Wameso said the policy also aligns with efforts to comply with anti-money laundering rules and international sanctions , including measures targeting individuals linked to conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. He added that the reforms were important as the country seeks to attract significant foreign investment, Viory reports.

Under the new rules, which took effect on April 9, individuals can still hold foreign currency but must use Congolese francs for cash transactions. Dollars can be deposited into bank accounts and used electronically. The policy is part of efforts to reduce dollarisation, which has persisted since the hyperinflation era of the 1990s.

The central bank said the reforms come amid improving economic indicators , with growth reaching 5.8% in 2025 and projected to rise further, alongside stable inflation and stronger foreign reserves.

Equatorial Guinea is forecast to record the weakest performance, with its economy expected to contract by around 2.7%. The IMF has repeatedly pointed to the country’s heavy reliance on declining oil production as a key factor behind its prolonged downturn, with limited diversification constraining recovery prospects.

Elsewhere, growth is expected to remain subdued rather than negative. Mozambique is projected to expand by just 0.5%, reflecting ongoing fiscal pressures and vulnerability to external shocks. South Africa, the continent’s most industrialised economy, is forecast to grow by only 1.0%, underscoring deep-rooted challenges including energy shortages, logistics constraints and high unemployment. The IMF has flagged these structural issues as major drags on the country’s growth potential.

Lesotho is expected to post growth of about 1.1%, while Seychelles, heavily dependent on tourism, is projected at 1.5%, a pace that reflects a gradual but uneven recovery in global travel demand.

Further along the list, Malawi and Senegal are both forecast to grow by around 2.2%, followed closely by Angola at 2.3% and Namibia at 2.4%. While these figures represent positive growth, they fall well below the regional average and highlight limited economic momentum.

The Central African Republic, projected at 2.6%, rounds out the group of slowest-growing economies, reflecting ongoing fragility linked to conflict, infrastructure gaps and reliance on subsistence sectors.

What stands out is the contrast within the region. While some African economies are expanding rapidly, others are struggling to gain traction. The IMF notes that Sub-Saharan Africa’s overall growth outlook remains uneven, shaped by commodity dependence, debt burdens and exposure to global financial conditions.

Countries reliant on a narrow range of exports, particularly oil, are among the most vulnerable. In Equatorial Guinea and Angola, fluctuations in global energy prices continue to have an outsized impact on economic performance. Meanwhile, economies like South Africa face domestic constraints that limit their ability to capitalise on global demand.

The implications extend beyond headline growth figures. Slower expansion can constrain job creation, reduce fiscal space and limit investment in infrastructure and social services. For many of these countries, sustaining even modest growth will require structural reforms, diversification and improved governance.

Recent export-import data shows India leading the global market with roughly $3.9 billion in spice exports, representing about 37% of the global share. Vietnam follows closely with nearly $3 billion, capturing around 30%, underscoring a duopoly that now controls well over half of global spice exports.

Industry data confirms the trend. India remains the world’s largest producer, consumer and exporter of spices, shipping products to more than 150 countries and generating over $4.7 billion in export value in recent years. Vietnam, meanwhile, has carved out a strong position through high-volume exports of black pepper and cinnamon, with exports reaching billions of dollars annually.

What this really means is that the global spice trade is no longer broadly distributed. Instead, it is increasingly concentrated in a handful of high-performing economies.

India’s strength lies in scale and diversity. The country produces more than 60 of the world’s recognised spice varieties and exports a wide range of products, from chilli and turmeric to cumin and spice oils . Its long-established supply chains and strong agricultural base have allowed it to maintain leadership even as competition intensifies.

Vietnam, by contrast, has taken a more specialised approach. Its dominance in key segments, such as black pepper, has enabled it to rapidly expand its global footprint, supported by efficient production systems and export-focused policies .

Beyond the top two, the market drops sharply. Mexico ranks third with about $1 billion in exports, followed by Peru, Uzbekistan and Pakistan, each contributing a far smaller share. Other players such as Chile, Turkey and Colombia maintain niche positions, while Ethiopia rounds out the top ten with a minimal share of the global market.

Global spice production has reached more than 6 million metric tonnes in recent years, with demand driven by shifting consumer preferences, growing interest in health-focused ingredients, and the growth of processed foods.

At the same time, the trade remains vulnerable to disruption. Climate change, supply chain bottlenecks and quality control issues continue to pose risks, particularly for countries heavily reliant on agricultural exports.

Recent reporting indicates a noticeable decline in the number of Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme workers seeking asylum in Vanuatu. This shift suggests tighter migration oversight and possibly changing economic incentives both within Vanuatu and in destination countries like Australia. Officials have pointed out that earlier spikes in asylum requests were often tied to labour mobility gaps and worker dissatisfaction abroad. The current drop may reflect improved bilateral coordination or stricter enforcement mechanisms. What this really means is that Vanuatu is recalibrating its position within regional labour flows. The PALM scheme has long been a critical income pipeline for households, so any contraction in asylum-related activity could signal either stabilisation or reduced access to alternative migration pathways.

Supreme Court rejects application lacking legal merit

The Vanuatu Supreme Court has dismissed a recent application on the basis that it “lacks legal merit”, reinforcing judicial scrutiny over cases perceived as weak or procedurally flawed. While specific litigants were not detailed in the brief, rulings like this typically hinge on insufficient evidence, jurisdictional issues, or failure to meet statutory thresholds. This decision underscores the judiciary’s role in maintaining procedural discipline. It also sends a clear signal to litigants and legal practitioners: the courts are not a venue for speculative or poorly grounded claims. In a small but increasingly complex legal system, these rulings help manage caseload pressure and uphold institutional credibility.

Former prime minister calls for non-alignment stance

A former prime minister has publicly urged Vanuatu to maintain its long-standing non-alignment policy , particularly amid intensifying geopolitical competition in the Pacific. The call reflects growing concern over external influence from major powers seeking strategic footholds in the region. The catch is that Vanuatu’s foreign policy has historically balanced relationships across competing blocs. The former leader’s position reinforces that “non-alignment is not neutrality, but strategic independence”, a framing often used in Pacific diplomacy. The renewed emphasis suggests internal debate about whether economic partnerships are beginning to blur political autonomy.

Prison sentence reforms raise capacity concerns

Proposals or trends toward longer prison sentences are triggering concerns about correctional facility capacity in Vanuatu. With infrastructure already limited, any increase in incarceration duration could quickly lead to overcrowding, resource strain, and human rights challenges. Officials and analysts are likely weighing a difficult trade-off: tougher sentencing as a deterrent versus the practical limits of the prison system. Without parallel investment in facilities or alternative sentencing frameworks, the system risks becoming unsustainable. This issue sits at the intersection of justice policy and state capacity, and it is not easily resolved.

Passport inquiry controversy and political accountability

Former prime minister Sato Kilman has not been summoned in an ongoing passport-related inquiry and has denied any allegations tied to the case. The situation points to continuing scrutiny over Vanuatu’s citizenship and passport programmes, which have faced international attention in recent years. Even without a formal summons, the political implications are significant. Allegations around passport schemes often raise questions about governance, transparency, and due diligence. Kilman’s denial adds another layer to an already sensitive issue, particularly as Vanuatu navigates external pressure to tighten oversight of its citizenship-by-investment framework.

Ethiopia is expected to top the list with real GDP growth of about 9.2%, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s most dynamic economies. The IMF has pointed to sustained public investment, expansion in services and gradual recovery from recent macroeconomic pressures as key drivers of growth.

Close behind, Guinea is projected to grow by 8.7%, supported largely by its booming mining sector. The country is one of the world ’s largest producers of bauxite, a key raw material for aluminium, and rising global demand has continued to attract foreign investment, according to IMF assessments.

Uganda is forecast to expand by 7.5%, with growth underpinned by infrastructure development and the anticipated ramp-up of its oil sector. The IMF has highlighted that energy projects, alongside agriculture and services, are expected to play a central role in sustaining momentum.

Rwanda, long regarded as a reform-oriented economy, is projected to grow by 7.2%. The IMF credits its consistent policy framework, investment in technology and efforts to position itself as a regional services hub for its steady performance.

Benin and Niger are also expected to post strong growth of 7.0% and 6.7%, respectively. In both countries, infrastructure spending and regional trade integration have been key contributors, with the IMF noting improved fiscal management and investment flows.

Côte d’Ivoire, one of West Africa’s economic anchors, is projected to grow by 6.2%, driven by agriculture, construction and services. The IMF has repeatedly cited the country’s diversified economy and stable policy environment as factors supporting its resilience.

Further down the list, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania are both expected to grow by 5.9%. In the DRC, mining, particularly copper and cobalt, continues to dominate, while Tanzania’s expansion is supported by tourism, infrastructure and energy investments.

Mali rounds up the top 10 with a projected growth of 5.5%, reflecting a rebound in key sectors despite ongoing security challenges.

IMF notes that fast-growing economies across Africa are increasingly driven by a mix of natural resources, urbanisation and policy reforms, offering pockets of opportunity for investors despite lingering risks.

Recent figures show that $1 converts to about 1.29 Singapore dollars and 1.28 Brunei dollars, placing both nations at the stronger end of the regional spectrum. Their currencies have remained relatively firm, supported by stable macroeconomic conditions and, in Singapore’s case, a tightly managed exchange rate system.

Bloomberg has noted that sustained capital inflows and prudent monetary management continue to reinforce the city-state’s currency resilience.

Across much of the region, however, the dollar stretches further. In Malaysia, it trades at roughly 4.04 ringgit, while Thailand’s baht stands near 32.59 per dollar.

The Philippine peso, at about 60.64 to the dollar, reflects ongoing pressures tied to inflation and external balances. According to Bloomberg analysis, currencies in these economies have remained sensitive to global financial tightening and shifts in investor sentiment.

Indonesia’s rupiah, hovering around 16,947 per dollar, illustrates this balancing act. While the country has benefited from commodity exports, Bloomberg reports that its currency remains exposed to global interest rate movements, prompting periodic intervention by the central bank to maintain stability.

The divergence becomes more pronounced in frontier markets. Vietnam’s dong trades at approximately 26,340 per dollar, while Laos and Cambodia register around 21,632 kip and 4,010 riel, respectively. Myanmar’s kyat, at roughly 2,100 per dollar, reflects deeper structural and economic challenges.

These variations go beyond exchange rates. They point to fundamental differences in purchasing power, economic structure, and policy frameworks. A stronger currency often signals stability but raises domestic costs, while weaker currencies can support exports yet reduce the ability to absorb imported inflation.

Monetary strategy plays a central role. Singapore’s reliance on exchange rate management contrasts with the interest rate-focused approaches seen in countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines. Bloomberg has highlighted how this divergence shapes currency performance, particularly during periods of global monetary tightening.

With the U.S. Federal Reserve maintaining a cautious stance on easing, the dollar has remained firm. Bloomberg suggests that this trend could persist in the near term, keeping pressure on Southeast Asian currencies and reinforcing the disparities seen across the region.

Taken together, the figures underline a simple but important reality: Southeast Asia is far from economically uniform. The reach of a single dollar continues to reflect the region’s varied economic conditions, offering insight into both opportunity and risk for policymakers, businesses, and investors alike.

"Made in China" was the undisputed mantra of the country’s rise. Today, however, a profound structural migration is underway. Following a landmark directive from China’s State Council, Beijing has formally mapped out an audacious future: a services economy projected to surpass ¥100 trillion (approximately $14 trillion) by 2030. This signals a decisive move away from a hardware-driven growth model toward a "China Service" era defined by intelligence, technology, and global standards.

The transition is already visible in the data. In the first quarter of 2026, services accounted for 61.7% of China’s GDP growth, signalling that the shift from a manufacturing-heavy economy to a high-value service hub is no longer a future projection - it is a current reality.

Factory brains

The first pillar of this strategy is the extension of "Producer Services" toward specialisation and the high end of the value chain. China recognises that the future of manufacturing lies not in assembly, but in the "industrial brain" behind it.

The science and technology hubs of Beijing, Shanghai, and the Greater Bay Area are serving as high-velocity engines for this shift, catalysing breakthroughs in robotics, drones, and general-purpose Large Language Models (LLMs). By integrating these frontier technologies into the core of producer services, China is moving beyond traditional consulting toward an "automated expertise" model that optimises industrial design, smart logistics, and predictive maintenance across the global supply chain.

For example, in the realm of tech-enabled services, the "Qi Yuan" model has transformed AI from a linguistic tool into a digitalised attending physician at the ICU bedside. Developed by Shenzhen-based medical giant Mindray and tech titan Tencent, Qi Yuan is the world’s first LLM clinically implemented for critical care. This shift toward high-end, specialised services is the engine driving the Chinese industry toward the apex of the global value chain.

  Quality of modern life

The second pillar is the transformation of "Life Services" to emphasise quality, variety, and convenience. As China's 500-million-strong middle class begins to prioritise "quality of life" over the mere accumulation of goods, the government is opening doors to satisfy increasingly diverse consumer demands.

In Shanghai’s Qingpu District, the launch of DeltaHealth Hospital Shanghai - owned by the British conglomerate Swire Pacific - serves as a vital bellwether. As the first general hospital in the city permitted to convert into a wholly foreign-owned entity, it represents an "airlift" of international management logic and specialised expertise into the heart of the Chinese market.

By attracting high-level international medical institutions, China is pursuing a dual-track strategy: meeting the sophisticated demands of high-income groups while simultaneously reducing pressure on public hospitals, which are often overcapacity due to China's massive population. Furthermore, Beijing is encouraging this competition to boost the overall quality of domestic healthcare services.

Meanwhile, a growing ageing population is seeking a better quality of life post-retirement. On the island of Hainan, China’s southernmost province and largest tropical territory, the "Silver Economy" is emerging as a major opportunity. In the Hainan Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, the traditional silos between tourism, healthcare, and elderly care have vanished, replaced by a closed-loop ecosystem. This deep integration of "service + consumption" allows patients to access cutting-edge global drugs synchronised with international approvals, directly addressing health anxieties within an ageing society .

Why the pivot?

Why has China launched this trillion-dollar offensive now? Beyond hedging against rising manufacturing costs brought by geopolitics and other uncertainties, the move is rooted in a desire for resilient public well-being and a green future. Services are inherently less carbon-intensive, making them a natural vehicle for China’s "Dual Carbon" goals. Furthermore, by opening professional sectors like healthcare, education, and finance to global competition, China is using international standards to catalyse a domestic industrial upgrade, creating a more predictable and transparent business environment.

For global investors, this $14 trillion invitation is both a golden opportunity and a strategic challenge. Future dividends will no longer belong to those seeking cheap labour, but to those who can provide systemic solutions, high-end expertise, and innovative service models. From "Made in China" to "China Service," this is more than a change in name - it is a fundamental transformation of the nation's economic engine. In this new era, China will no longer just consume components and raw materials; it will consume the world’s most sophisticated intelligence and services.

Du Yubin is a journalist and producer for CGTN. He was stationed in Washington, D.C. and London for six years each, focusing on China-US and China-EU relations. He has over 15 years of experience in international communication and new media . The views expressed in this article are the author’s own.

Recent figures show that the worldwide total reached approximately 101.7 million colonies in 2024, marking a 46.6% increase compared with 1990 levels. The expansion reflects rising demand for pollination services and honey production, particularly in developing economies.

Asia accounts for the largest share, with around 45.2 million colonies, nearly half of the global total, and the fastest long-term growth rate at over 95% since 1990. China, the world’s leading honey producer, has been a major driver of this increase, supported by large-scale commercial beekeeping and agricultural intensification.

Europe remains the second-largest region, with about 25.4 million colonies, though growth has been more modest at just over 13%. Despite stable overall numbers, several European countries have reported periodic colony losses linked to factors such as pesticide exposure, habitat loss and climate change, according to FAO assessments.

Africa has seen a notable rise, with colony numbers climbing nearly 38% to 18.5 million . FAO data suggests that traditional and smallholder beekeeping systems continue to underpin growth across the continent, where honey production plays a key role in rural livelihoods.

In the Americas, colonies increased by around 20% to 11.6 million. However, the United States and parts of Latin America have faced well-documented challenges, including colony collapse disorder and disease, which have offset stronger gains elsewhere in the region.

Oceania, while accounting for the smallest share at roughly 1.1 million colonies, recorded a 44.7% increase over the same period.

The FAO notes that while global colony numbers are rising, this does not necessarily indicate improving bee health . In several advanced agricultural systems, higher colony counts are often maintained through intensive management practices, including artificial feeding and replacement of lost colonies.

Pollinators such as honey bees are critical to global food production, contributing to the reproduction of around 75% of crop species worldwide, according to FAO estimates. Their economic value is measured in hundreds of billions of dollars annually.

Tanzania, which imports nearly all of its fuel, is particularly vulnerable to global price swings. Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi said petrol prices rose by 69% between February and March 2026, while diesel jumped by 104%, with kerosene and jet fuel also seeing sharp increases.

Economist Kelvin Mouris pointed to the potential of natural gas and electric vehicles to reduce costs, but noted that infrastructure gaps remain a challenge despite Tanzania’s large gas reserves.

The government has introduced measures to stabilise supply, including building fuel reserves to cover at least three months. The price surge is linked to disruptions in global oil supply chains, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.

The interim leader rejected suggestions that the delay signalled a rupture with Washington, saying Peru had no intention of confronting the United States and remained committed to maintaining strong diplomatic and commercial ties. His comments came days after U.S. ambassador Bernie Navarro warned that Washington would act to protect its interests if Peru negotiated “in bad faith”.

The proposed deal has faced criticism at home, with opponents questioning increased defence spending while Peru grapples with shortages in health and education. Defence Minister Carlos Diaz and Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela resigned on Wednesday in protest , saying contracts signed in April should be respected and warning that suspending payments could harm Peru’s national interests and relations with the United States.

Mazen Alloush, Director of Relations at Syria’s General Authority for Borders and Customs, said preparations had been underway for weeks.

The IMF estimates Asia’s nominal GDP at about $42.2 trillion , representing roughly 36% of global economic output. This places it ahead of North America, which contributes around $35.5 trillion, or 30%, and Europe at $29.6 trillion, or 25%.

The region’s leading position reflects the combined weight of major economies such as China, Japan and India, alongside fast-growing Southeast Asian markets. Over the past two decades, Asia has steadily increased its share of global GDP, driven by industrialisation, trade expansion and rising domestic consumption.

IMF data shows that emerging Asian economies continue to outpace global growth averages, reinforcing the region’s long-term economic influence.

Despite Asia’s lead, North America remains a dominant economic force, anchored by the United States, the world’s largest single economy. The region’s 30% share highlights its continued importance in global finance, technology and consumption.

Europe, with a 25% shar e, maintains a significant but comparatively smaller role. Its economy is spread across multiple advanced nations, including Germany, France and the United Kingdom, with growth shaped by both integration within the European Union and external trade.

Other regions account for much smaller portions of global output. South America contributes around $4.4 trillion, or 3.8%, while Africa’s total stands at approximately $3 trillion, or 2.6%.

Oceania, led by Australia and New Zealand , represents the smallest share among major regions, with about $2.1 trillion, or 1.8% of global GDP.

The United States exported roughly 4.0 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil in 2025, a 3% drop from the previous year despite record domestic production of 13.6 million bpd, the EIA said.

The Netherlands topped the list of U.S. oil importers, purchasing about 419 million barrels in 2025, accounting for roughly 10.7% of total exports.

Much of that oil flows through Rotterdam, one of the world’s largest energy hubs, where crude is refined or redistributed across Europe.

Mexico followed closely with 398 million barrels, while Canada ranked third at 324 million barrels, highlighting the continued strength of North American energy trade ties.

Other major buyers included South Korea, Japan, China and India, reflecting sustained demand from Asia even as regional flows shifted.

Top buyers of U.S. oil in 2025 (millions of barrels)

Europe remains dominant market

Europe has been the leading destination for U.S. crude since 2023, driven largely by efforts to replace Russian supplies following the Ukraine war.

However, exports to Europe fell by around 7% in 2025 as higher output from OPEC countries displaced some U.S. volumes.

Within the region, the United Kingdom recorded one of the steepest declines, with imports dropping roughly 35%, while the Netherlands increased purchases, offsetting some of the regional fall.

Exports to Asia and Oceania also weakened , particularly to China and Singapore. U.S. shipments to China plunged sharply amid trade tensions and competition from discounted oil supplied by countries such as Russia and Iran.

By contrast, India and Japan increased imports of U.S. crude, signalling a partial rebalancing of demand within the region.

Despite the 2025 decline, U.S. crude exports remain historically high. Since the lifting of a decades-long export ban in 2015, shipments have surged dramatically, rising to levels roughly 85 times higher than in 2011.

The United States has also maintained its status as a net petroleum exporter in recent years, reflecting strong production growth and expanding infrastructure.

A new visual dataset highlights how average monthly pensions in several European countries fall below €1,000 ($1,050), underscoring structural disparities that policymakers have long struggled to address.

The figures show Portugal at €961 ($1,010) per month, followed by Malta (€916 / $960) and Czechia (€843 / $885). Further down the scale, countries in Eastern and Southeastern Europe report markedly lower pensions, including Romania (€483 / $507), Serbia (€353 / $371), and Turkey (€281 / $295).

These figures align with broader Eurostat findings , which estimate the average pension across the European Union at roughly €1,345 per month (about $1,410) in 2022.

Annual pension income ranges from just €3,611 in Bulgaria to over €31,000 in Luxembourg, reflecting differences in wages, contributions, and welfare systems across member states.

Countries in the Balkans and Eastern Europe dominate the lower end of the spectrum . Bosnia and Herzegovina (€305 / $320) and Montenegro (€382 / $401) sit among the lowest, consistent with Eurostat data showing several of these economies have annual pensions below €8,000.

Turkey, a candidate country, remains at the bottom of the ranking, with pensions significantly affected by currency depreciation in recent years.

The OECD notes that public pensions account for more than 70% of older people’s income in many European countries, rising above 80% in some cases, making these disparities especially consequential for living standards.

Here’s the thing: pension outcomes in Europe are less about generosity and more about underlying economics.

Countries with higher wages, stronger tax bases, and mature social security systems, particularly in Northern and Western Europe, can sustain higher payouts. Meanwhile, lower-income economies tend to rely on more limited contribution systems.

The OECD estimates that, on average, pensions replace about 52% of pre-retirement income across member countries, though this varies widely depending on earnings level and national policy design.

Differences in retirement age, contribution rates, and the balance between public and private pension schemes further widen the gap.

Demographics are adding urgency to the issue. The OECD projects that the ratio of retirees to working-age people will rise sharply in the coming decades, putting additional strain on pension systems.

Across OECD countries, the population aged 65 and over is expected to surge , while the working-age population declines, raising concerns about sustainability and adequacy.

At the same time, replacement rates are projected to fall over time, meaning future retirees could receive a smaller share of their previous earnings.

When adjusted for purchasing power, disparities appear less extreme. Eurostat data show the gap between the highest and lowest pensions shrinks significantly when accounting for cost-of-living differences, though inequalities remain substantial.

China is shown as the largest single destination, taking roughly 23% of flows, followed by India at 13%, with Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia also accounting for significant shares.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration , around 84% of crude oil and condensate shipped through the Strait of Hormuz in 2024 was destined for Asian countries.

China, India, Japan and South Korea alone accounted for roughly 69% of total flows, making them the most exposed to any disruption.

The International Energy Agency estimates that nearly a third of globally traded crude oil passes through the strait, with China and India together receiving about 44% of these exports.

The Strait of Hormuz handles around 20 million barrels of oil per day, roughly a fifth of global petroleum consumption, making it the most important oil transit chokepoint in the world.

It also carries a significant share of global liquefied natural gas, particularly exports from Qatar, one of the world’s largest LNG suppliers.

Despite its importance, alternatives remain limited. Pipelines in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates can bypass part of the route, but cannot fully replace their capacity in the event of a disruption.

By contrast to Asia, Western economies account for a much smaller share of direct imports.

The United States and Europe together receive less than 10% of oil flows through the strait, reflecting increased domestic production in the U.S. and diversified supply chains in Europe.

In 2024, the U.S. imported only about 7% of its crude oil from Persian Gulf countries via the strait, highlighting its reduced dependence compared with previous decades.

The Strait’s strategic importance has made it a recurring focal point of geopolitical tension.

Recent conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the USA have once again highlighted the vulnerability of global energy supply chains, with shipping disruptions triggering price volatility and raising fears of broader economic fallout.

Nowhere is this more visible than in the revival of hanfu , traditional Han Chinese attire. In Beijing’s historic quarters, among the vermilion walls of imperial palaces and the expansive courtyards of classical gardens, young people are embracing styles rooted in dynastic history. These are not isolated performances staged for tourists, nor purely superficial gestures for social media. The attention to detail - from layered silks and embroidered patterns to carefully styled hair and accessories - reflects a deeper engagement with cultural heritage.

A decade ago, the fashion sensibilities of China’s urban youth often leaned heavily toward Parisian runways or New York streetwear. Today, those reference points are no longer dominant. Instead, a distinctly Chinese aesthetic is emerging, one that draws confidently from a civilisational past spanning millennia. Whether it was the best-selling fridge magnets modelled after Empress Dowager Xiaoduan’s phoenix crown or the operatic vocals layered over trending Douyin beats, the past is now "cool." This shift is not a rejection of global influence, but rather a rebalancing: Western trends are no longer the default benchmark, but one influence among many.

This cultural recalibration is reinforced by the digital ecosystem. Social media platforms and algorithm-driven content have accelerated the popularisation of traditional motifs, turning historical references into contemporary trends. Ancient symbols are reinterpreted through modern formats, from viral short videos to fashion collaborations, creating a feedback loop in which heritage becomes both relevant and desirable.

