friday morning, the Tianwen-2 probe had been operating smoothly in orbit for over eight days, reaching a distance of more than 3 million kilometers from Earth, according to the China National Space Administration (CNSA) Friday.中国国家航天局在周五早上表示，截至当天上午，天问二号探测器已在轨平稳运行逾8天，距地球超过300万公里。The CNSA also released an image captured by the probe, showing one unfolded solar panel.该局同时公布了探测器拍摄的太阳翼展开实拍图像。China launched its first asteroid sample-return mission, Tianwen-2, on May 29, an endeavour to shed light on the formation and evolution of asteroids and the early solar system.我国于5月29日发射首个行星采样返回任务“天问二号”，旨在揭示小行星及太阳系早期的形成演化机制。The Tianwen-2 mission aims to achieve multiple goals over a decade-long expedition: collecting samples from the near-Earth asteroid 2016HO3 and exploring the main-belt comet 311P, which is more distant than Mars.本次任务计划通过为期十年的深空探测实现多个目标：采集近地小行星2016HO3的样本，并探索比火星更遥远的主带彗星311P。To meet the power demands during the deep-space voyage, the Tianwen-2 probe is equipped with circular, flexible solar panels.  为满足深空航行中的能源需求，天问二号探测器配备了圆形柔性太阳翼。the Tianwen-2 probe天问二号探测器the China National Space Administration中国国家航天局asteroidn.小行星expeditionn.探险（队）；远征；短途旅行sample/ˈsɑːmpl/n.样品；样本

Beijing, which aims to become a premier destination for global travelers, has rolled out a comprehensive plan to improve its inbound tourism services, as the number of overseas visitors to the Chinese capital continues to surge.随着海外赴京游客数量持续增长，北京——这座致力于打造全球旅行者首选目的地的城市，推出系统性方案提升入境游服务水平，并着力完善入境旅游服务体系。The city government announced the plan on Tuesday at the Beijing Inbound Tourism Development Conference, outlining 22 measures that mainly focus on four areas — products, promotion, services and support.北京市政府于周二在北京入境旅游发展大会上宣布了该计划，该计划概述了22项主要聚焦于产品、宣传、服务和保障这四大领域的措施。"Beijing's inbound tourism is surging, reflected by soaring visitor numbers and higher spending," said Sima Hong, vice-mayor of Beijing, adding that the city is working on collaborating with global partners to ignite the "Beijing Travel" wave, offering tourists more open, convenient and captivating experiences.北京市副市长司马红表示：“北京入境旅游呈现强劲增长，游客数量与消费支出显著攀升”，并强调该市正积极与全球合作伙伴协作，掀起“北京旅游”的热潮，为游客提供更开放、便捷且富有魅力的旅游体验。According to the conference, from January to April, the city welcomed a total of 1.46 million inbound tourists, up 57.1 percent year-on-year. Tourism expenditure reached $1.9 billion, a year-on-year increase of 55 percent.大会数据显示，今年1月至4月，北京市累计接待入境游客146万人次，同比增长57.1%。旅游消费达19亿美元，同比增长55%。Beijing will continue to enrich and improve its tourism products, such as cycling along the Beijing Central Axis route, as well as other special experiences in Beijing's hutong and suburban areas.北京将持续丰富和完善旅游产品体系，包括北京中轴线骑行等特色体验以及胡同、京郊地区深度游项目。At the conference, 10 new themed routes were introduced under the "Beijing's New Discoveries" banner, including culinary quests, intangible heritage experiences and night cruises, to cater to diverse tourist preferences.大会发布了10条“北京新发现”主题旅游线路，涵盖美食寻味、非遗体验、夜游京城等多样化主题。With more overseas visitors coming to Beijing, their luggage needs are growing as their appetite for shopping increases.随着入境的海外游客日益增多，其购物热情持续高涨，行李量也在同步攀升。Zhang Kexiong, assistant general manager of China Tourism Group, said: "In the past, Chinese silk, tea, calligraphy and traditional paintings were highly appealing to foreign tourists. Now, with the development of Chinese technology, electronic products are also gaining popularity, such as drones, smartphones and headphones."中国旅游集团总经理助理张克雄表示：“丝绸、茶叶、书画等传统商品一直备受外国游客青睐，如今中国科技产品如无人机、智能手机、耳机等也日渐走俏。”To offer better consumption services, the government has improved tax refund policies and enabled more foreign bank cards to be used for tap-and-go subway access. Meanwhile, the city has expanded and optimized international flight networks and improved entry processes with dedicated zones for temporary entry permits.为优化消费服务，市政府升级了离境退税政策并扩展外卡支付场景，实现地铁“一拍即付”功能，同时加密国际航线网络，设立临时入境许可专用通道提升通关效率。China World Mall, one of the popular consumption spots in the city, has officially been approved by the Beijing Taxation Bureau to become one of the first three centralized Instant Tax Refund Service locations in Beijing, offering refund services covering all of the city.北京国贸商城作为市内热门消费场所，近日正式获北京市税务局批准，成为全市首批三家离境退税“即买即退”集中退付点之一，其退税服务范围覆盖全市。