Round Table China

A time restriction in Guangzhou is catching subway riders off guard and sparking debate about extra fees for staying underground too long. The policy raises questions about whether public transit systems should charge passengers for the time they spend inside their stations. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun

Bees pollinate one third of the global food supply, but shifting seasons and shrinking habitats are putting them at risk. Beekeepers in China are responding with smart hive technology and restored flower habitats. These efforts to protect pollinating insects are also creating new economic possibilities for rural communities. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun

For many people, dogs are family members, not just pets. That makes it especially difficult when a city begins enforcing rules that could leave some dogs effectively confined to their homes. Hangzhou's regulations have led to discussion about fairness and practical solutions, with the goal of balancing the needs of residents, dog owners and the four-legged family members themselves. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun

China's outdoor adventure boom is reshaping how people spend their free time, from weekend cycling groups and hiking trails to marathon runners chasing personal bests. That surge in demand is fueling a massive commercial opportunity across high-tech gear, tourism and sporting events. The industry now faces the challenge of sustaining growth while preserving the people, places and natural environments that make these activities possible. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun

Hundreds of yuan for a desk buddy that won't lift a finger to help you sounds like a bad deal. No chores, no career advice, just the occasional funny noise. Yet an entire generation seems to think otherwise. China's booming market for AI companions is built on charm over brainpower, and the companies behind it are betting that connection matters more than capability. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan