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In this episode of The Restricted Handling Podcast, we're diving deep into China's latest moves on the global stage. From the re-opening of passenger trains between China and North Korea to the ongoing tussle with the US over trade tariffs, we've got the big highlights that you won't want to miss. China isn't just playing checkers here. They're making strategic moves in multiple arenas to ensure their place as a global powerhouse. Whether it's flexing military muscle in Taiwan, stepping up tech surveillance in the Strait of Hormuz, or strengthening ties with North Korea, China is keeping the world on its toes.

We start with a big update on the China-North Korea relationship. After six years of pandemic-related pause, the two countries are resurrecting passenger trains between Pyongyang and Beijing. This move isn't just about travel; it's about cementing China's control and influence over its isolated neighbor. And while the train tickets might be reserved for select passengers right now, it's a clear message that China is playing a long game.

Then, we turn the spotlight on China's trade game. Despite the ongoing tariff war with the US, China's exports surged by a massive 21.8% in the first two months of 2026. That's three times what economists were predicting, and it's a serious flex. We also dive into how China is navigating a shifting global trade landscape with a drop in exports to the US but rising exports to Southeast Asia and Europe. We're breaking down how China is adapting and where they're placing their bets.

Of course, no China update would be complete without touching on Taiwan. China's military expansion is ramping up with more Type 055 destroyers joining the fleet, making their presence in the East China Sea even more intimidating. The PLA Navy isn't slowing down, and Taiwan continues to be a key focus. These warships aren't just flexing—they're ready to back up Beijing's aggressive posture in the region.

We also cover China's high-tech surveillance efforts. The Liaowang-1, the world's largest intelligence vessel, is currently tracking military movements in the Strait of Hormuz. With its ability to monitor up to 1,200 targets at once, this floating supercomputer is gathering real-time intelligence for China. It's not just there for the ride—it's part of a bigger strategy to stay ahead in the intelligence game.

And last but not least, we touch on espionage. Australia's got its hands full with an ongoing case involving a businessman allegedly providing sensitive reports to China's Ministry of State Security. Meanwhile, China is tightening its own internal security protocols to protect its state secrets, knowing that foreign intelligence agencies are always lurking. The world of spying is as busy as ever, and China is right in the middle of it.

So grab your coffee, get comfy, and dive into the latest on China's international strategy, military moves, and high-tech surveillance efforts. This is one episode you don't want to miss.

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