Cui Peng, manager of the mall's operations department, said: "Our mall features over 100 tax refund-eligible stores, offering a wide range of products including luxury goods, local fashion brands and handicrafts. Visitors meeting the tax refund criteria can receive an immediate refund of up to 9 percent on purchases starting from just 200 yuan ($28), with a maximum on-site refund of 20,000 yuan."商城运营部经理崔鹏（Cui Peng）介绍：“商场内超百家商户支持离境退税，涵盖奢侈品牌、本土潮牌及手工艺品。单笔消费满200元（约28美元）即可享受最高9%的即时退税，单笔现场退税额上限2万元。”Preceding the conference, more than 270 travel agents from over 40 countries and regions participated in a 48-hour tour, from June 1 to 2, to evaluate traditional and emerging attractions, like watching dragon boat racing at Yanqi Lake and visiting Pop Land, the first IP theme park of China's trendy toy maker Pop Mart.会前预热活动中，来自40余国270余名旅行商于6月1日至2日展开48小时深度考察，实地体验雁栖湖龙舟竞渡、潮玩品牌泡泡玛特旗下首座IP主题乐园“泡泡玛特城市公园”等传统与新兴文旅景点。surge/sɜːdʒ/vi. 激增；急剧上升China World Mall国贸商城tax refund退税the Beijing Central Axis北京中轴线tap-and-go一拍即付inbound tourism入境游

China's national college entrance exam, known as the gaokao, will take place from Saturday to Tuesday and feature several new developments, including the rollout of exam reforms in eight additional provinces, expanded university enrollment and the launch of new academic majors.中国的全国大学入学考试，即高考，将于周六至下周二举行，并将呈现多项新举措，包括在另外八个省份推行考试改革、扩大高校招生规模以及开设新专业。This year, eight more provincial-level regions will implement the gaokao reform: Sichuan, Henan, Shanxi, Yunnan, Shaanxi, Qinghai and the Ningxia Hui and Inner Mongolia autonomous regions. So far, 29 provinces have adopted the new gaokao mechanism.今年，又有八个省级地区将启动高考改革，其中包括：四川、河南、山西、云南、陕西、青海以及宁夏回族自治区和内蒙古自治区。截至目前，已有29个省份采用了新的高考机制。Under the reform, candidates must take three nationally standardized subjects — Chinese, mathematics and a foreign language — along with one primary elective subject, either physics or history, and two additional electives selected from chemistry, geography, political science and biology.根据新的改革方案，考生必须参加三门全国统一高考科目——语文、数学和一门外语——外加一门首选科目（物理或历史），以及从化学、地理、政治和生物中选出的两门再选科目。Xiong Bingqi, director of the 21st Century Education Research Institute, said the reform, launched in 2014, has provided students with greater flexibility in subject selection and aims to place more emphasis on students' individuality and personal interests while establishing a more comprehensive and multi-dimensional evaluation system.21世纪教育研究院院长熊丙奇表示，这项于2014年启动的改革为学生提供了更大的学科选择灵活性，旨在更注重学生的个体特质和个人兴趣，同时致力于建立一个更为综合性、多维度的评价体系。"However, the issue of solely relying on test scores persists. It is necessary to strengthen the reform of comprehensive quality evaluation," Xiong said.“然而，唯分数论问题依然存在。目前还是有必要加强综合素质评价的改革。”熊丙奇表示。Many universities have expanded enrollment plans this year, including Tsinghua University, Peking University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University. The additional spots, ranging from dozens to several hundred, are primarily concentrated in fundamental disciplines such as mathematics, physics and chemistry, as well as in strategic and cutting-edge fields.许多大学今年扩大了招生计划，包括清华大学、北京大学和上海交通大学。其新增名额从几十个到数百个不等，主要集中在数学、物理、化学等基础学科，以及战略性和前沿领域。Xi'an Jiaotong University in Shaanxi province has been expanding its enrollment over the past decade and plans to add 200 more spots this year, according to Cao Liangzhi, director of the university's admissions office.据西安交通大学招生办公室主任曹良志介绍，该校在过去十年一直在扩大招生规模，今年计划再增加200个招生名额。"The focus is primarily on emerging technology industries and fields geared toward the future," Cao said. "In response to technological and industrial transformation and upgrading, we aim to cultivate more high-quality talent."曹主任表示：“扩招的重点主要集中在新兴科技产业和面向未来的领域。为了应对科技与产业转型升级，我们旨在培养更多高素质人才。”This year, China's college admissions introduced 29 new undergraduate majors across fields such as artificial intelligence, carbon neutrality and digital governance.今年，中国高校招生新增了29个本科专业，涵盖人工智能、碳中和、数字治理等领域。According to the Ministry of Education, these new programs are designed to align with national strategic priorities, market demands and technological advancements.教育部表示，这些新专业的设置旨在对接国家战略所需、满足市场需求并适应科技发展。Beijing Jiaotong University has added five undergraduate majors in fields of national strategic demand, including data science and big data technology, robotics engineering, intelligent manufacturing engineering, intelligent vehicle engineering, and international journalism and communication.北京交通大学新增了五个面向国家战略需求的本科专业，包括数据科学与大数据技术、机器人工程、智能制造工程、智能车辆工程以及国际新闻与传播。