Time travel in Xi'an

At the same time, China’s tourism industry offers further evidence of this changing mindset. Domestic travel is increasingly centred on rediscovering and reimagining the country’s own historical and cultural assets. In cities like Xi’an, large-scale projects have transformed fragments of the past into immersive experiences. Nighttime districts inspired by the Tang Dynasty blend performance, architecture, and digital spectacle, attracting visitors not only as spectators but as participants in a stylised historical narrative.

These developments are not without complexity. Such projects often rely on significant investment and are shaped by the logic of the attention economy, raising questions about sustainability and long-term value. Yet their popularity underscores a broader point: there is a strong domestic appetite for cultural experiences rooted in Chinese history, even when mediated through modern technology and commercial frameworks.

Elsewhere, sites like Dujiangyan or the preserved homes of classical poets reveal another dimension of this trend. Here, the emphasis is less on spectacle and more on continuity - on the endurance of philosophical traditions, environmental harmony, and moral ideals. The steady flow of visitors to these locations reflects a renewed interest in the intellectual and ethical foundations of Chinese civilisation, suggesting that cultural confidence is not confined to aesthetics alone.

Confidence not fear

Importantly, this inward turn does not equate to isolation. China’s recent expansion of visa-free entry policies for numerous countries points in the opposite direction. By simplifying access for foreign visitors, the country is signalling openness and a willingness to engage. The ease with which travellers can now enter, navigate, and transact within China challenges outdated perceptions of inaccessibility.

However, this openness coexists with a more self-assured posture. The willingness to welcome outsiders is no longer accompanied by a perceived need to cater to external cultural expectations. Instead, visitors are invited to encounter China on its own terms and engage with a society that is increasingly confident in the value and appeal of its own traditions.

Taken together, these developments suggest a nuanced transformation. China is not closing itself off from the world, but it is preparing for a future in which cultural leadership is more diffuse and less centred on Western paradigms. Fashion, tourism, and everyday cultural practices are becoming vehicles for this transition, expressing a society that is rediscovering its roots while redefining its place in a changing global landscape.

In this context, the resurgence of traditional dress, the reinvention of heritage tourism, and the expansion of visa-free access all point to the same underlying reality: a country that is opening its doors wider, even as it grows more confident in what lies within them.

The article solely represents the views of Yubin Du, a journalist for Chinese broadcaster CGTN, who was based in Washington DC and London between 2012 and 2025.

The Chicago-headquartered group reported confectionery sales of $38.5 billion, maintaining a clear lead over rival Mars Inc., which posted $36 billion in revenue from its sprawling snacks division.

Italian firm Ferrero Group secured third place with $22.2 billion, while The Hershey Company and Nestlé rounded out the top five with $11.7 billion and $11 billion respectively, underscoring continued dominance by a handful of multinational players.

The latest rankings highlight the enduring influence of a small cluster of global heavyweights often referred to as “Big Chocolate”, including Mondelēz, Mars, Ferrero, Hershey and Nestlé, which collectively command a significant share of global confectionery revenue.

These companies benefit from vast manufacturing networks, strong brand portfolios and global distribution systems, allowing them to maintain scale advantages even as consumer tastes evolve.

Beyond the top five, Japan ’s Meiji Co., Switzerland’s Lindt & Sprüngli, Germany’s Haribo, Italy-based Perfetti Van Melle and UK-based Pladis complete the top 10 list, reflecting a mix of heritage European brands and Asian growth players.

The rankings come against a backdrop of steady growth in the global candy market, which is valued at approximately $78.8 billion in 2026 and projected to reach nearly $99 billion by 2031.

Manufacturers are increasingly responding to changing consumer preferences, including demand for premium products, reduced-sugar formulations and plant-based ingredients.

Digital commerce is also reshaping distribution, with online candy sales growing steadily as companies expand direct-to-consumer channels.

At the same time, emerging markets in Asia-Pacific are driving future growth, supported by rising incomes and urbanisation, even as Europe and North America remain the largest revenue centres.

Djibouti this week opened a major ship repair yard , a move aimed at strengthening its position along one of the world’s busiest shipping corridors. The facility is expected to provide maintenance services for commercial and military vessels passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key chokepoint linking the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean. Officials say the project forms part of a broader strategy to transform Djibouti into a leading logistics and maritime services hub, reducing reliance on foreign repair facilities while boosting employment and economic diversification. The country’s ports already play a central role in regional trade, serving as the primary maritime gateway for landlocked Ethiopia and handling thousands of ships annually.

Energy flows and economic fragility

At the same time, Djibouti’s economic outlook remains closely tied to regional stability. Recent tanker movements into the country highlight its role in energy supply chains, particularly for neighbouring Ethiopia, which depends heavily on Djibouti’s port infrastructure. However, the International Monetary Fund has warned that the broader Horn of Africa remains vulnerable to external shocks, including instability in Gulf energy markets and disruptions to shipping routes. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait itself carries a significant share of global oil shipments, making any disruption to the corridor a major concern for international energy markets.

Rising tensions in key shipping routes

Concerns have intensified as conflict linked to Iran and its regional allies increasingly affects major maritime chokepoints. The Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb, both vital for global energy flows, have come under renewed scrutiny amid escalating hostilities. Recent developments in the Iran conflict have seen attacks on commercial shipping and the rerouting of vessels away from high-risk areas, raising costs and delays for global trade. Security analysts warn that if disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz intensify, the Bab el-Mandeb could become even more critical, placing Djibouti at the centre of shifting global shipping patterns.

The Horn of Africa as a new frontline

The region’s strategic importance is further underscored by its growing military significance. Djibouti hosts multiple foreign military bases , including the only permanent United States base in Africa, making it a focal point for international operations. Analysts say the Horn of Africa is increasingly being drawn into broader geopolitical rivalries, including tensions involving Iran, Israel and Gulf states. Military infrastructure, trade routes and alliances are turning the region into an “active front” in wider conflicts. Recent warnings suggest that strategic sites in Djibouti and neighbouring areas could become targets in the event of further escalation, particularly as proxy conflicts spill into maritime domains.

Recent data from Numbeo and GlobalProductPrices show that consumers in Switzerland now pay around $7.73 for a dozen large eggs, the highest globally, followed by New Zealand at roughly $6.19 and Puerto Rico at $5.64. Denmark, the Netherlands and Luxembourg also rank among the most expensive markets, reflecting broader cost pressures across high-income economies.

While European and developed markets dominate the top tier, prices in countries such as India, Pakistan and Nigeria remain below $2 per dozen, highlighting wide gaps in production costs, labour and purchasing power.

At the centre of the price spike is a prolonged outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu , which decimated poultry flocks worldwide in 2024 and 2025. Millions of egg-laying hens have been culled to contain the disease, sharply reducing supply and pushing prices higher.

In the United States alone, egg supply fell by as much as 15–20% during peak outbreaks, contributing to price spikes that exceeded $6–$8 per dozen in some regions.

The economic mechanics are straightforward, as fewer hens mean fewer eggs, creating a supply deficit that drives prices upward in a market where demand remains relatively inelastic.

Beyond disease outbreaks, producers are grappling with escalating input costs. Feed prices, particularly for corn and soybean meal, along with higher energy, transport and labour costs, have significantly increased the cost of egg production globally.

Regulatory changes are also playing a role. In countries such as Switzerland and New Zealand, stricter animal welfare standards and transitions to cage-free farming systems have raised operational costs, which are ultimately passed on to consumers.

Faced with persistent volatility, producers are investing heavily in biosecurity measures and rebuilding flocks, though recovery remains slow because hens require time to mature and resume laying.

Exporters and importers, meanwhile, are adapting trade flows to stabilise supply. Governments in some countries are exploring increased egg imports and financial support for farmers to cushion the impact of shortages and price swings.

Retailers and food manufacturers have also adjusted, introducing purchase limits and reformulating products to reduce reliance on eggs amid elevated prices.

A new voting simulation reported by El Comercio shows Peru’s 2026 presidential race remains highly volatile just days before the April 12 election. The poll suggests no clear frontrunner, with several candidates clustered closely and a significant share of undecided voters. Analysts say the “electoral board keeps shifting” as alliances and late campaign dynamics influence voter preferences. The fragmented landscape reflects broader political instability following years of institutional crisis. Experts warn that the lack of a dominant candidate could lead to a highly contested second round. The findings underline the unpredictability of one of Peru’s most uncertain elections in recent history .

One dead and dozens injured in Lima stadium incident

At least one person has died, and dozens were injured following a crowd incident outside Lima’s Alejandro Villanueva Stadium ahead of a match involving Alianza Lima. Authorities ruled out any structural collapse, indicating the incident was caused by disorder among fans gathered for a pre-match event. Emergency services treated numerous injured people, several of them in critical condition, as investigations continue into the circumstances. Officials and club representatives pledged full cooperation to determine responsibility. Despite the incident, the domestic league confirmed the fixture would go ahead as planned. The tragedy has renewed concerns over crowd control and safety at major sporting events in Peru.

