Japan’s 2022 amendment to the Act on Promotion of Transparency in Public Procurement marked a significant shift toward ensuring accountability and sustainability in the construction sector. Effective from April 2023, the amendment introduced new requirements for the disclosure of sources of construction materials in all public works projects. This reform was driven by increasing public […]
In a bid to strengthen trade ties, New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, intends to embark on a visit to China in the near future, following discussions with China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, during his recent visit to New Zealand. Luxon, accompanied by Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Trade Minister Todd McClay, held discussions […]
In a bid to foster deeper insights into trade dynamics, Australian business leaders are gearing up to engage in discussions with China’s Foreign Minister during his visit to Canberra. Organized by the Australia China Business Council (ACBC), the meeting aims to bridge the gap in understanding between Australian businesses and their largest trading partner. […]
Industry analysts suggest that Korean shipbuilders are set to capitalize on the latest developments in the ongoing strategic competition between the United States and China, presenting an opportunity for increased market share on a global scale. Following a positive response from the Joe Biden administration to a petition filed by five U.S. unions urging […]
In a significant development for trade relations between China and Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced plans to discuss the removal of Chinese tariffs on Australian wine during an upcoming meeting with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The meeting is scheduled to take place in Canberra next week. Albanese’s proactive approach underscores the […]
Representatives from various countries participating in the joint initiative on e-commerce at the WTO have reached an important milestone in negotiations, as indicated by the recent progress made during the second round of talks held from 11 to 14 March. Jeremy Green, Deputy Permanent Representative to the WTO, speaking on behalf of Ambassador James […]
In a significant development for the supply chain sector, Swiss President Viola Amherd is set to convene with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels on Monday. The agenda? Propelling talks forward to revamp the bilateral ties between Switzerland and the European Union, as confirmed by the Swiss government. Central to this […]
In an announcement made on Thursday, both the United Kingdom and Turkey declared their intent to commence negotiations for an enhanced Free Trade Agreement (FTA), encompassing not only goods but also services. While the UK already maintains an FTA with Turkey, inherited post its departure from the European Union in 2020, a joint review […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 move aimed at fostering economic collaboration, Britain is set to sign a memorandum of understanding on trade with Texas, marking the largest state-level agreement between the UK and the United States to date. This pact underscores a concerted effort to stimulate investment and bolster trade relations amidst evolving global dynamics. The […]
In a significant development, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has successfully secured funds worth up to â‚ ¬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 […]
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 […]