The Beijing Institute of Technology has introduced a low-altitude technology and engineering major, focusing on cultivating top-tier talent to meet the strategic needs of low-altitude economic development.北京理工大学新开设了低空技术专业，旨在培养顶尖人才，以满足低空经济发展的战略需求。Universities are adjusting their programs to align with social development and meet societal needs, according to Xiong.熊丙奇表示，高校正调整专业设置以适应社会发展并满足社会需求。Around 13.35 million students have registered for this year's gaokao, a decrease of 70,000 compared to last year and marking the first decline in a decade, according to data released by the ministry.根据教育部发布的数据，今年高考报名人数约为1335万，较去年减少7万人，系近十年来首次下降。The decline in exam candidates is primarily due to a decrease in vocational college entrance exam participants, who are no longer required to take the gaokao, Xiong explained. However, the number of candidates for the regular gaokao has increased, he said.熊丙奇解释说，考生人数下降主要是由于高职院校分类考试招生规模扩大，这部分考生不再必须参加统一高考。但他指出，参加普通高考的考生人数实际有所增加。"It is hoped that universities will expand enrollment based on their unique conditions and strengths, focusing not only on increasing numbers but also on improving quality," Xiong said.熊丙奇表示：“希望各高校能立足自身条件与特色扩大招生规模，既要注重数量增长，更要着力提升培养质量。”national college entrance exam高考enrollment/ɪnˈrəʊlmənt/n. 注册；参加；入学additional electives再选科目primary elective subject首选科目nationally standardized subjects全国统考科目admission/ədˈmɪʃn/n. 准许进入；招生

The global higher education landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, as China shows consistent improvement in academic output while universities in the United States face downward pressure in global rankings amid recent student visa policies, experts said.专家表示，全球高等教育格局正在发生深刻变革，中国学术产出持续提升，而美国大学则因近期学生签证政策的调整而面临全球排名下滑的压力。China has surpassed the US for the first time in the number of universities listed in the latest Global 2000 university rankings. Chinese institutions now account for 17 percent of the list, up from 324 last year to 346 this year, while the number of ranked US universities dropped from 329 to 319.在最新的全球2000强大学排名中，中国上榜大学数量首次超过美国。中国高校目前占榜单的17%，从去年的324所增至今年的346所，而上榜的美国大学数量则从329所降至319所。The World University Rankings 2025, released on Monday by the Center for World University Rankings, revealed that 98 percent of Chinese universities improved their positions—a surge attributed to enhanced research performance and sustained government investment in higher education.世界大学排名中心周一发布的2025年世界大学排名显示，98%的中国高校排名有所提升，这得益于科研水平的提高和政府对高等教育的持续投入。Tsinghua University rose six places to rank 37th, excelling in employability and research. Peking University advanced three places to the 44th, while the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences jumped four places to 46th—surpassing Shanghai Jiao Tong University in the 61st place and Zhejiang University in the 68th position.清华大学上升六位，位列第37位，在就业能力和科研方面表现出色。北京大学上升三位，位列第44位；中国科学院大学上升四位，位列第46位，超过了排名第61位的上海交通大学和排名第68位的浙江大学。Nadim Mahassen, president of the Center for World University Rankings, said that China is well represented among the world's top universities, and further financial backing from the government will allow the country to be more competitive in the rapidly evolving global academic landscape.世界大学排名中心主席纳迪姆·马哈森表示，中国在世界顶尖大学中占有重要地位，政府的进一步资金支持将使中国在快速发展的全球学术格局中更具竞争力。Although the US still has eight of the world's top 10 universities—led by Harvard, MIT and Stanford—83 percent of its listed institutions declined in rank. The United Kingdom's Cambridge and Oxford secured the fourth and fifth places, respectively.尽管美国仍然拥有世界前十名中的八所大学，以哈佛大学、麻省理工学院和斯坦福大学为首，但83%的上榜院校排名下降。英国的剑桥大学和牛津大学分别位列第四和第五。Mahassen said that while the US still boasts the top universities in the world, the decline in ranking of the vast majority of its higher education institutions on the list is concerning.马哈森表示，虽然美国仍然拥有世界顶尖大学，但榜单上绝大多数高等教育机构的排名下降令人担忧。"At a time when Chinese universities are reaping the rewards of years of generous financial support from their government, American institutions are grappling with slashed federal funding and disputes over academic freedom and free speech," he said.他说：“在中国大学多年来享受着政府慷慨资助的丰厚回报之际，美国高校却正努力应对联邦政府资金削减以及学术自由和言论自由争议。”Recent controversies, such as the Trump administration's move to revoke enrollment of international students at Harvard, later blocked by a federal judge, highlight the challenges facing US higher education.