Mega LNG vessel under construction

Construction has commenced on an ultra-large liquefied natural gas carrier with a capacity of 271,000 cubic meters, underscoring China's growing strength in high-end shipbuilding and global energy logistics. The vessel, built by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co Ltd, is scheduled for delivery in 2028. Measuring 344 meters in length, the mega-ship will feature an upgraded membrane containment system designed to maximize cargo capacity, enhance safety, and improve environmental efficiency.

Yuan strengthens against greenback

The central parity rate of the Chinese currency renminbi, or the yuan, strengthened 41 pips to 6.8109 against the US dollar on Friday, according to the China Foreign Exchange Trade System. In China's spot foreign exchange market, the yuan is allowed to rise or fall by 2 percent from the central parity rate each trading day. The central parity rate of the yuan against the US dollar is based on a weighted average of prices offered by market makers before the opening of the interbank market each business day.

Chinese mainland shares close higher

Chinese mainland stocks closed higher on Friday, with the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index up 1.12 percent to 4031.51 points. The Shenzhen Component Index closed 0.75 percent higher at 14963.41 points.

XINHUA — CHINA DAILY