Peruvian engineer joins historic Artemis II moon mission

Peruvian engineer Jackelynne Silva Martinez has been highlighted for her role in NASA’s Artemis II, the mission set to orbit the Moon. Her participation marks a significant milestone for Peru’s presence in global space exploration. According to reports by La Republica, Silva Martínez is contributing to key engineering aspects of the programme. The mission is part of broader efforts to return humans to the Moon and pave the way for future Mars exploration. Her achievement has been widely celebrated as an inspiration for young scientists in Peru. Officials and academics emphasised the importance of investing in science and technology to build on such successes.

Mining exports surge driven by gold and copper

Peru’s mining exports recorded a sharp increase of 47.6% in December 2025, according to figures from the Ministry of Energy and Mines of Peru cited by La Republica. The growth was largely driven by strong international demand for gold and copper, the country’s main export commodities . The figures highlight the continued importance of the mining sector to Peru’s economy, accounting for a significant share of export revenues. Authorities noted that global market conditions and production levels both contributed to the surge. Economists say the trend could support economic recovery if sustained. However, they also stress the need for diversification to reduce dependence on raw materials.

Peruvian scientists highlight climate impact in Antarctica

A group of Peruvian researchers participating in Antarctic missions have warned about the growing impact of climate change on the continent’s megafauna. According to La Republica, the scientists—described as ambassadors of Peru and science—are studying how rising temperatures affect marine ecosystems and species survival. Their findings point to shifts in animal behaviour and habitat conditions linked to global warming. The research forms part of Peru’s ongoing scientific presence in Antarctica. Experts stress that such studies are crucial for understanding global climate patterns. The initiative also highlights Peru’s contribution to international environmental research efforts.

The Namibian government has launched a Work Integrated Learning Policy , targeting one of the country’s most pressing challenges: youth unemployment. The policy is designed to bridge the gap between education and the labour market by embedding practical work experience into training systems. In Namibia, where youth unemployment remains persistently high by regional standards, policymakers have increasingly focused on skills alignment and employability as key levers for economic inclusion. This move signals a shift away from purely academic pathways toward industry-linked training, with the expectation that graduates will enter the workforce with relevant, job-ready skills.

Economic outlook hints at a gradual recovery toward 2027

Namibia’s economy grew by 1.7% in 2025 , missing expectations due to sharp declines in the diamond sector, livestock farming and investment. Growth started stronger early in the year but weakened overall. Analysts say early signs of recovery are emerging, supported by policy measures, monetary easing and rising credit activity, though the impact will take time to filter through. Growth is projected at 2%–2.5% in 2026, driven by agriculture, uranium and services, with stronger gains expected from 2027 onwards. Potential oil and gas investments could further boost the outlook, while household demand remains weak due to slow policy transmission.

Private sector leadership shifts as NCCI appoints new chairman

The election of Vetumbuavi Mungunda as chairman of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) marks a notable development in the country’s business landscape. The NCCI plays a central role in representing private sector interests, engaging with government on policy and promoting investment. Leadership changes at this level often signal shifts in advocacy priorities, particularly around business climate reforms, access to finance and support for small and medium-sized enterprises. Mungunda’s appointment comes at a time when closer public-private collaboration is seen as critical to unlocking growth.

Digital payments strategy targets financial modernisation

The Bank of Namibia (BoN), in collaboration with PAN, has launched a new payment system strategy aimed at modernising the country’s financial infrastructure . The initiative is expected to expand digital payment adoption, improve transaction efficiency and strengthen financial inclusion. Across Africa, central banks are increasingly prioritising digital systems to reduce reliance on cash and integrate informal sectors into the formal economy. For Namibia, this strategy aligns with broader efforts to build a more resilient and accessible financial system, particularly for underserved populations.

Gold supply deal signals strategic reserve strengthening

The Bank of Namibia has secured a gold supply deal , reinforcing its reserve assets. Gold remains a key instrument for central banks seeking to hedge against currency volatility and global economic uncertainty. The agreement suggests Namibia is taking steps to strengthen its macroeconomic buffers, particularly in a volatile global environment. This also reflects a wider trend among emerging markets to increase gold holdings as part of reserve diversification strategies.

Data compiled from energy agencies and industry analyses, including the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), show the U.S. has held the top spot since 2023 , overtaking long-time leader Qatar and reshaping global gas supply dynamics.

The LNG industry has undergone several distinct phases over the past three decades, driven by infrastructure investment, resource discoveries and changing demand patterns.

In the early years, Algeria led global LNG exports between 1990 and 1994, leveraging its pioneering facilities at Arzew. According to Britannica, Algeria was among the first countries to commercialise LNG exports, giving it an early strategic advantage.

That lead faded as newer producers scaled faster. By the mid-1990s, Indonesia took over (1995–2005), supported by large export terminals such as Bontang and Arun, and long-term contracts with Asian buyers, particularly Japan. Industry analyses from Incorrys note that this period coincided with a surge in LNG demand across the Asia-Pacific region.

From 2006 to 2021, Qatar dominated the global LNG market, setting a new benchmark for scale and efficiency.

Backed by the massive North Field, the world ’s largest natural gas reservoir, Qatar expanded production through its Ras Laffan industrial complex. According to industry data and EIA assessments, Qatar at times accounted for over 30% of global LNG supply, cementing its role as the central player in international gas markets.

Its success was built on long-term contracts, cost advantages and the ability to deliver large, consistent volumes to Europe and Asia.

The balance shifted again in 2022, when Australia briefly became the top exporter, driven by major offshore LNG projects including Gorgon, Wheatstone and Ichthys.

However, analysts note that Australia’s lead was short-lived, as production growth plateaued and operational constraints limited further expansion.

Since 2023, the United States has taken the lead, powered by the shale gas revolution and the rapid expansion of LNG export terminals along the Gulf Coast.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the country’s export capacity has grown sharply in recent years, supported by facilities in Texas and Louisiana. The U.S. model differs from traditional exporters, offering flexible contracts and destination-free cargoes, making it particularly attractive to buyers.

Strong demand from Europe — especially following efforts to reduce reliance on Russian pipeline gas — and continued growth in Asian markets have accelerated U.S. exports.

Geopolitics and demand reshape the market

The shift in LNG leadership reflects broader geopolitical and economic changes.

Britannica notes that LNG plays a critical role in global energy systems by enabling natural gas to be transported across oceans, linking producers and consumers that are not connected by pipelines.

A regional breakdown of agricultural strengths shows Brazil at the forefront, producing major export crops including coffee, soybeans, corn, sugarcane and beef. Argentina follows closely, with strong output in soybeans, corn, wheat and beef, consolidating the Southern Cone’s role as a global breadbasket.

The trend reflects broader projections from Market Data Forecast, which estimates that Latin America’s agriculture market will continue to expand steadily, driven by rising global demand for food, biofuels and agricultural exports.

Brazil and Argentina anchor regional output

Brazil remains the world’s largest producer of coffee and one of the top exporters of soybeans and beef, according to international trade data. Its scale and diversified production base have positioned it as a cornerstone of global food supply chains.

Argentina, meanwhile, plays a pivotal role in global grain markets. As one of the leading exporters of soymeal and corn, the country is a key supplier to both Asian and European markets.

Market Data Forecast notes that strong export demand, coupled with technological adoption in farming, is expected to sustain growth across these sectors in the coming years.

Diverse specialisations across the region

Beyond the largest economies, Latin America’s agricultural landscape is defined by specialisation.

Mexico has built a strong export profile in high-value crops such as avocados, tomatoes and berries, supported by proximity to the United States and favourable trade agreements. The country is now one of the world’s top avocado exporters.

Colombia and Ecuador dominate in tropical commodities. Colombia is globally recognised for its coffee and cut flowers, while Ecuador leads in banana exports and is a major player in shrimp farming.

Peru and Chile have emerged as key exporters of premium agricultural goods. Peru has expanded rapidly in avocados, grapes and asparagus, while Chile’s agricultural sector is anchored by fruit exports, wine production and a globally competitive salmon industry.

According to Market Data Forecast, this diversification is helping the region reduce dependency on a narrow set of commodities, while tapping into higher-margin export markets.

Growing role in global food security

Latin America’s agricultural expansion comes at a time of increasing global concern over food security . The region accounts for a significant share of global exports in soybeans, maize, coffee and beef, making it essential to international supply chains.

Paraguay and Uruguay, though smaller in scale, contribute meaningfully through soybean production, beef exports and dairy products. Costa Rica, meanwhile, continues to supply global markets with coffee, bananas and pineapples.

Market Data Forecast highlights that favourable climate conditions, abundant land resources and increasing investment in agri-tech are strengthening the region’s competitive advantage.