近期的争议，例如特朗普政府取消哈佛大学国际学生入学资格的举动，后来遭到联邦法官的阻挠，凸显了美国高等教育面临的挑战。"For many years, American universities were able to attract a large number of international students, particularly from China. But with China's extraordinary ascent in the rankings, coupled with the recent visa policies of the US, the situation may change soon," Mahassen said.马哈森表示：“多年来，美国大学能够吸引大量国际学生，尤其是来自中国的学生。但随着中国大学排名的飞速提升，再加上美国近期的签证政策，这种情况可能很快就会改变。”Liu Wei, senior vice-president of New Channel International Education Group and CEO of its overseas study division, said that China has been gaining ground in multiple international ranking systems—including QS, Times Higher Education and the Academic Ranking of World Universities—showing consistent improvement in academic output and global research influence.新航道国际教育集团副总裁兼留学服务事业部CEO刘威表示，中国在QS、泰晤士高等教育和世界大学学术排名等多个国际排名体系中均取得了进展，学术产出和全球研究影响力持续提升。He emphasized that recent US visa policies toward Chinese students, such as the announcement of revoking the visas of some of those studying in "critical fields", are also influencing the global higher education landscape and may affect the future rankings of US and Chinese institutions.他强调，美国近期针对中国学生的签证政策，例如宣布吊销部分“关键领域”学生的签证，也正在影响全球高等教育格局，并可能影响中美两国高校未来的排名。"Stricter visa policies have introduced uncertainty for Chinese students seeking to study in the US, prompting many to consider alternatives," Liu said.刘威表示：“更严格的签证政策给寻求赴美留学的中国学生带来了不确定性，促使许多人考虑其他选择。”Countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia and Singapore, as well as some European countries, have ramped up efforts to attract international students, particularly those diverting from the US.英国、加拿大、澳大利亚、新加坡等国家以及一些欧洲国家加大了吸引国际学生的力度，尤其是那些从美国转学而来的学生。Universities in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region also moved quickly to offer assistance when Harvard's ability to admit international students was curtailed.当哈佛大学招收国际学生受限时，香港特别行政区的大学也迅速采取行动提供帮助。Chen Zhiwen, a member of the Chinese Society of Educational Development Strategy, said that Chinese students contribute significantly to research productivity and academic exchanges on US campuses, especially in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math, as well as among postgraduate students.中国教育发展战略学会理事陈志文表示，中国学生，包括研究生，在科学、技术、工程和数学等领域为美国高校科研产出和学术交流做出了重要贡献。A decline in the number of Chinese students due to visa policies could have an impact on academic output in US higher education, Chen said. Chinese universities could benefit from this in the long term, as students who planned to study in the US may instead enroll in top domestic institutions, boosting China's academic and research environment, he added.陈志文表示，签证政策导致中国留学生数量下降，可能会对美国高等教育的学术产出产生影响。他补充道，长期来看，中国大学可能会从中受益，因为原本计划赴美留学的学生可能会转而就读国内顶尖高校，从而提升中国的学术和科研生态。"Since 2018, the proportion of Tsinghua University graduates pursuing overseas studies has shown a declining trend," he said, adding that the trend could usher in a more multipolar higher education system, reducing the US' historical dominance.“自2018年以来，清华大学毕业生出国留学的比例呈下降趋势。”他补充道，这一趋势可能催生一个更加多极化的高等教育体系，削弱美国历史上的主导地位。reap/riːp/v.收获，获得grapple with/ˈɡræpl wɪð/v.设法应对，努力解决revocation/ˌrevəˈkeɪʃn/n.撤销，废除multipolar/ˌmʌltiˈpoʊlər/adj.多极化的

Lee Jae-myung of South Korea's majority liberal Democratic Party was elected president, the ongoing vote count by the National Election Commission showed on Wednesday.韩国中央选举管理委员会周三进行的计票显示，韩国执政党共同民主党的李在明当选总统。With 94.4 percent of the votes counted after midnight, Lee won 48.8 percent and his major rival Kim Moon-soo of the conservative People Power Party took 42.0 percent, the National Election Commission data showed.据中央选举管理委员会的数据显示，午夜后已统计94.4%的选票，李在明获得48.8%的选票，其主要竞争对手、保守派国民力量党的金文洙获得42.0%的选票。Even if all the remaining uncounted votes go to Kim, Lee will win the presidential by-election, confirming his victory.即使所有剩余未计票都投给金文洙，李在明也将赢得总统补选，确立其胜选地位。Local broadcaster JTBC and three terrestrial broadcasters including KBS, MBC and SBS forecast earlier that Lee was certain to be elected the country's 21st president.韩国地方电视台JTBC以及KBS、MBC和SBS等三家地面电视台此前预测，李在明必将当选韩国第21任总统。Preliminary voter turnout reached 79.4 percent, marking the highest in 28 years since the voting rate recorded 80.7 percent in 1997.初步数据显示，选民投票率达到79.4%，为28年来最高纪录，上一次投票率达到80.7%是在1997年。Out of about 44.39 million eligible voters, some 35.24 million cast their ballots at 14,295 polling stations across the country.在约4439万合格选民中，约3524万人在全国14295个投票站投票。The voter turnout, which included those who participated in early voting last Thursday and Friday, was up from 77.1 percent tallied in the previous presidential election in 2022.包括上周四和周五提前投票的选民在内，本次投票率高于2022年上届总统选举的77.1%。liberal/ˈlɪbərəl/adj.自由派的；主张变革的turnout/ˈtɜːrnaʊt/n.出席人数；投票率eligible/ˈelɪdʒəbl/adj.有资格的；合格的forecast/ˈfɔːrkæst/v./n.预测，预报

