May 31 — China’s PLA South Theater Command deployed naval and air forces for combat-readiness patrols in the territorial waters, airspace and adjacent sea/air areas around Huangyan Island (Scarborough Shoal). The command said patrols have been intensified since May to deter incursions, reiterated that Huangyan Island is Chinese territory, and framed the operations as protecting sovereignty and maintaining South China Sea stability.

Mehr News Agency reported explosions on Iran's Qeshm Island. The nature and source of the blasts are currently unclear.

The Service Industry Survey Center of the NBS and the China Federation of Logistics & Purchasing jointly released May non-manufacturing data on May 31. The non-manufacturing business activity index rose to 50.1%, up 0.7 ppt MoM, returning to expansion. The services business activity index moved into expansion and market activity improved. Concentrated consumption during the May Day holiday boosted tourism, dining, cultural and sports leisure, and retail sector activity MoM.