July 2026 China domestic routes averaged about 14,833 daily flights, up 22.94% MoM and 1.74% YoY, and 18.76% above July 2019 levels. Daily average on international/region routes from within China was about 2,297 flights, up 9.25% MoM, down 2.41% YoY and roughly 82% of July 2019 levels.

Iran's deputy foreign minister said Iran and Oman have made significant progress and are close to finalizing an agreement on arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz.

Caixin reported on Aug 5 that Beijing and Hangzhou have recorded cases of personal income tax being levied on Hong Kong insurance returns—specifically insurance dividends and interest on prepaid premiums—with individual cases applying a 20% rate. The report said the levies are not yet widespread and there is no unified, clear enforcement standard. The Hong Kong Insurance Authority said the HONG KONG GOVT and the regulator are closely monitoring mainland tax arrangements for financial products and will keep close industry communication. It reiterated that Chinese residents have long been required to declare and pay tax on overseas investment income and advised the market not to over-interpret the reports. The regulator noted Hong Kong’s insurance market remains mature and offers flexible product features—currency choice, global asset allocation and wealth-planning services—that continue to attract mainland clients.