Archive for the ‘News’ Category

As February came to a close, forecasts indicated that Indonesia’s trade surplus had expanded slightly, bolstered by a moderated decline in exports and a surge in imports in anticipation of Ramadan, according to a Reuters poll conducted from March 7-14.   Insights from 20 economists projected a trade surplus of $2.32 billion for February, up […]

Economic Development, News

March 13, 2024

Korea experienced a significant boost in employment in February, adding nearly 330,000 new jobs, largely driven by increased opportunities for senior workers and expansion in the manufacturing sector amidst a rise in exports.   According to data released by Statistics Korea on Wednesday, the country recorded a total of 28.04 million employed individuals, marking a […]

News, Vietnam

March 12, 2024

The Philippines has experienced a significant increase in rice imports during the first two months of 2024, according to data from the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI).   Rice imports for January and February totaled 728,254.49 metric tons (MT), representing an 84.57 percent surge compared to the same period last year when […]

In a recent statement, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized Thailand’s potential to benefit significantly from the United States’ strategic move to diversify semiconductor production. Raimondo highlighted the readiness of American firms to amplify investments in the Southeast Asian nation, foreseeing promising prospects ahead.   The electrical and electronics industry stands as a pivotal sector […]

In a significant development, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has successfully secured funds worth up to €137 billion from the European Union, marking a pivotal moment for Poland’s economic trajectory. This infusion of funds signifies the end of years-long tensions with Brussels over democratic standards, heralding a new era of economic growth for Central Europe’s […]

President Ferdinand ”Bongbong” Marcos Jr. highlighted the pivotal role of Germany’s support as negotiations for a free trade agreement between the Philippines and the European Union prepare to resume.   ”Germany’s support is vital to the country’s reapplication to the EU’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) and for the resumption of negotiations for a […]

In a bid to secure stable, long-term supplies of liquefied natural gas (LNG), resource-scarce Japan has deepened its partnerships with close allies Australia and the United States. This strategic move comes as key contracts from various providers are set to expire by the early 2030s. Last month, JERA, Japan’s leading power generator, finalized an agreement […]

News, Trade Relations

March 9, 2024

In a promising update, Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell announced significant progress in addressing trade barriers imposed by China on Australian wine and lobster. Farrell expressed optimism as China nears completion of its review into tariffs on Australian wine, with expectations for a resolution by the end of March. Additionally, China is reassessing restrictions on […]

India, News, Trade Agreements

March 9, 2024

In a landmark move set to reshape international trade dynamics, India is poised to finalize an economic pact with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) on Sunday. This agreement, involving Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, marks the culmination of nearly sixteen years of meticulous negotiations, promising to significantly enhance trade and investment flows.   With […]

In a significant step towards bolstering regional trade relations, the Philippines has signed the second protocol to the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA).   President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in his address during the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit Leader’s Plenary Session, expressed confidence in the agreement’s potential to bolster the region’s economy and support micro, small, […]

In a pivotal decision on Friday, the Swiss government has green-lighted the initiation of discussions with the European Union, aiming to rejuvenate the nation’s ties with the bloc. This move comes as a significant step forward after the disintegration of a former agreement attempt in 2021. Switzerland’s strategy emphasizes the vital importance of unfettered access […]

International Trade, News

March 7, 2024

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has announced the commencement of the application process for its 2025 Young Professionals Programme (YPP). Individuals up to the age of 32 as of January 1, 2025, hailing from eligible developing economies and least-developed countries (LDCs), are encouraged to submit their applications by April 2, 2024.   Selected candidates will […]