China's top 100 developers recorded combined sales of 1.44 trillion yuan ($199 billion) from January to May, a 10.8 percent year-on-year decline, according to the latest data from real estate market consultancy China Index Holdings.根据房地产市场咨询机构中指控股的最新数据，今年1月至5月，中国百强房企累计实现销售额1.44万亿元人民币（1990亿美元），同比下降10.8%。The contraction remained largely unchanged from the first four months of this year, with only a marginal 0.6 percentage point narrowing, underscoring the continued challenges faced by the sector.销售降幅与今年前四个月相比基本持平，仅小幅收窄0.6个百分点，突显出该行业面临的持续挑战。The monthly data also revealed an intensifying downward trend, with May sales alone falling 17.3 percent year-on-year, a 0.5 percentage point wider decline compared to April.月度数据还显示下行趋势加剧，仅5月份销售额就同比下降17.3%，降幅较4月扩大0.5个百分点。The gradual deterioration in sales performance came despite some variations across different tiers of developers.尽管不同梯队的开发商表现存在差异，但销售业绩仍持续走低。While firms ranked 31-50 managed to limit their sales decline to 3.6 percent, other segments saw more pronounced decreases, particularly those ranked 51-100 where sales plummeted by over 15 percent, according to the CIH data.根据中国指数研究院（CIH）的数据，排名第31至50名的房企成功将销售额降幅控制在3.6%，而其他梯队则出现了更显著的下跌，尤其是排名第51至100名的房企，其销售额暴跌超过15%。  In addition, market concentration appeared to be increasing, with 33 developers maintaining sales above 10 billion yuan, matching last year's performance in the same period.此外，市场集中度似乎正在提高。有33家开发商的销售额维持在百亿元以上，与去年同期持平。Within this group, the number of developers surpassing 50 billion yuan actually increased by one to eight, while those crossing the 5 billion yuan threshold fell by six to 64, highlighting how larger developers are demonstrating relative resilience even as their smaller counterparts face growing operational pressures in an increasingly competitive environment.在这一梯队中，销售额突破五百亿元的开发商数量实际上增加了一家，达到八家，然而销售额跨过五十亿元门槛的开发商数量则减少了六家，降至64家。这凸显出，在竞争日益激烈的环境下，规模更大的开发商正展现出相对较强的韧性，而规模较小的同行则面临着越来越大的经营压力。Despite persistent market headwinds, there are also emerging signs that supportive policy measures and sales strategies are starting to take effect.尽管市场逆风持续存在，但也开始出现一些迹象，表明支持性政策措施和销售策略正在开始发挥作用。Real estate information provider CRIC data showed that more than half of leading developers saw month-on-month sales improvements in May, with 22 firms posting gains of over 30 percent. Several major players such as Greentown China and China Jinmao achieved both year-on-year and month-on-month growth.房地产信息提供商克而瑞（CRIC）的数据显示，5月份超过半数的领先开发商销售额实现环比增长，其中22家企业的增幅超过30%。绿城中国、中国金茂等几家主要房企更是实现了同比和环比的双增长。The rising signs of stabilization come against a backdrop of significant policy easing.这些初现的稳定迹象，出现在政策大幅宽松的背景下。In May, the People's Bank of China, the country's central bank, implemented a comprehensive monetary easing package, including a 50-basis-point cut to the reserve requirement ratio and a 10-basis-point reduction in the policy interest rate, with the current 5-year loan prime rate adjusted downward from 3.6 percent to 3.5 percent.5月，中国央行中国人民银行实施了一套全面的货币宽松政策组合，包括下调金融机构存款准备金率50个基点，以及下调政策利率10个基点。当前，5年期以上贷款市场报价利率（LPR）已从3.6%下调至3.5%。Looking ahead to June, CIH expects the current policy loosening to continue, potentially bolstered by developers' midyear sales pushes.展望六月，中指研究院（CIH）预计当前的政策放松态势将持续，并可能因开发商的年中促销冲刺而得到强化。"With the midyear sales season approaching, developers are expected to accelerate project launches and intensify promotional efforts," it said.中指研究院表示：“随着年中销售季临近，开发商预计将加速推盘并加大促销力度。”While core cities may sustain their recovery momentum, market divergence across different cities and between new and existing projects is likely to persist, CIH said.中指研究院表示，虽然核心城市可能保持复苏势头，但不同城市之间、新房与二手房市场之间的分化现象将持续。China Index Holdings中指研究院contraction/kənˈtrækʃ/n.收缩; 缩小real estate/ˈri: əl əsteɪt/n.房地产;不动产interest rate利率midyear sales pushes年中大促

