China has imposed a 55% tariff on beef imports exceeding new quota limits, marking a significant shift in global trade policy aimed at protecting its domestic cattle industry. The three-year safeguard measure is expected to impact major exporters such as Brazil and Australia, while raising broader questions about supply chains, pricing, and international trade compliance. Although Ireland is not a primary exporter to China, the move highlights growing volatility in global agricultural markets and underscores the risks posed by sudden policy changes for producers worldwide.

China has launched large-scale military drills encircling Taiwan, mobilizing army, navy, air, and rocket forces as part of “Justice Mission 2025.” Beijing described the exercises as a “stern warning” against separatist forces and foreign interference, while Taiwan has condemned the manoeuvres as provocative and placed its military on high alert, highlighting rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait.