China’s state-owned plane maker, Comac, is making moves to buy a big chunk of Laos’ national airline. If the deal goes through, Comac would help turn around the struggling Lao Airlines—but there’s a catch: the airline would have to start using Comac’s jets. It’s part of China’s broader play to grow its aviation footprint in Southeast Asia, where it’s been steadily expanding influence.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about one airline deal—it’s a glimpse into how China is using business partnerships to push its homegrown aviation tech onto the global stage. For Laos, it could mean a lifeline for its cash-strapped carrier, but it also ties the country closer to Chinese manufacturing. For the rest of the world, it’s another sign that China’s not just selling cheap goods anymore—it’s selling big-ticket industrial muscle.