As dragon boats swiftly navigated the narrow waterways of the Diejiao water town in Foshan, Guangdong province, the crowds were thrilled at the jaw-dropping maneuvers and fierce competition.当龙舟在广东佛山叠滘水乡狭窄的水道中飞速穿行时，观众为其令人叹为观止的操控和激烈的角逐兴奋不已。The traditional racing event attracted more than 2 million visitors to the town during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday.端午节假期期间，这项传统赛事吸引了超过200万游客前来参观。The Diejiao dragon boat race is an intangible cultural heritage in Foshan. The narrow and winding rivers there prompt the rowers to perform dramatic stunts and sudden stops during the race, earning it the nickname of the "fast and furious".叠滘龙舟赛是佛山市的非物质文化遗产。由于河道狭窄蜿蜒，赛艇运动员在比赛中需要做出各种惊险刺激的动作和急停，因此被称为“速度与激情”。For example, in the Dongsheng competition section, each team of nearly 40 members must navigate a 25-meter-long boat at a high speed through a 560-meter course consisting of six sharp turns.例如，在东胜赛区，每支近40人的队伍必须驾驶一艘25米长的龙舟，高速穿越560米长的、包含六个急弯的赛道。The roar of paddles was matched by the thunderous shouting and cheering of excited spectators. Among the visitors was a 27-year-old marketing manager from Shenzhen, surnamed Zhu.桨声震耳欲聋，现场观众的欢呼声也如雷鸣般震耳欲聋。来自深圳、27岁的市场经理朱先生也在观赛人群之中。"It was my first time seeing a dragon boat race up close, especially the thrilling bend sprints unique to Diejiao," he said. "The atmosphere was marvelous and unbelievable, and crowds packed the riverbanks and even rooftops."“这是我第一次近距离观看龙舟比赛，尤其是叠滘独有的惊险刺激的弯道冲刺，”他说。“现场气氛精彩绝伦，令人难以置信，河岸甚至屋顶都挤满了人。”"From incense rituals and firecrackers to dragon boat races and lively food stalls, the village was alive with tradition," he said.“从上香仪式、鞭炮声，到龙舟竞渡和热闹的小吃摊，整个村庄都洋溢着传统气息，”他说。During the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, from Saturday to Monday, Foshan received over 2 million visitors, marking a 46.11 percent year-on-year increase, said the local government.当地政府表示，端午节假期（周六至周一），佛山接待游客超过200万人次，同比增长46.11%。Tourism revenue is estimated to have surged to 1.015 billion yuan ($141 million) during the three-day holiday, up 49.26 percent year-on-year, it added on Monday.周一，佛山市政府补充道，预计三天假期旅游收入将飙升至10.15亿元人民币（1.41亿美元），同比增长49.26%。The competition in Foshan will last until June 15, and top teams from across Guangdong and those from other cities such as Hong Kong and Macao will be invited to participate.佛山的比赛将持续到6月15日，届时将邀请来自广东省各地以及香港、澳门等其他城市的顶尖队伍参赛。Dragon Boat Festival is a traditional holiday honoring Qu Yuan, one of ancient China's greatest patriotic poets, and is marked nationwide by thrilling dragon boat races.端午节是纪念中国古代最伟大的爱国诗人屈原的传统节日，全国各地都会举行精彩纷呈的龙舟比赛。Data from travel services provider Qunar showed that, as of Monday, searches containing keywords like "dragon boat" and "zongzi" more than doubled compared with the previous month, and bookings for destinations offering folk culture experiences rose more than 40 percent.旅游服务提供商去哪儿网的数据显示，截至周一，“龙舟”和“粽子”等关键词的搜索量环比增长了一倍多，预订提供民俗文化体验的目的地的数量增长了40%以上。In recent years, more areas have expanded their festivities by blending the races with local culture and tourism, creating richer and more immersive experiences for visitors and boosting the local economy.近年来，越来越多的地区将龙舟比赛与当地文化和旅游相结合，拓展了节日庆祝活动，为游客创造了更丰富、更沉浸式的体验，促进了当地经济发展。In Haikou, Hainan province, about 40 teams, including those from Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines, competed in international dragon boat racing from Saturday to Sunday, attracting over 219,000 visitors, Haikou Daily reported.据《海口日报》报道，海南省海口市在周六至周日举办国际龙舟邀请赛，约有40支队伍参赛，包括来自马来西亚、新加坡、菲律宾的代表队，共吸引游客超过21.9万人次。In Fujian province, Fangzhuang village, one of China's largest wood dragon boat manufacturing hubs, received over 200 orders for dragon boats this year, setting a record.在福建省，作为中国最大的木制龙舟制造中心之一，方庄村今年接到了超过200艘龙舟的订单，创下了历史新高。Fang Jianwei, a dragon boat craftsman, said they have received orders from Fujian, Guangdong and Jiangxi provinces. There were also overseas orders, including those from the United States and Japan.龙舟工匠方剑伟表示，他们接到了来自福建、广东和江西等地的订单，也包括来自美国和日本的海外订单。Dragon boat traditions go beyond southern China. This year, northern-style racing returned to the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal in Cangzhou, Hebei province, after nearly 200 years.龙舟传统远不仅限于中国南方。今年，北方风格的龙舟赛事时隔近200年，重返河北沧州的京杭大运河。"The race highlights not just speed, but also skill and creativity," said Zhang Ge, deputy general manager of Cangzhou Grand Canal Development Group, adding that the city plans to turn dragon boat shows into a regular tourism product, integrating cultural, social and economic benefits to boost Cangzhou's cultural tourism appeal.“龙舟赛事不仅注重速度，更注重技巧和创意。”沧州大运河发展集团副总经理张阁说道。他还表示，沧州计划将龙舟表演打造成常态化旅游产品，集文化效益、社会效益和经济效益于一体，提升沧州的文化旅游吸引力。intangible cultural heritage非物质文化遗产maneuver/məˈnuːvər/n.精巧动作；策略；演习v.熟练地移动；操纵immersive/ɪˈmɜːrsɪv/adj.身临其境的；沉浸式的patriotic/ˌpeɪtriˈɒtɪk/adj.爱国的

