Archive for the ‘News’ Category

Economic Development, News, Taiwan

January 29, 2024

Taiwan’s trade-dependent economy is anticipated to have experienced accelerated growth in the fourth quarter of the year, largely attributed to robust domestic consumption and a resurgence in exports, according to a recent Reuters poll of 22 economists.   Gross domestic product (GDP) for the October-December period is expected to have expanded by approximately 4.35% compared […]

In a significant step towards bolstering their defense cooperation, the Philippines and Canada formally signed a memorandum of understanding on Friday, with Manila’s defense minister expressing optimism that this agreement could pave the way for a troop pact between the two nations.   Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro highlighted the strong intention on both sides to […]

India and France have solidified their commitment to collaborate on joint defense production, encompassing helicopters, submarines, and more, both for the Indian armed forces and friendly nations, according to a government statement issued following French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit.   President Macron’s visit included meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and attendance at a state […]

Fifteen U.S. companies, including semiconductor firms, have expressed keen interest in investing a substantial $8 billion in Vietnam’s clean energy infrastructure. However, this investment is contingent on Vietnam’s progress in implementing renewable energy regulations, as revealed by a senior U.S. official during a press briefing in Hanoi.   Vietnam has been actively seeking to attract […]

International Relations, News

January 26, 2024

Cabo Verde, an ocean state with a substantial maritime area, has officially deposited its instrument of acceptance for the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies on January 26th. Ambassador Clara Manuela da Luz Delgado Jesus presented Cabo Verde’s acceptance to Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. The Agreement is seen as crucial for Cabo Verde, as 80% of its population […]

Indonesia, International Trade, Japan, News

January 25, 2024

Japan and Indonesia have reached an agreement to remove trade barriers and enhance cooperation across various sectors, as announced by Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.   This development follows a bilateral meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Indonesian President Joko Widodo in Tokyo on December 16, 2023, during which the two leaders discussed […]

Europe, International Trade, News

January 25, 2024

The European Commission has taken a significant step in promoting transparency in dual-use export controls by publishing new Guidelines on data gathering and processing for export controls. This development follows the recent release of the Commission’s White Paper on export controls, which emphasizes the importance of fully implementing the EU’s dual-use regulation.   On January […]

Austria has demonstrated its commitment to supporting developing economies’ engagement in international trade by contributing EUR 200,000 (approximately CHF 190,000) to the Global Trust Fund in 2024. This financial contribution is aimed at facilitating greater participation and expertise in global trade for developing nations. A significant portion of this funding will be directed towards the […]

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 […]