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Alibaba taps into China’s ‘chat to buy’ trend via Qwen AI and Taobao integration
Tech
5/11/2026

Alibaba taps into China’s ‘chat to buy’ trend via Qwen AI and Taobao integration

Alibaba Group Holding is integrating its flagship AI assistant Qwen into its biggest e-commerce platforms, betting that the future of online shopping lies in fluid conversations rather than rigid search terms. Using the Qwen app, shoppers are able to find, compare and purchase products from Taobao and Tmall’s 4-billion-item inventory via text or voice chat, Alibaba said in a statement on Monday. Taobao has also launched a Qwen-powered shopping assistant, which was trained on the platform’s...

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SCMP Tech
Belgium's Liege Airport Overwhelmed by 4 Million Daily Parcels From China
Developing
Business·4/25/2026AI summary

Belgium's Liege Airport Overwhelmed by 4 Million Daily Parcels From China

More than 4 million small parcels from China arrive daily at Liege Airport in Belgium, overwhelming a customs team of just 80 officers. Belgium's top customs official Kristian Vanderwaeren says the surge, linked to Trump's return and new fees in Italy and France, is straining capacity. Thirty percent of inspected parcels violate EU standards, with cosmetics at 100% infringement rate.

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SCMP News
Independent bookstores make quiet comeback as big chains dominate retail
NEWS
4/19/2026

Independent bookstores make quiet comeback as big chains dominate retail

About 422 indie bookshops opened in 2025, up 31%, defying predictions of retail consolidationFor years now, we have heard that Amazon and the big chains are crushing small businesses, but independent bookstores are suddenly making a comeback.About 422 new indie bookshops opened in 2025, according to the American Booksellers Association, a 31% rise from 2024. Countless independent restaurants, coffee shops, fitness centers, movie theaters, clothing stores and other small businesses also continue to thrive even in this era of ever-bigger retailers, fast-casual restaurants and massive e-commerce platforms. Continue reading...

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Guardian Business