Archive for the ‘News’ Category

Economic Security, Europe, News

January 19, 2024

In a strategic move to bolster economic security, the European Commission is set to unveil a proposal next week, outlining a law that mandates all EU member countries to conduct comprehensive scrutiny of foreign investments to assess potential security risks, according to a document seen by Reuters.   Since 2020, EU nations with existing national […]

Indonesia, International Trade, News

January 16, 2024

In a twist of events, Indonesia’s trade dynamics defied expectations in December, revealing a notable trade surplus driven by an unexpected drop in imports. While export figures declined by 5.8% year-on-year (YoY), the real surprise came from a 3.8% YoY contraction in imports, in stark contrast to the anticipated 0.2% gain.   The decline in […]

China, International Trade, News

January 15, 2024

In a strategic move to enhance diplomatic relations, Irakli Kobakhidze, the leader of Georgia’s ruling party and chairman of the governing Georgian Dream bloc, embarked on a six-day visit to China on Monday. Initial reports from Georgian media highlighted his significant meeting with the head of the Chinese Communist Party’s International Department.   Kobakhidze stressed […]

Economic Development, News

January 15, 2024

In a notable economic update, President Maduro announced that Venezuela’s economy, which experienced a 5% growth in 2023, is set to reach an impressive 8% this year. This positive outlook comes amidst the country’s prolonged economic challenges, including triple-digit inflation and a significant emigration of millions seeking better opportunities abroad.   Although Venezuela’s inflation rate […]

Agricultural Trade, Europe, News

January 15, 2024

In a recent development, agricultural ministers from Bulgaria, Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia, representing the European Union’s eastern states, have jointly requested the EU to consider imposing import duties on Ukraine’s grains. Citing concerns over unfair competition, the ministers, including Hungary’s Farm Minister Istvan Nagy, underscored the impact of cheaper Ukrainian agricultural products on their […]

In a notable effort to strengthen their partnership, China and Switzerland have formalized a joint declaration, signifying a mutual commitment to deepen collaboration. Premier Li Qiang, the most senior Chinese official to visit Switzerland since President Xi Jinping’s 2017 trip, engaged in discussions with Swiss President Viola Amherd and a distinguished Chinese delegation ahead of […]

In a significant diplomatic stride, China and Switzerland have expedited discussions to enhance their e   On Monday, Bern and Beijing reached a consensus to promptly initiate formal negotiations aimed at expanding their free trade agreement, which has been in effect since 2013. Notably, China has also committed to granting visa-free entry for Swiss citizens, […]

Automotive Industry, China, News

January 14, 2024

In a groundbreaking development, the Chinese car industry is poised to surpass Japan and emerge as the world’s largest auto exporter, according to the Chinese Passenger Car Association (CPCA). The CPCA reveals that prominent automakers like BYD Auto and Chery are experiencing a surge in overseas sales, contributing to a remarkable 62% increase in Chinese […]

Agricultural Trade, News, Vietnam

January 14, 2024

In a remarkable achievement, Vietnam’s rice exports have reached unprecedented levels, surging to 8.13 million tons and valued at US$4.7 billion in 2023, according to the General Department of Customs. This outstanding performance not only signifies a substantial 14.4% increase in volume but also reflects a remarkable 35.3% rise in value compared to the previous […]

China, Egypt, International Relations, News

January 14, 2024

In a joint statement released on Sunday, Egypt and China underscored their commitment to closely monitoring developments in the Red Sea with a primary focus on ensuring the safety and security of navigation. The joint declaration highlighted both nations’ shared concerns regarding the expanding conflict in the region and emphasized the crucial need to address […]

International Relations, News, Taiwan

January 13, 2024

In a proactive move, Guatemala’s President-elect, Bernardo Arevalo, engaged in discussions with Taiwan’s Foreign Minister, Joseph Wu, signaling a commitment to strengthen commercial ties between the two nations. The meeting, held in anticipation of Arevalo and Vice President-elect Karin Herrera’s inauguration on Sunday, focused on fostering economic collaboration.   While Arevalo has expressed an intention […]

News, Philippines, Trade Agreements

January 13, 2024

In a forward-looking approach, the Philippines is actively pursuing a strategic partnership with Korea this year, building on the historic Philippines-Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed last year. With the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations approaching, both nations are keen on elevating collaboration in various sectors, according to the Philippine Ambassador to Korea, Maria Theresa […]

Agricultural Trade, China, News

January 12, 2024

China’s domestic citrus production is on an upward trajectory, fueled by favorable weather conditions and successful replanting efforts that have addressed previous challenges such as citrus greening disease. According to a recent USDA report, the country’s citrus sector is poised for continued growth in the 2023/24 period (12 months to October 31, 2024).   The […]

China, International Trade, News

January 12, 2024

China’s annual imports of crude oil reached an unprecedented high in 2023, marking a significant recovery in fuel demand from the post-pandemic decline. According to data from the General Administration of Customs (GACC), China imported 563.99 million metric tonnes of oil last year, equivalent to an average of 11.28 million barrels per day, representing an […]