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EU may struggle to enforce social standards via trade

Location:

EU

In 2020 the European Commission appointed a Chief Trade Enforcement Officer for the first time, signalling that Brussels is intent on enhancing its capacity to enforce standards…

US-Thai military and trade links could cool

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US/THAILAND

US-Thailand relations.

Tough economic challenges await Taiwan president-elect

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TAIWAN

The election in January of Lai Ching-te as president signalled continuity in economic policy, and economic pressure from Beijing has to date had limited effect. However, Lai faces…

North Korea will not reopen fully post-pandemic

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NORTH KOREA

Pyongyang has yet to announce any formal reopening, and probably never will. However, several indicators show that cross-border personnel movements are finally resuming, including…

Prospects for South-east Asia in 2021

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PROSPECTS 2021

All are aiming to revive economies badly hit by the pandemic’s fallout. The ten ASEAN states and five of the bloc’s dialogue partners recently signed a Regional Comprehensive…

Digital trade will help spur Singapore economy

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SINGAPORE

The government is urging local companies to adopt digital solutions to meet the challenges of the post-pandemic period. Meanwhile, it has tightened regulations on hiring of…

Vietnam hopes foreign investors can kick-start economy

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VIETNAM

The government targets 3.0-3.5% GDP growth this year, up from 2.9% in 2020 and despite a nearly 6.2% year-on-year contraction in July-September. A key factor in the fall was the…

Mexico nearshoring gains may fall short of potential

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MEXICO

Mexico, with its long US border and relatively low wages, is well-placed to take advantage of this trend, and is doing so to some extent, but several factors are weighing on its…

South Korea’s ties with key countries will worsen

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SOUTH KOREA

South Korea's international relationships.

Australian PM challenge will hinder policy agenda

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AUSTRALIA

Although a victory in the short term for Abbott, the narrow margin will only intensify doubts about his long-term prospects as party leader and as prime minister. The challenge…