“Of course, we want to celebrate ( Aidilfitri ), but I would like to urge moderation,” Anwar said, according to Bernama. “Look at the wars taking place, do not assume nothing will happen. They are disrupting oil and gas… So we must save a little.” He suggested scaling back festive food preparations, including making fewer types of kuih and less ketupat.

Anwar, who is also finance minister, said a thrifty approach was needed as supply chain strains and higher prices continued to weigh on households. His remarks came as the government had already moved to cushion holiday costs, including announcing an additional public holiday and a 15-day festive season price control scheme for essential goods.

The Middle East conflict was not the only strain hanging over Ramadan in Malaysia this year. 

Health authorities also warned of a rise in tuberculosis cases during a period marked by packed bazaars, communal iftar meals and other crowded gatherings.

Malaysia recorded 596 new tuberculosis infections in Epidemiological Week 6 of 2026, bringing the national total to 3,161 cases so far this year, according to health ministry figures cited in multiple local reports. The increase was 9.8 per cent from the same period a year earlier, with Sabah recording the highest number of cases, followed by Selangor and Sarawak.

Officials said the increase partly reflected better screening and case detection, not only higher transmission. Still, the ministry urged vigilance, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. Tuberculosis is spread through the air and remains a public health concern during large gatherings, even though Ramadan activities themselves do not directly cause infection.

Together, the economic warning and the health alert gave this year’s Ramadan and Aidilfitri period in Malaysia a more cautious tone than usual.

Africa’s exposure to global disruptions is closely tied to its reliance on imports and limited intra-continental trade, Kuagbedzi said, arguing that recent crises have underscored the urgency of reducing that dependence.

“Well, I think that we have to deepen African trade,” he said, referencing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which was created to boost trade among African countries but has yet to reach its full potential.

He warned that continued reliance on external suppliers for essential goods leaves African economies vulnerable when global supply chains are disrupted.

“We cannot continue as a continent to depend on, you know, others for our, you know, supplies in terms of crude oil, in terms of our cereals, in terms of sugar, in terms of everything that we actually import into this country.”

Economists have long argued that such dependence amplifies the impact of global shocks. Analysts, including Dani Rodrik, have pointed to the need for diversification and stronger domestic industries.

"Economic growth and development are possible only through the accumulation of capabilities over time, in areas ranging from skills and technologies to public institutions," wrote in his book, " The Globalisation Paradox ".

Nelson, during the discussion with Abigail Johnson Boakye, intimated that Africa must move beyond exporting raw materials and instead invest in value addition. “I think that we need to diversify our economic basis by adding more value to the raw materials,” he said, pointing to Ghana’s plan to stop exporting raw gold by 2030 as an example of policy direction.

He added that heavy reliance on imports has implications for employment and economic growth. “Once you continue to import, you are creating unemployment in your country, and you are creating a corresponding employment in that country.”

For Nelson, strengthening intra-African trade is central to reducing vulnerability.

“We should try as much as possible to trade within ourselves. We should try as much as possible to deepen our economic and financial relations. And we should also try as much as possible to build our economies based on African solutions that can solve African problems.”

Watch the full interview attached above.

The findings highlight the continued strength of pickup trucks in the American auto market, where large vehicles remain the top choice for consumers in both rural and urban regions.

The map visualisation illustrating the state-by-state breakdown was produced by The World in Maps with support from Mavin Mapping, using national vehicle sales data and industry reports.

Industry data from GoodCarBadCar and Statista shows the F-Series consistently selling hundreds of thousands of units annually, with more than 750,000 units sold in the United States in 2023 alone, far ahead of competing models.

The vehicle leads sales across large parts of the South, Midwest and Western United States, reflecting the strong popularity of trucks for work, transportation and lifestyle use.

While Ford dominates nationally, several other automakers lead sales in specific regions.

The data shows:

Tesla’s rise reflects broader trends in EV adoption. According to BloombergNEF and the U.S. Department of Energy , electric vehicle sales in the U.S. have surged in recent years, with models such as the Tesla Model Y and Model 3 becoming some of the best-selling electric cars nationwide.

Despite the rise of electric vehicles and compact SUVs, pickup trucks remain deeply embedded in American car culture .

Research from Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book shows trucks consistently account for several of the top-selling vehicles in the U.S. each year, driven by demand from construction, agriculture and outdoor lifestyle markets.

The F-Series in particular has become a symbol of the American automotive industry, combining work capability with consumer appeal.

Oil prices have surged above $100 per barrel as military strikes, tanker attacks and the disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz rattle global markets.

Global energy watchdog, the International Energy Agency (IEA), said on Thursday, March 12, the conflict has created the "largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market", removing millions of barrels a day from the market.

The Strait of Hormuz alone normally carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. With shipping traffic collapsing after Iranian retaliation and US-Israeli strikes, global energy markets have entered a period of extreme volatility.

For Africa, the consequences could be severe.

According to a Ghanaian financial analyst, Nelson Cudjoe Kuagbedzi, the biggest risk for African economies lies in the disruption of international supply chains.

“Okay, so I think the biggest risk has to do basically with the disruption in the international supply chains,” he told Global South  World. “Most of the goods and products that we use in Africa are imported, most especially petroleum products.”

That vulnerability is rooted in the structure of Africa’s energy sector. Despite producing crude oil, the continent lacks sufficient refining capacity and therefore imports much of the fuel it consumes.

In fact, Africa imports more than 70% of its refined petroleum products, leaving economies highly exposed to fluctuations in global oil markets.

Nelson says the continent’s limited production also makes it impossible to cushion the impact of a prolonged conflict.

“It is also important to know that the total crude output in Africa represents less than 10% of global crude output,” he explained.

The crisis also exposes another longstanding economic challenge of how Africa exports raw materials but imports many finished products.

“We haven't also developed our economies enough to the extent that we will use homegrown solutions to solve homegrown policies,” Kuagbedzi said.

“I mean, raw cocoa, raw gold, raw coffee, raw timber.”

For him, the war should serve as a wake-up call.

However, the Middle East remains the backbone of global oil supply. Many members of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) are located in the region, producing a significant share of the petroleum used worldwide.

According to Nelson, that concentration makes Africa particularly vulnerable.

“Most of the OPEC members that produce the chunk of the petroleum products, whether crude or refined, that we use in Africa, most of those OPEC members are in the Middle East,” he said.

With tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz disrupted and oil shipments stalled, markets are already reacting. Brent crude surged past $100 per barrel for the first time since the Ukraine war's energy shock.

If the crisis deepens, some analysts warn prices could climb much higher, intensifying inflation worldwide.

A regional overview of merchandise imports shows that China ranks as the first, second or third largest import partner across large parts of Europe, highlighting the deep economic ties between Beijing and European economies.

Official statistics from Eurostat show that China remained the European Union’s largest import partner in 2024, accounting for about 21.3% of all extra-EU imports, well ahead of the United States and the United Kingdom.

Total EU imports from China reached roughly €517.8 billion, compared with €213.3 billion in exports to China, creating a trade deficit of more than €300 billion.

Trade rankings suggest that China is the top import partner for several countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including economies such as Poland and Ukraine.

Across much of the region, China consistently appears among the top three sources of imported goods, driven by strong demand for electronics, machinery and industrial components.

According to global trade statistics, China accounted for about 17.5% of global exports, making it the largest exporter worldwide.

On the contrary, some Western European countries show more diversified import relationships.

For example, countries such as France and Spain source significant imports from neighbouring European economies as well as the United States, meaning China ranks outside the top five in some cases.

Even so, the EU and China maintain one of the world ’s largest bilateral trading relationships.

Total EU-China trade in goods reached about €732 billion in 2024, underscoring the scale of economic interdependence between the two markets.

The figures highlight the growing role of school feeding initiatives in tackling hunger, improving child nutrition and boosting school attendance worldwide.

Data summarised by WFP show that large-scale programmes across Asia, Africa, and the Americas collectively reach hundreds of millions of students each year, with developing and emerging economies dominating the list of countries serving the most children.

India’s Midday Meal Scheme, officially known as the PM POSHAN programme, is the largest school feeding initiative globally. It provides cooked meals to primary and secondary school students in government schools nationwide.

According to India’s Ministry of Education and WFP reports, the programme reaches approximately 118 million beneficiaries, making it the most extensive school meal system in the world.

Experts say the initiative plays a critical role in improving educational outcomes.

“School meals increase attendance, reduce malnutrition and support cognitive development,” the World Food Programme says in its global school feeding overview.

Indonesia ranks second globally, with 61.2 million total beneficiaries, including about 49 million students receiving school-only meals, according to data updated on March 3, 2026.

The Indonesian government has been expanding nutrition programmes aimed at tackling childhood stunting and improving learning outcomes.

