Author Archive

Taiwan’s President-elect, Lai Ching-te, has conveyed his keenness for Taipei to become part of the U.S.-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, citing the island’s pivotal role in the global economy.   Taiwan was initially excluded from the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework by the United States in 2022, as part of the Biden administration’s efforts to counter what it […]

International Relations, News

January 24, 2024

French President Emmanuel Macron will be the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations, underscoring the deepening ties between the two nations. The visit comes amid ongoing negotiations for significant defense deals, including the purchase of French fighter jets and submarines by the Indian military.   While the visit is expected to be ceremonial in […]

Portugal has demonstrated its commitment to supporting sustainable fisheries practices by donating EUR 50,000 (approximately CHF 48,000) to the WTO Fisheries Funding Mechanism. Ambassador Rui Macieira presented this contribution to WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on January 24.   Director-General Okonjo-Iweala expressed her gratitude for Portugal’s donation and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting […]

China, International Trade, Japan, News

January 24, 2024

In a positive turn of events, Japan’s exports witnessed a remarkable surge of nearly 10% in December compared to the previous year. This substantial growth was attributed to a revival in trade with China and a robust demand for vehicles, machinery, and computer chips.   Preliminary customs data released on Wednesday revealed a notable trade […]

Europe, International Trade, News

January 24, 2024

The European Commission has introduced changes to the frequency of inspections for various imported food products, signaling a nuanced approach to safety measures. The revised legislation, which governs official controls and special conditions for non-animal origin food and feed entering Europe, undergoes adjustments every six months.   Informed by data from the Rapid Alert System […]

International Trade, News, South Korea

January 24, 2024

In a significant milestone, South Korean water purifiers achieved record-breaking exports in 2023, propelled by their exceptional quality, design, and service. With a growing global demand for clean and healthy water, Korean water purifiers are poised to accelerate their expansion into international markets.   Data from the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) revealed that South […]

Germany, International Trade, News, Vietnam

January 23, 2024

A prominent German business delegation, featuring key players in tunnel machines, wind farms, and industrial supplies, is accompanying President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on a visit to Vietnam starting Tuesday. This visit aligns with Berlin’s strategy to diversify economic ties, emphasizing Vietnam’s significance as a partner to broaden activities beyond China. German companies have already invested over […]

Vietnamese businesses are encouraged to explore the promising potential of seafood exports to Switzerland, a key trade official has emphasized.   Nguyen Duc Thuong, the Commercial Counsellor at Vietnam Trade Office in Switzerland, highlighted the significant opportunity for Vietnamese seafood exporters in Switzerland, a landlocked country heavily reliant on seafood imports. Vietnam currently stands as […]

India, News, Technology

January 23, 2024

India is experiencing remarkable growth in electronics exports, primarily driven by increased production and exports from major smartphone manufacturers. According to data from the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), electronics exports from India reached a record high of over $20 billion in the first nine months of fiscal 2024 (April 2023 to March 2024), […]

Europe, News, Trade Policy

January 23, 2024

In an effort to bolster the economic resilience of the European Union, the European Commission is set to reveal comprehensive plans that highlight increased scrutiny of foreign investments and stricter controls on exports and technology outflows, with a particular focus on rivals like China. The EU executive will present an extensive document for discussion, accompanied […]

Agricultural Trade, News, Philippines

January 23, 2024

  In a potential shake-up of global banana export rankings, preliminary findings from the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) indicate that Guatemala may have overtaken the Philippines in 2023. The Philippines, holding the second position for six consecutive years, faces a possible dip in its standing.   According to early data from the […]

Europe, International Trade, News

January 22, 2024

In a groundbreaking development, the European Union’s 6-billion-euro growth plan for the Western Balkans is being hailed as a potential game-changer that could lead to a doubling of regional economies in the coming decade, according to an EU official. Leaders from the six Western Balkan countries, including Albania, Bosnia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, […]

In a groundbreaking economic development, Sri Lanka and Thailand are gearing up to ink a transformative Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on February 3rd, signaling a strategic move poised to elevate bilateral trade to an impressive US$ 1.5 billion. The signing ceremony, graced by the visit of Thailand’s Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, is anticipated to strengthen […]