Philippines Urges Swift PJEPA Review to Bolster Market Access
The Philippines is actively pushing for an expedited conclusion to the ongoing review of the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (PJEPA), emphasizing the need for improved market access, particularly for bananas. Trade Undersecretary Allan Gepty highlighted the urgency of accelerating the review process and addressing pending issues during negotiations with Japan. A key focus of the Philippines is to enhance market access for bananas by reducing tariffs. The Department of Agriculture is collaborating with the Department of Trade and Industry to secure preferential tariff rates, given the rising competition from other countries. The negotiation timeline depends on the shared ambitions of both nations, with the Philippines urging a swift resolution.
Junior Doctors in England Announce Historic Strike During Christmas Period
In a historic move, England’s junior doctors have announced a prolonged strike over the Christmas season, escalating a year-long dispute over pay amid a national cost of living crisis. The British Medical Association (BMA) confirmed the unprecedented action, with strikes planned from December 20 to 23 and January 3 to 9. Despite the government offering a 3.0% average pay rise, junior doctors argue it falls short amid soaring inflation. The decision to strike during the busiest time of the year has raised concerns about its potential impact on NHS services. The move reflects a broader trend of UK workers resorting to industrial action amid economic challenges.
Philippines Denies Illegal Entry Into Chinese-Controlled Waters
Tensions in the South China Sea continue to simmer as the Philippines denies allegations of illegal entry into Chinese-controlled waters. The Philippines’ steadfast response highlights the persistent disputes over territorial claims in the region. The South China Sea has long been a flashpoint, with multiple nations vying for control of its islands, reefs, and maritime resources. The 2016 Arbitral Ruling invalidated China’s expansive claims, but Beijing has adamantly rejected the decision, exacerbating the conflict. The situation carries significant implications for regional stability, maritime security, and global trade routes, making it a matter of international concern.
Jordan’s Economic Resilience in the Face of Global Challenges
Jordan’s recent governmental forum on the shores of the Dead Sea highlighted the nation’s financial resilience in a turbulent global economy. Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Zina Touqan emphasized the importance of global economic trends in shaping Jordan’s fiscal strategies. The forum underlined the urgent need to fund the Jordanian response plan to the Syrian refugee crisis, with only 9 percent of requirements being met so far.
Consortium of Chinese Banks Agree to Fund Port Terminal in Peru
A consortium of Chinese banks have agreed to lend $975 million for the construction and development of the Chancay Multipurpose Port Terminal, located 67 km north of Lima in Peru.
Credit Suisse scrambles to finalise revamp as deadline looms
Credit Suisse is racing to firm up sales of part of its business that could limit the cash it needs from investors, a person with direct knowledge of the matter said, with just days to go before the bank unveils an overhaul.
Analysis: Europe Inc’s wage hikes alarm investors as worries about recession grow
Plans by European companies to hike wages and pay one-off bonuses to help staff cope with a torrid winter are raising alarm among investors concerned that the extra cost could hurt profits and undermine the region’s economy.
Ukraine economy could grow by 15.5% in 2023 after deep fall – minister
Ukraine’s economy should stabilise over the coming year and expand by as much as 15.5% in 2023, depending on military developments in the war against Russia that began on Feb. 24, the country’s economy minister told Reuters in an interview.
Explainer: How will Rogers’ C$20 bln contested bid for Shaw play out
Rogers Communications (RCIb.TO) faces a tough antitrust regulator and a July 31 deadline to close its C$20 billion ($15.5 billion) acquisition of Calgary-based Shaw Communications (SJRb.TO).
Explainer: How the World Health Organization might face future pandemics
Negotiations on new rules for dealing with pandemics will begin at the World Health Organization on Thursday, with a target date of May 2024 for a treaty to be adopted by the U.N. health agency’s 194 member countries.
