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Archive for the ‘News’ Category

Digital Trade, News

March 7, 2024

In a compelling address at the “Women in Trade” event in London on March 7, Deputy Director-General Johanna Hill of the World Trade Organization (WTO) shed light on the transformative impact digital trade and services sector can have on women’s socio-economic status. The event, hosted by Trade Finance Global, became a platform for advocating the […]

China, Global Trade, News

March 7, 2024

China kicks off the year 2024 on a high note as it reports a remarkable 7.1% increase in exports for the first two months, surpassing expectations and fueling optimistic forecasts despite lingering challenges in the global economy.   The surge in exports, reaching US$528 billion, has outpaced predictions, signaling resilience in China’s trade sector amidst […]

China has unveiled a groundbreaking visa-free travel initiative, set to catalyze trade relations with six nations. Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced the move on March 14, extending the privilege to citizens of Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Australia, Belgium, and Luxembourg.   This strategic decision not only promotes tourism but also lays the groundwork for enhanced trade […]

In a significant diplomatic move, Australia and Vietnam have announced an upgrade in their bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This development, revealed by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday, includes the commencement of annual discussions on minerals, underscoring efforts to diversify supply chains away from China.   The enhanced partnership signifies a […]

News, Trade Relations, Vietnam

March 6, 2024

Vietnam, under the leadership of Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, continues to bolster its international standing through strategic diplomacy, termed “bamboo diplomacy,” with recent successes including upgraded ties with major global players.   In the latest development, Vietnam elevated its relationship with Australia, marking another milestone in its diplomatic outreach. This achievement comes […]

International Trade, Japan, News

March 6, 2024

In a commitment to bolster inclusive global trade, Japan pledges EUR 115,000 (about CHF 108,000) to the WTO’s Global Trust Fund for 2024, aiming to support training programs for government officials from developing economies and least-developed countries (LDCs).   This contribution underscores Japan’s dedication to enhancing the trade-related capabilities of developing nations, enabling them to […]

Australia has announced plans to establish a significant finance facility worth A$2 billion ($1.3 billion) aimed at boosting trade and investment in Southeast Asia, demonstrating its commitment to strengthening ties with the ASEAN bloc, which stands as the country’s second-largest two-way trading partner.   Treasurer Jim Chalmers emphasized the importance of the region, stating, “Our […]

In a recent development, the Indian government has amended its ban on onion exports, allowing the shipment of 64,400 tonnes to the UAE and Bangladesh. A senior official from the federal ministry of commerce confirmed this decision, stating that it was made at the “request of friendly countries.”   The ban on onion exports was […]

Australia, Energy Trade, News, Vietnam

March 5, 2024

Vietnam and Australia are poised to enhance their collaboration in the energy and mineral sectors with the upcoming signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU), announced the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade during Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s visit to Melbourne.   The MOU aims to bolster cooperation between the two nations in energy […]

Australia, Malaysia, News

March 5, 2024

Malaysia Anticipates $5 Billion Investment from Australian Companies. Malaysia is poised to welcome investments totaling up to 24.5 billion ringgit ($5.17 billion) from Australian firms, according to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, as reported by state news agency Bernama on Wednesday.   Leading the investment charge are Australian data center operators AirTrunk and NextDC, with plans […]

Europe, Geopolitics, News

March 5, 2024

Top European Union officials unveiled plans on Tuesday to enhance collaboration within the continent’s defense industry, citing the need for increased joint procurement of weapons among member countries. The European Commission, the EU’s executive body, proposed allocating 1.5 billion euros ($1.63 billion) to incentivize collective purchases from European firms and foster the development of new […]

International Relations, News

March 5, 2024

Government officials from WTO member countries and observer nations eligible for technical assistance are encouraged to apply for the 2024 Advanced Global Workshop on the Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA) 2012. Scheduled from April 29 to May 3, 2024, the workshop aims to enhance participants’ understanding of key issues related to government procurement, international trade, […]