China’s US$24 billion seaport push; war on Iran as ‘wake-up call’: SCMP’s 7 highlights

We have selected seven stories from this week’s news across Hong Kong, mainland China, the wider Asia region and beyond that resonated with our readers and shed light on topical issues. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.1. ‘We couldn’t reach them’: Chinese firms’ Iran business in limbo after strikesRising tensions in the Middle East following attacks on Iran are having an impact on the trade corridors and investment plans of Chinese exporters and investors, who had seen Iran and the broader region as crucial growth markets.2. China eyes US$23.9 billion in global seaports despite Panama Canal loss: studyThough a Hong Kong operator has lost control of the Panama Canal, one of the world’s most pivotal waterways for merchant ships, researchers said this week that Chinese state institutions have funded hundreds of other seaports around the world.3. 75% cost cut: China unveils world’s first fixed-wing drone made of bamboo fibreThe bamboo-based unmanned aerial vehicle’s maiden flight took place in February, researchers said. Photo: XinhuaChinese researchers have developed a drone with wings made from bamboo, making it 20 per cent lighter and considerably cheaper than a carbon fibre device, according to state news agency Xinhua.