The United States' repeated and unpredictable policy shifts have not only enhanced the risk of deepening its economic and trade frictions with China, but have also weakened its credibility in the international market, analysts and exporters said on Monday.分析人士和出口商周一表示，美国反复无常、不可预测的政策变化，不仅增加了加深其与中国经贸摩擦的风险，也削弱了其在国际市场上的信誉。These policy shifts are undermining the confidence of global businesses and investors in US policies, market conditions and assets, they added.他们补充道，这些政策变化正在削弱全球企业和投资者对美国政策、市场状况及资产的信心。Their remarks came after the Ministry of Commerce urged the US to promptly rectify its wrongful actions. In a statement issued on Monday, the ministry said the US has seriously undermined the consensus reached during the China-US economic and trade talks on May 12 in Geneva, Switzerland, by repeatedly imposing discriminatory and restrictive measures on China.他们的言论是在中国商务部敦促美国立即纠正错误做法之后发表的。商务部在周一发表的声明中表示，美国一再对中国实施歧视性和限制性措施，严重损害了5月12日在瑞士日内瓦举行的中美经贸会谈中达成的共识。The measures include issuing export control guidance for artificial intelligence chips, halting sales of chip design software to China, and announcing the revocation of visas for Chinese students.这些措施包括发布人工智能芯片出口管制指引、停止向中国出售芯片设计软件，以及宣布撤销中国学生签证。The ministry warned that if the US continues to undermine China's interests, China will adopt effective measures to defend its legitimate rights and interests.商务部警告称，如果美方继续损害中方利益，中方将采取有效措施维护自身合法权益。Describing the outcomes of the Geneva talks as "hard-won", the ministry said the US has unilaterally and repeatedly triggered frictions, exacerbating uncertainty and instability in bilateral economic and trade relations.中国商务部将日内瓦会谈的成果描述为“来之不易”，并表示美方单方面、反复挑起摩擦，加剧了双边经贸关系的不确定性和不稳定性。Based on the consensus reached during the talks, China has temporarily canceled or suspended relevant tariff and nontariff countermeasures against the US' "reciprocal tariffs", the ministry said.商务部表示，基于会谈期间达成的共识，中方已暂时取消或暂停针对美方“对等关税”实施的相关关税和非关税反制措施。Wan Zhe, a professor of international trade at Beijing Normal University, said the US tariffs are essentially a radical attempt to politicize and instrumentalize trade issues.北京师范大学国际贸易教授万喆表示，美国的关税本质上是将贸易问题政治化和工具化的激进尝试。"The erratic and unpredictable nature of these tariff and economic measures has damaged the US' credibility in the global economy and dented global investors' confidence in the US market," Wan said, adding that the consequences will come at a steep cost for both its economy and international standing.万喆说：“这些关税和经济措施反复无常、不可预测的性质，损害了美国在全球经济中的信誉，削弱了全球投资者对美国市场的信心。”她补充说，其后果将给美国经济和国际地位带来高昂代价。Zak Stambor, an analyst at eMarketer Inc, a market research company based in New York City, said the US' "ever-shifting trade policies" mean "navigating an increasingly unpredictable landscape", making life and any attempts at financial planning harder for both manufacturers and consumers.纽约市场研究公司eMarketer的分析师扎克·斯坦博表示，美国“不断变化的贸易政策”意味着要“在一个日益不可预测的环境中航行”，这使得制造商和消费者的生活以及任何进行财务规划的尝试都变得更加困难。"The policies in place today may well shift tomorrow, making medium-term planning challenging and long-term planning nearly impossible," he said. "No wonder so many US companies are pulling their guidance altogether."他说：“今天的政策明天就可能改变，这使得中期规划充满挑战，长期规划几乎不可能。难怪这么多美国公司干脆撤回了业绩指引。”The frustration is not limited to US companies.叫苦不迭的不仅仅是美国公司。On Saturday, the European Commission, the executive arm of the European Union, said, "We strongly regret the announced increase of US tariffs on steel imports from 25 percent to 50 percent."周六，欧盟执行机构欧盟委员会表示：“我们对美国宣布将钢铁进口关税从25%提高到50%深表遗憾。”The US' announcement "adds further uncertainty to the global economy and increases costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic", the commission said, adding that the plan also undermines efforts to bring an end to the wider tariff standoff.欧盟委员会表示，美国的公告“给全球经济增添了更多不确定性，并增加了大西洋两岸消费者和企业的成本”，并补充说该计划还破坏了结束更广泛关税僵局的努力。Gao Lingyun, a researcher specializing in international trade at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing, said the US' broader goals of reshoring manufacturing and maintaining economic hegemony cannot be addressed simply by imposing tariffs and other trade remedy measures on its trading partners.