The Digester

China removes jet designer online; US warships visit Malaysia — 7 highlights

Mar 20th 2026

Seven quick takes from Hong Kong, mainland China and the wider Asia region on tech, trade, security and science to keep you informed fast.

  • Chinese authorities removed online material tied to a prominent jet designer, reflecting tighter controls on military and technical information.
  • Two US Navy warships made a port call in Malaysia this week, spotlighting regional security cooperation.
  • China is targeting foreign photoresist supplies as part of a push for semiconductor self-sufficiency.
  • China and the US concluded a round of trade talks in Paris with outstanding questions on tariffs and investment.
  • Vietnamese Fields Medalist Ngo Bao Chau will leave the US to join the University of Hong Kong to help build Asian strength in maths and science.
  • Beijing is prioritizing chokepoint materials and technologies to reduce vulnerability to export controls.
  • Regional supply chain and security concerns are driving closer industrial and military coordination across Asia.

Articles