Author Archive

News, Trade Finance

September 8, 2023

The gap in global trade finance has broadened to an unprecedented $2.5 trillion in 2022, a marked increase from $1.7 trillion in 2020. This development comes as a result of surging interest rates, uncertain economic outlooks, inflation, and geopolitical instability, which have inhibited banks’ capacity to facilitate trade financing, according to the 2023 Trade Finance […]

Digital Trade, News, United Kingdom

September 8, 2023

A recent webinar conducted by the Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE&IT) has revealed that approximately 75% of businesses believe the forthcoming UK Electronic Trade Documents Act (ETDA) will positively impact their operations. The legislation is slated for implementation later this month. Digital Economy and Technology Minister Paul Scully has projected that the ETDA […]

Foreign Investments, India, News

September 8, 2023

India is contemplating changes to its investment policies to encourage foreign inflows into its manufacturing and industrial sectors, according to sources within the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). These changes are expected to be part of the ongoing discussions for Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). A Shift in Policy The proposed modifications […]

News, Trade Finance

September 8, 2023

According to a recent survey by the Asian Development Bank, the global trade finance deficit reached an unprecedented $2.5 trillion in 2022, increasing from $1.7 trillion in 2020. The surge in the deficit is attributed to various factors, including rising interest rates, economic uncertainty, inflation, and geopolitical volatility, all of which have constrained banks’ capacity […]

Maritime Trade, News

September 8, 2023

The International Trade Council acknowledges the recent signing of the United Nations Convention on the International Effects of Judicial Sales of Ships. The ceremony took place in Beijing, People’s Republic of China, on September 5, 2023. Formulated by the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), the convention, now known as the Beijing Convention […]

Industrial Equipment, News

September 8, 2023

A-Gas was founded in 1993 in Bristol, UK, by founder and pioneer John Rutley, and co-founder John Cooper. Together, they saw opportunities to build a new business that could support the HVACR industry with the transition away from Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Today, as A-Gas celebrates its 30th anniversary, a leading supplier of refrigerants to the heating, ventilation, […]

Indonesia, News, United States

September 7, 2023

The International Trade Council takes note of Indonesia’s recent proposal to initiate discussions on a potential trade agreement for critical minerals with the United States. This significant development emerged during a meeting between Indonesian President Joko Widodo and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings […]

News, Philippines, South Korea

September 7, 2023

The International Trade Council is pleased to recognize the signing of a free trade agreement (FTA) between the Philippines and South Korea during the ASEAN Summit in Indonesia. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced this significant development, emphasizing its potential to strengthen investment relations and create employment opportunities.   President Marcos highlighted that the FTA underscores […]

Agricultural Trade, News, Taiwan

September 7, 2023

In a recent development aimed at alleviating a domestic egg shortage, Taiwan has temporarily opened its market to eggs and egg products from 12 countries, including Australia. This move is in response to supply constraints in Taiwan attributed to unpredictable weather, escalating feed costs, and recent outbreaks of avian influenza. The newly implemented market access […]

International Trade, News

September 7, 2023

The International Trade Council acknowledges the recent expansion of the BRICS group to potentially include Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Egypt, Argentina, and Ethiopia. According to a note from S&P Global Ratings, the near-term economic impact for member countries is anticipated to be limited.   S&P Global Ratings explains that their current sovereign […]

Canada, News, Trade Agreements

September 6, 2023

The International Trade Council acknowledges Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau’s announcement regarding the expectation to finalize a free trade agreement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This development follows the formal launch of the Canada-ASEAN strategic partnership, which was a focal point of discussion during the ASEAN-Canada summit held in Jakarta.   Prime […]

News, Trade Agreements

September 6, 2023

President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s recent address at the centenary celebration of Al Mubarak Central College in Malwana has unveiled an ambitious economic vision for Sri Lanka’s future.   President Wickremesinghe outlined a strategy to replicate the successful Biyagama Free Trade Zone model on a national scale, with the goal of fostering rapid development over the next […]

The International Trade Council warmly welcomes the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the United Kingdom and Australia, a landmark deal set to boost fintech sectors in both nations by removing over 99% of tariffs and enhancing labor mobility.   Signed in December 2021, this comprehensive agreement will not only facilitate work and travel opportunities but […]

The International Trade Council welcomes the significant milestone of the first shipment of raw sugar from Australia to the United Kingdom under the newly established free trade agreement between the two nations. This historic trade event marks the reopening of a valuable market for Australian sugar suppliers and underscores the positive impact of international trade […]

Africa, China, News, Trade Agreements

September 5, 2023

In recent data released by the Chinese General Administration of Customs, it has been revealed that China’s imports and exports with fellow BRICS members experienced notable growth of 19.1% year-on-year, reaching ¥2.38 trillion (approximately US$330.62 billion) between January and July 2023. The BRICS, comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, have collectively strengthened […]

Bahrain, Middle East, News, Trade Agreements

September 4, 2023

Israeli Foreign Minister, Eli Cohen, recently visited Bahrain and explored the possibility of signing a free trade agreement with the Gulf nation. The International Trade Council acknowledges these diplomatic discussions, aimed at fostering economic cooperation and enhancing regional stability.   During his official visit to Bahrain, Minister Cohen was accompanied by a business delegation representing […]