Japan finance minister vows stable JGB issuance via dialogue with markets
Japan will issue government bonds (JGBs) worth 215 trillion yen ($1.89 trillion) in the next fiscal year in a stable manner through dialogue with markets, its finance minister said on Monday, after stimulus to offset the impact of COVID-19 saw bonds worth 224 trillion yen issued this year.
Analysis: Pandemic fatigue makes the case for boosters a harder sell
Some nations are already looking to a fourth vaccine dose to help contend with a huge Omicron-driven spike in COVID-19 cases, but early signs suggest repeat vaccination may be a hard sell as beleaguered populations enter their third pandemic year.
Japan to unveil record $943 bln budget draft to ensure post-COVID recovery
Japan’s government is set to unveil its largest annual budget on Friday with $943 billion in spending for the fiscal year beginning next April, further straining the industrial world’s heaviest debt, a draft plan seen by Reuters showed.
Analysis: United States, China tussle over Honduras as it weighs Taiwan ties
A pledge by a leading Honduran presidential candidate to embrace China and de-emphasize Taiwan ties if she wins Sunday’s election has prompted diplomatic jostling between Beijing and Washington as each seeks to exert influence on the Central American nation.
Dutch face three-week, partial lockdown as COVID-19 cases soar
Bars and restaurants will close early and sporting events will be held without audiences under a three-week, partial lockdown that is expected to be announced in the Netherlands on Friday evening.
Global COVID-19 cases hit 250 million, eastern Europe infections at record levels
Global COVID-19 cases surpassed 250 million on Monday as some countries in eastern Europe experience record outbreaks, even as the Delta variant surge eases and many countries resume trade and tourism.
Analysis: Vaccinated Singapore shows zero-COVID countries cost of reopening
Few are left to inoculate in wealthy Singapore after a vigorous campaign achieved a level of coverage envied by many nations battling the coronavirus pandemic, but a record surge in deaths and infections gives warning of risks that may still lie ahead.
China announces three-child policy, in major policy shift
China announced on Monday that each couple would be permitted to have up to three children, a major policy shift from the existing limit of two children after recent data showed a dramatic decline in births in the world’s most populous country. The change was approved during a politburo meeting chaired by President Xi Jinping, […]
Thailand says foreigners to get COVID-19 vaccines amid access concern
Thailand confirmed on Thursday that it plans to include 3 million foreigners living in the country in its mass vaccination programme to protect the entire population, amid concerns over the scope of vaccine access. “Anybody living in Thailand, whether they be Thai or foreign, if they want they vaccine, they can get it,” head of […]
It’s time to get smart with Pacific ports
Harnessing advanced smart port technologies can enhance physical and economic resilience of “lifeline” ports in the Pacific.