中国社会科学院（北京）国际贸易研究员高凌云表示，美国通过将制造业回流本土和维持经济霸权等更广泛的目标，不可能仅仅通过对其贸易伙伴加征关税和实施其他贸易救济措施就得以解决。In addition to the tariffs, the US has also been resorting to technological blockades and investment restrictions in its bid to contain China. Such multifaceted frictions are likely to be long-term, Gao said.高凌云说，除了关税之外，美国还一直在诉诸技术封锁和投资限制以遏制中国。这种多方面摩擦很可能是长期性的。Diversifying markets市场多元化Ningbo Lemeijia Electric Equipment Technology, a home appliance manufacturer based in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, and long-term supplier to the US market, said the company has actively communicated with its US partners and explored opportunities to bag more orders after the Geneva talks.总部位于浙江省宁波市的家电制造商、美国市场的长期供应商宁波乐美佳电器科技有限公司表示，在日内瓦会谈后，公司已积极与美国合作伙伴沟通，并探索拿到更多订单的机会。Even though the company's exports to the US surged 16.9 percent year-on-year to 220 million yuan ($31 million) last year, Luo Lujin, president of Ningbo Lemeijia, said the company has deployed more resources and manpower this year to cultivate emerging markets, especially those in Southeast Asia, Latin America and the Middle East, in order to mitigate the risks brought by unilateralism and geopolitical tensions.尽管该公司去年对美出口额同比增长16.9%，达到2.2亿元人民币（3100万美元），但宁波乐美佳总裁罗鲁津表示，今年公司已投入更多资源和人力来开拓新兴市场，特别是东南亚、拉丁美洲和中东的市场，以减轻单边主义和地缘政治紧张带来的风险。"Global trade flows are being seriously hampered by supply chain breakdowns, high tariff rates and other challenges. This makes diversification not just an option, but an essential strategy for survival," Luo said.罗鲁津说：“全球贸易流动正受到供应链中断、高关税和其他挑战的严重阻碍。这使得多元化不仅是一种选择，更是一种生存必需之策。”trade friction贸易摩擦countermeasures/ˈkaʊntəˌmɛʒəz/n.对策;对抗措施emerging markets新兴市场trade flows贸易流通tariff standoff关税僵局

Beijing has urged Washington to protect the interests of international students amid reports that the United States government has halted the scheduling of new interviews for student visa applicants.针对美国政府暂停安排学生签证申请人新面签的报道，北京已敦促华盛顿方面切实保障国际学生权益。"China believes that education cooperation and academic exchanges should not be disrupted," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Wednesday.外交部发言人毛宁周三表示：“中方认为教育合作与学术交流不应受到干扰。”Mao made the remark after foreign media reported that the US government is considering requiring all foreign students applying to study in the US to undergo social media vetting, and in preparation for the vetting, is ordering US embassies and consular sections to pause scheduling new interviews for such visa applicants.此前，外媒报道称，美国政府正考虑要求所有赴美留学的外国学生接受社交媒体的审查，并为此暂停美国使领馆对该类签证申请人新的签证面谈。The spokeswoman said that China is following the current development, which comes days after the US government revoked Harvard University's ability to enroll international students. The revocation has been temporarily blocked by a court restraining order.毛宁指出，中方正密切关注事态发展。此前数日，美国政府刚取消哈佛大学招收国际学生的资格，该决定现已被法院限制令临时叫停。"We urge the US to protect the lawful and legitimate rights and interests of all international students, including those from China," Mao added.她强调：“我们敦促美方切实保障包括中国留学生在内的所有国际学生的合法权益。”In an interview with China Media Group on Wednesday, a staff member of the US embassy in Beijing said the embassy has not received relevant information, and visa applications and interviews are proceeding as usual.在周三接受中国环球电视网采访时，美国驻华大使馆工作人员表示未收到相关信息，签证申请及面签程序均正常进行。A 20-year-old Chinese student, who is majoring in computer science at a US university, said the reported measure will not affect his studies in the US, because he already has a long-term student visa.一位就读于美国大学计算机专业的20岁中国留学生表示，该政策不会影响其学业，因其已持有长期学生签证。However, those currently applying for majors at US universities may feel anxious about the move, he said, adding that the US is not as welcoming for international students as it used to be.但他指出，当前正在申请美国院校的学生可能因此焦虑，并坦言“美国对国际学生的欢迎程度已不如往昔”。According to a report released on Friday by New Oriental Education and Technology Group, an education company in China, the US has been the second most popular country for Chinese students who intend to study abroad for six years in a row.据中国的教育公司，新东方教育科技集团上周五发布的报告显示，美国已连续六年位居中国留学生意向目的地第二位。However, the US government has stepped up its crackdown on international students this year, including by abruptly terminating their legal status.然而今年以来，美政府持续加大对国际学生的限制力度，包括突然终止其合法身份等举措。halt/hɔ:lt/v.使停止;停止，终止vet/vet/v.审查;仔细检查legitimate rights合法权利embassy/ˈembəsi/n.大使馆；使馆官员crackdown/ˈkrækdaʊn/v.打击；镇压