Large-scale feeding programmes are increasingly seen as a tool to address both poverty and education challenges simultaneously.

Several major economies also operate extensive school feeding systems.

The latest WFP-linked summary shows:

Brazil’s National School Feeding Programme (PNAE) is widely regarded as one of the world’s most comprehensive systems , linking school meals with local agricultural supply chains.

In the United States, the National School Lunch Program, administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, provides free or subsidised meals to tens of millions of children each school day.

Beyond the top five, several countries run national programmes feeding millions of students daily.

Other major programmes include:

In Africa, countries such as South Africa, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Kenya and Malawi have also scaled up school feeding programmes to address food insecurity and encourage school attendance.

Nigeria’s National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, for example, provides meals to nearly 10 million children while supporting local farmers who supply food to schools.

The Ministry of Economy and Finance, through the National Coordination for the Fight Against Fraud (CNLF), handed over 3,255 counterfeit March 8 fabrics to the Ministry of Family and Solidarity on March 9, 2026, in Ouagadougou. The fabrics were seized during anti-fraud operations in Bobo-Dioulasso and are valued at over 3.5 million CFA francs. Instead of destroying the counterfeit goods, authorities decided to donate them to vulnerable and internally displaced women. Finance Minister Aboubakar Nacanabo, therefore, transferred the fabrics to Family and Solidarity Minister Lt.-Col. Passowendé Pélagie Kabré for distribution to those in need.

ALT President holds talks with UNHCR on refugee protection

The President of Burkina Faso’s Transitional Legislative Assembly, Ousmane Bougouma, met a UNHCR delegation in Ouagadougou on March 9, 2026, led by Assistant High Commissioner for Protection Ruven Menkdiwela and Regional Director for West and Central Africa Abdouraouf Gnon-Kondé. The talks focused on strengthening cooperation between UNHCR and Burkinabe authorities to improve protection for refugees, internally displaced persons, stateless people and host communities. Menkdiwela praised the role of parliament in adopting laws that protect vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, and thanked the Legislative Assembly for its commitment to supporting people in need.

Ghana National Day: Foreign Affairs officials attend

Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré and Deputy Minister Bêbgnasgan Stella Eldine Kabré joined the Ghanaian community in Ouagadougou on March 6 to celebrate Ghana’s 69th Independence Day. The event highlighted the long-standing ties between the two neighbouring countries, which share deep historical, cultural and economic links. Officials also welcomed the outcomes of the 13th Joint Cooperation Commission, where seven legal agreements were signed to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Burkina Faso PM meets Moroccan ambassador on cooperation

Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo met Moroccan Ambassador Youssef Slaoui in Ouagadougou on March 10, 2026, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation . Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership between Burkina Faso and Morocco, building on South-South cooperation. They also highlighted the 5th Joint Commission held in December 2025, which marked 60 years of diplomatic relations and led to the signing of 14 agreements in sectors including agriculture, vocational training, trade and security.

Economic governance records 79% implementation from 2021–2025

Burkina Faso’s Economy and Finance Minister Aboubakar Nacanabo chaired the 2026 review of the Economic Governance Sectoral Dialogue Framework in Ouagadougou on March 10. The meeting assessed progress under the 2021–2025 action plan, which recorded a 79% implementation rate despite security and economic challenges. Authorities also reported over 13 trillion CFA francs in domestic revenue mobilisation, surpassing forecasts, and highlighted the country’s removal from the FATF grey list as a key reform milestone.

Data compiled from Yum China, Yum Brands and regional franchise reports shows that China hosts around 13,000 KFC outlets, making it by far the company’s biggest market globally. The United States, where Colonel Harland Sanders founded the chain in Kentucky in the 1950s, has more than 4,100 locations, according to company disclosures and franchise data.

The numbers reflect a broader transformation in the fast-food sector, where emerging markets in Asia and Africa are increasingly driving growth for Western restaurant brands.

KFC entered China in 1987, opening its first outlet near Tiananmen Square in Beijing. Since then, the brand has expanded rapidly across the country.

Today, the business is operated by Yum China Holdings, which manages KFC as its largest restaurant brand. The company reported thousands of new outlets across hundreds of Chinese cities, making it the largest quick-service restaurant network in the country.

Industry analysts say KFC’s success in China comes from adapting its menu and strategy to local tastes. In addition to fried chicken, Chinese outlets offer items such as congee, egg tarts, and rice bowls, a localisation approach often cited by restaurant industry analysts.

Despite China’s dominance, the United States remains the historical home of KFC.

Colonel Sanders began franchising his fried chicken recipe in 1952 , eventually building the brand into one of the world ’s most recognisable fast-food chains.

According to Yum Brands, KFC now operates tens of thousands of restaurants across more than 150 countries and territories, making it one of the most widely distributed restaurant brands globally.

However, mature markets like the U.S. have slower growth compared with Asia and emerging economies.

Several Asian countries appear among the top KFC markets worldwide.

Japan has over 1,200 restaurants, while India operates more than 1,100 locations and Thailand roughly 1,150 outlets, according to franchise reports and regional market estimates.

KFC’s popularity in Japan is particularly notable because of its long-standing association with Christmas celebrations, a marketing campaign launched in the 1970s that turned the brand into a holiday tradition.

Indonesia and Malaysia also rank among the top global markets, reflecting the brand’s strong foothold in Southeast Asia .

Outside Asia, South Africa hosts more than 1,000 KFC outlets, making it the largest KFC market on the African continent.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom and Ireland together operate more than 1,000 restaurants, one of the brand’s strongest markets in Europe.

Australia, with more than 800 locations, remains another major market for the fried chicken chain.

These installations serve as logistical hubs, training grounds and command centres for American and allied forces, forming the backbone of NATO’s deterrence posture in the region.

U.S. military installations are located in several European countries, including Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Poland, Romania, Greece, Portugal, Belgium, the Netherlands, Turkey, Norway, and Kosovo.

Germany hosts one of the largest concentrations of American military facilities in Europe. Among the most prominent is Ramstein Air Base, a major command centre for U.S. Air Forces in Europe and NATO Allied Air Command.

Ramstein plays a central role in coordinating air operations and logistics for missions across Europe, Africa and the Middle East . The base alone hosts more than 16,000 military personnel and civilian staff, making it one of the largest U.S. military communities outside the United States.

Other key hubs include:

U.S. European Command (EUCOM), headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, oversees American forces across the region. Estimates suggest more than 65,000 active-duty U.S. troops are stationed within the EUCOM area, according to Department of Defence data cited by Newsweek.

These troops are supported by thousands of civilian employees, contractors and family members living near bases throughout Europe.

The network of bases is believed to allow the United States to maintain a rapid response capability and reassure NATO allies, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Forward-deployed forces help Washington project power, conduct joint exercises, and support allied operations, while also signalling the United States' commitment to European security.

Many bases date back to the early Cold War era but have since evolved into modern logistical and command centres integrated into NATO’s collective defence structure.

Despite their strategic role, the scale of the American presence has become a subject of debate in recent years.

Recent discussions about possible troop reductions in Eastern Europe have heightened concerns among NATO allies about maintaining deterrence near the alliance’s eastern flank.

Understanding that divergence is critical to understanding the future of global competition.

America ’s military-centred economy

Since World War II, the United States has developed what economists occasionally refer to as a “military Keynesian” system—an economy where defence spending significantly influences macroeconomic policy.

The origins of this structure are rooted in history. Massive wartime production helped pull the United States out of the Great Depression, showing that large-scale government spending on defence could boost growth and jobs. When the Cold War started, high military spending became a lasting part of the American economy rather than just a temporary wartime measure.

Today, the United States spends more on defence than any other country in history. Its military budget makes up about 40 percent of the world's total defence spending. The defence industrial base includes hundreds of thousands of companies and supports millions of jobs nationwide. Defence-related research funding has also fuelled technological innovation—from aerospace engineering to the digital technologies that form the backbone of today’s global economy.

Over time, this system has built strong political coalitions. Defence contractors, research institutions, military commands, and congressional districts reliant on defence jobs all have a vested interest in preserving large military budgets.

The result is not just a powerful military—it is a political economy that naturally leans toward using military tools in foreign policy. Alliances, overseas bases, security guarantees, and arms sales become key parts of the country's international strategy.

The result is not just a powerful military—it is a political economy that naturally leans toward using military tools in foreign policy. Alliances, overseas bases, security guarantees, and arms sales become key parts of the country's international strategy.

China’s commercial strategy

China’s economic trajectory has followed a very different path. For decades, Chinese growth mainly relied on exports and manufacturing. But since the late 2000s, Beijing has aimed to shift the economy toward domestic consumption, services, and higher-value industries. The change has been slow but meaningful. China’s middle class has grown significantly, consumer spending has increased, and the service sector now makes up the largest part of the country’s economic output.

