Round Table China

We recommend one film from the 15th Beijing International Film Festival: the compelling Chinese movie, Better Me, Better You (《好好的》). / Smartphones have become extensions of ourselves—so what happens when schools restrict them? From China's classroom bans (correlated with rising dropout rates) to UK campaigns for smartphone-free childhoods over mental health concerns, educators face an impossible choice: protect students' focus or risk disengaging them entirely (09:06). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Laiming

Hainan—China's breathtaking tropical paradise—is famous for its pristine beaches and idyllic climate. But now, the island is making headlines for something even sweeter: its exotic fruit farms are becoming a delicious new driver of rural revitalization. We explore the opportunities of this juicy venture—and what lessons other regions can harvest from Hainan's success. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Laiming

Lunar data centers promise extreme cooling and cosmic isolation—but are they worth the astronomical costs and logistical challenges? With Earth-based solutions still viable, is this visionary leap even justified? / We recommend one film from the 15th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) (21:04)! On the show: Steve Hatherly, Li Yi & Yushun

The way young people shop in China is changing rapidly. A new report reveals that over 40% of young consumers now prioritize emotional value and personal interests in their purchases. We explore this shift and uncover the drivers behind this emotional trend. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Li Yi & Yushun

In the West, potatoes are known as the comfort-food king—mashed, fried, or baked. But in China, they've traditionally played second fiddle to rice and noodles. Now, that could be changing. Introducing potato rice: a starch-savvy innovation that looks and cooks like rice, but is made entirely from potato. With its higher protein and fiber content, could this grainy newcomer become a staple on Chinese tables? We compare palates, preferences, and explore the future of food. / The plastics in gum (18:12). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Anime, manga, and gaming used to be dismissed as mere pastimes for kids and 'nerds.' But that fantasy world? It's exploded into the mainstream. ACG is now a major economic force, influencing how we shop, socialize, and spend. Are you ready for your inner stan to take over your wallet? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Over the past five years, outdoor activities like biking and camping have seen remarkable growth, driving expansion across related industries. Now, as pleasant weather returns, a new picnic culture is blossoming - one that values genuine outdoor enjoyment over picture-perfect social media moments. / Game transfer phenomenon: When virtual and real worlds collide (17:37). On the show: Laiming, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Many of us scroll through applications on our phones when we shop. But imagine a tropical island where you can explore hundreds of thousands of products from more than 4,000 brands—no algorithms, just real-world browsing. Walk through pavilions of innovation, from household essentials to the latest tech. Suddenly, your wishlist just got a whole lot bigger! On the show: Laiming, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

China's outdoor boom has more hikers venturing into remote areas, leading to increased rescues. Now, NGOs, rescue teams, and tech companies—including smartphone and EV makers—are collaborating on high-tech solutions that have saved dozens. But is this tech making adventurers overconfident? / How often should you wash your feet (17:00)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

China's traditional farmers' markets have shed their messy past for a high-tech makeover, complete with self-checkout kiosks and digital systems. The glossy upgrades promise convenience, but can elderly shoppers who've spent decades counting change and chatting with vendors adapt as easily? Are these changes actually working for everyone—or just for those already comfortable with technology? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun