International News 29 May 2026
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China’s Gold Demand Rises, April Imports from Hong Kong Reach 86.7 Tons
China’s net gold imports through Hong Kong surged sharply in April 2026. Data released by Hong Kong’s Census and Statistics Department on Thursday (May 28, 2026) showed that net imports jumped 81.2% compared with the previous month. According to Reuters, China, the world’s largest gold consumer, recorded net gold imports of 86.715 metric tons in April, up from 47.866 tons in March. The increase also marked the 13th consecutive month of monthly growth. Meanwhile, China’s total gold imports through Hong Kong reached 99.327 tons in April, rising about 24.8% from 79.576 tons in the previous month. However, Hong Kong data does not fully reflect China’s total gold purchases, as imports are also conducted through Shanghai and Beijing. China’s gold buying activity remains closely watched by global markets because it can influence international gold prices and overall demand trends.
Russia Begins Earlier LNG Shipments to Asia via Northern Sea Route
An LNG carrier transporting liquefied natural gas from a Russian export terminal to Asia has begun its voyage through the Northern Sea Route (NSR). According to LSEG data released on Thursday (May 28, 2026), the shipment marks the first transit along the route this year, as the Arctic navigation season opened earlier than usual. Russia has been intensifying efforts to expand trade flows with Asian markets via the NSR, which is viewed as an alternative to conventional shipping corridors such as the Suez Canal. The move comes amid growing concerns over global maritime security, particularly in the Middle East due to ongoing military tensions. Data also showed that the ice-class tanker Christophe de Margerie departed carrying cargo from the Arctic LNG 2 facility, a project that has been sanctioned by the United States in relation to the conflict in Ukraine.
US and Iran Agree on 60-Day Ceasefire, Awaiting Donald Trump’s Approval
The United States and Iran have reportedly reached an agreement on a 60-day memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at extending the ceasefire while initiating negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. However, the deal still requires final approval from U.S. President Donald Trump before it can officially take effect. According to an Axios report published on Thursday (May 28, 2026), the agreement was achieved following a series of intensive discussions between officials from both countries amid rising international concerns over escalating tensions in the Middle East. “The United States and Iran have reached an agreement on a 60-day memorandum of understanding to extend the ceasefire and begin negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program, but President Donald Trump still needs to give final approval,” Axios reported, citing two U.S. officials.