Laura Bicker

Anthony Zurcher, a Senior North America correspondent, dissects the political landscape around Trump's potential return. Asma Khalid shares insights on electoral risks for Republicans and the internal debates within the Democratic Party. Faisal Islam examines the economic implications of new tariffs and the rise of AI in the market. Laura Bicker reports on China's tech ambitions and the ongoing Taiwan tensions. Meanwhile, Lyse Doucet highlights fragile peace prospects in Ukraine and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

Laura Bicker, BBC's China correspondent and expert on rare earth mining, shares her firsthand insights from crucial mining hubs in China. She discusses the rising demand for rare earths, deemed vital for renewable energy, while revealing the environmental costs tied to their extraction. Laura highlights the dichotomy between economic benefits and ecological damage, shedding light on China's dominance in this arena. The conversation also touches on the implications for global competition in rare earth minerals and a mysterious climate satellite that's gone missing!

Laura Bicker, BBC China correspondent in Beijing, provides context on the PM’s China visit and recent shifts in the country’s military leadership. Joe Pike, BBC political correspondent, unpacks local by-election dynamics and leasehold reform impacts. Simon Jack, BBC Business Editor, explains the Treasury’s targeted support for pubs and the business rates reversal. Short, punchy conversations on politics, trade ties and pub relief.

Laura Bicker, BBC China correspondent, brings her insights from Beijing, while Mariko Oi, host of Asia Specific, adds her expertise on regional dynamics. They dive into China's ambitious military and technological advancements, exploring the implications of Xi Jinping's consolidation of power. The discussion touches on the Belt and Road initiative, contrasting how China's neighbors perceive its growing influence, and the potential risks surrounding Taiwan. They also analyze the lasting impact of Trump's presidency on US-China relations, shaping the future of global power.

Ione Wells, a South America correspondent for BBC News, and Laura Bicker, BBC’s senior China correspondent, dive deep into urgent climate issues. They discuss Brazil's slowed efforts to reduce Amazon deforestation and the alarming implications of proposed oil drilling in the region. Meanwhile, Bicker highlights China's ambitious hydropower project, which promises renewable energy but raises environmental concerns and regional tensions. Their insights uncover the complex interplay between economic growth and urgent ecological needs in two pivotal countries.

In this engaging discussion, Laura Bicker, a BBC China correspondent known for her keen insights into environmental issues, shares her firsthand experiences at China's rare earth mining sites. She reveals how these crucial minerals, found in everyday technology, pose severe environmental threats due to their extraction processes. Bicker delves into the alarming pollution levels, the toxic waste produced, and the health risks faced by local communities. Listeners gain a clearer understanding of how vital yet harmful these 'rare' resources can be.

William Dunbar, journalist on Georgian archaeological digs and a political purge; Laura Bicker, Beijing correspondent on China's cautious Middle East stance; Leila Malana Allen, British–Iranian commentator on muted Nowruz; Carine Torbey, Beirut reporter on renewed Lebanese violence; Will Grant, Havana correspondent on Cuba's blackouts and healthcare strain. They discuss blackouts, wartime trauma, China’s calculations, cultural resistance, and ancient human finds.

Chris Mason, BBC political reporter on the PM’s road trip; Laura Bicker, BBC China correspondent in Beijing and Shanghai; Darshini David, BBC deputy economics editor. They recount the Beijing meeting’s tone and ceremonies. They cover the visa-free travel announcement and what deals actually materialised. They explore China’s step-by-step approach, trade prospects in services and the geopolitics of balancing ties.

Lyse Doucet, a Senior BBC correspondent, shares poignant stories from Ghouta, highlighting efforts to rebuild homes and lives in the aftermath of war. Laura Bicker sheds light on China's ambitious tech and military advancements, alongside its domestic challenges impacting public confidence. Tom Bateman explores shifting sentiments among Republican voters regarding Trump's policies. Hester Underhill reports on the devastating sheeppox outbreak in Greece affecting farmers, while Justin Rowlatt provides insights on Amazon deforestation and the soy moratorium's risks.

Laura Bicker, BBC China correspondent and investigative reporter, shares her eye-opening findings from Guangzhou factories supplying Shein, the fast-fashion giant. She discusses the controversies surrounding Shein's Paris store protests and the brand's viral success on social media. Bicker reveals shocking labor practices, including low pay and allegations of child labor, and explains how Shein’s rapid production model contrasts with traditional retailers. The conversation ends with a reflection on the future of Shein amid growing scrutiny and demands for transparency.