Microsoft Is Retreating in China, But AI Is Giving It a Reason to Stay

BEIJING/SHANGHAI, China — Microsoft is scaling back parts of its China operations while maintaining a presence in the market, as geopolitical tensions, Chinese technology policies and U.S. export restrictions reshape its business strategy. Reuters reported that the company has closed at least 15 branch offices and joint ventures in China over the past five years, even as its cloud and AI services for Chinese companies operating overseas provide a reason to stay.

Typhoon Dolphin Hits Japan, China Shuts Ports Ahead of Landfall

TOKYO/BEIJING, Japan/China — Typhoon Dolphin battered Japan’s southern Okinawa prefecture on Saturday, August 8, 2026, injuring six people and disrupting power supplies to more than 50,000 buildings, while authorities in eastern China closed ports, suspended ferry services and prepared for the storm’s expected landfall.

Trump Administration to Invest $3 Billion in US Minerals

WASHINGTON, United States — The Trump administration plans to invest $3 billion in critical minerals and battery projects as it seeks to expand domestic production, strengthen defense supply chains and reduce U.S. dependence on foreign sources, particularly China, President Donald Trump said on Friday.