Iran state TV reported three foreign oil tankers attempting an "unauthorized" transit of the Strait of Hormuz were forced to turn back after a warning from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps navy.

China's IC design sector posted sales of 826.11 bln yuan in 2025, up 24.8% YoY, with nearly a 20% CAGR over the past 20 years, China Semiconductor Industry Association vice chairman Wei Shaojun said at the 2026 China (Shenzhen) Integrated Circuit Summit. Domestic IC design count is about 3,900 firms, of which 87% have fewer than 100 employees, a high share of micro and small enterprises. Wei said low- and mid-level talent supply largely meets demand but high-end talent is insufficient, and he urged improved implementation of talent policies.

Asian LNG buyers expect Qatar to lift force majeure covering shipments in mid‑July as regional tensions ease and Qatar increases exports. QatarEnergy has not signaled it will extend the clause; it typically notifies customers about a month before any extension, suggesting intent to let it lapse. A similar force majeure covering European buyers is expected to expire in mid‑August and is also expected to be lifted.