Despite markets playing a central role in this transformation, the Chinese government still guides economic development through industrial policies , state-owned financial institutions, and long-term planning. The political goal of this strategy is clear: sustained economic growth is crucial for maintaining social stability and the legitimacy of the Communist Party's rule.

That imperative naturally promotes a foreign policy focused more on economic strategies than military power—trade agreements, infrastructure investment, development finance, and supply-chain integration. China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which funds infrastructure in dozens of countries, clearly reflects this strategy. Instead of showing power through military bases and alliances, Beijing often influences other nations with ports, railways, energy networks, and business partnerships.

Two different toolkits

These economic foundations produce two different foreign policy toolkits. The United States has unmatched hard power: global military bases, strong alliances, and advanced weapons systems. Its influence is supported by a security framework built over many years.

China’s power, on the other hand, relies increasingly on commercial connectivity—trade links, infrastructure projects, and investment networks that connect foreign economies to Chinese markets.

Both systems generate influence. However, they function through different methods.

The United States generally exerts power via security relationships, while China primarily uses economic integration.

Why Washington and Beijing misread each other

Because the two countries operate under different economic principles, they often interpret each other’s actions through the wrong lens. American policymakers often see Chinese infrastructure investments or technology exports as strategic moves aimed at expanding geopolitical influence.

Chinese policymakers frequently view U.S. military deployments and alliances as efforts to contain China’s economic growth

In reality, both countries may simply be acting based on the incentives built into their own political economies.

The shape of future competition

The emerging U.S.-China rivalry may therefore be less about ideology and more about two different models of global influence. One model relies on military alliances, security guarantees, and defence technology. The other depends on markets, infrastructure, and commercial integration.

Both are powerful—and both have their limits. The United States maintains unmatched military capabilities and a vast alliance network. Meanwhile, China continues to grow its economic reach across much of the developing world.

The strategic competition between the two nations will likely play out not just in military contests but across trade, infrastructure, technology, and finance. In other words, the future of global power might be determined not just by who has the stronger military, but by which economic system proves more sustainable and influential over time. 

The opinions and thoughts expressed in this article reflect only the author's views.

Dean Tavakoli is an analyst and a senior executive who possesses over a decade of extensive global quantitative investment experience. He is the CEO of Sea Enerji, a petrochemical trading company based in Turkey and has also served as a strategic advisor for the Middle East Oil and Gas.

Nevertheless, reports in the US suggest that Russia is using its satellite and intelligence capabilities to keep its ally up to date on US and Israeli movements.

Donald Trump has brushed off questions about the cooperation, saying he is dealing with bigger problems. Amid a surge in global energy prices caused by the conflict, the US has also temporarily suspended its demands that India should refrain from buying Russian oil.

This gives Russia an interest in ensuring Iran can continue to disrupt neighbouring supply routes, according to security consultancy Eigenrac .

“We assess it as likely that Russia may continue providing Iran with intelligence or targeting support on US and allied assets in the region. Beyond strategic alignment against the United States , Moscow also has an economic incentive to sustain pressure on Gulf energy routes. Prolonged disruption or effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz would tighten global supply and could extend preferential arrangements such as India’s current 30-day window to purchase discounted Russian oil,” Eigenrac said in a briefing.

However, the analysts noted that with large investments and an expatriate community in the UAE, Russia may choose to discourage Iran from targeting cities there.

Given the desperation of the Iranian government in its fight for survival, “the impact of such dissuasion may be comparatively low, however,” Eigenrac noted.

The document marks a definitive departure from the export-and-investment-led expansion of the past three decades, signalling a pivot toward an era of "high-quality" growth where resilience and technological self-reliance take precedence over raw speed.

Moving beyond GDP

The most striking posture of the 15th Five-Year Plan (FYP) draft is its deliberate de-emphasis of rigid growth targets. The draft specifies that GDP growth should be maintained within a "reasonable range," with specific targets to be proposed "as appropriate each year," rather than anchoring the nation to a static, five-year numerical leap. This shift reflects a cold-eyed assessment by the leadership regarding the overlap of cyclical, structural, and institutional challenges currently facing the country.

This "de-sensitization" to growth numbers is not an admission of weakness but a strategic retreat toward focus. The draft instead emphasises the steady improvement of "Total Factor Productivity" (TFP) to lay the groundwork for doubling per capita GDP by 2035. From Beijing’s perspective, if the marginal utility of growth has diminished, pursuing sheer volume would only exacerbate debt risks and resource misallocation. Consequently, the core mission for the next five years is to "optimise increments and revitalise stock," prioritising the " security " and "advanced nature" of the industrial system to hedge against the social pressures of a slowing economy.

"AI+": Remodelling industry

At the crossroads of this growth transition, the draft elevates the "AI+" Initiative to a status of "revolutionary" productivity. This is no longer merely a celebration of the tech sector; it is a "dimensionality-reducing" empowerment across the entire industrial chain. The plan aims to activate the potential of data as a factor of production to trigger a leap in the "forces of production".

A look at the detailed "AI+" action plan reveals a highly pragmatic application of artificial intelligence in physical scenarios: from "AI for Science" (new paradigms in R&D) to power system regulation, energy exploration, and even biological breeding and disease prevention. This "Model-Chip-Cloud-Application" synergy is, in essence, a move to use digital intelligence to compensate for the vanishing "demographic dividend" and rising labor costs. Beijing is attempting to provide a digital armour for traditional manufacturing through the "efficient supply" of computing power, algorithms, and high-quality data, thereby seizing the strategic initiative in intense international competition.

Expanding domestic demand

If technology is the shield, then China’s "ultra-large-scale market" is its final fortress against a new landscape of international trade. The draft’s extensive sections on "building a strong domestic market" betray a profound sense of urgency: in an environment of rising protectionism and global disorder, external uncertainty has become the most significant exogenous variable for China’s development.

Expanding domestic demand has evolved from a policy option into a survival necessity. The draft proposes a tight integration of "improving livelihoods" with "promoting consumption" - essentially a grand strategic defensive play. By pushing the construction of a "Unified National Market" to dismantle local protectionism and market fragmentation, China intends to transform its fragmented domestic demand into a circulatory system with absolute bargaining power and risk-resistance.

This is not only to absorb industrial capacity that may be excluded from foreign markets but also to raise the consumption rate through higher incomes and improved social security to a level where the economy can operate autonomously. As the international trade order faces severe challenges, retreating the center of gravity to the "Internal Circulation" and using the certainty of high-quality development to deal with global uncertainty has become the undeniable subtext of the 15th FYP draft.

According to The Times of Israel , Iran has launched about 810 ballistic missiles and roughly 1,245 drones during the opening phase of the war, one of the largest sustained missile and drone campaigns seen in the Middle East in years.

The data illustrates the scale of Iran’s retaliatory strategy after U.S. strikes targeted Iranian military and nuclear facilities, triggering the 2026 regional conflict.

The largest wave of attacks came during the first two days of the war.

On Day 1 (Feb 28), Iran launched approximately 350 ballistic missiles alongside 294 drones , according to figures reported by the IDF and defence researchers tracking the conflict.

The barrage intensified on Day 2 (March 1), when Iran deployed around 175 missiles and 541 drones, marking the highest number of drones launched in a single day during the first week.

Security analysts say the opening salvo reflected Iran’s attempt to overwhelm air-defence systems through a strategy combining ballistic missiles with large numbers of drones.

After the initial surge, the number of launches began to decline as the conflict progressed.

Missile launches fell to 120 on Day 3 and 50 on Day 4, before dropping further to 40, 32, 28 and 15 missiles over the following days.

Drone activity showed a similar trend. After peaking on Day 2, launches fell to 200 drones on Day 3, then 85 on Day 4, followed by 45, 38, 30 and 12 drones over the next four days.

Iran’s heavy use of drones reflects a broader military doctrine that emphasises relatively low-cost unmanned systems to complement missile forces.

Iran has spent years developing drones such as the Shahed-series loitering munitions, which have been deployed in conflicts across the Middle East and beyond.

Oil prices have already reacted to the disruption. A barrel of crude, previously trading between $65 and $70 before the conflict intensified, has climbed to around $80, reflecting fears of prolonged instability in one of the world ’s most critical energy corridors.

Higher prices are likely to be felt acutely in Africa, where many countries rely heavily on imported fuel. Nations including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, South Africa and Tanzania depend on petrol, diesel and liquefied petroleum gas for transport, cooking and electricity generation, particularly in areas with unreliable power grids.

The conflict is also disrupting supply chains from Gulf economies such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, which export petrochemical feedstocks used in plastics, textiles, fertilisers and other goods consumed across Africa.

Despite their very different historical paths, the two countries share an unexpected similarity: their geographic outlines appear remarkably alike when placed side by side on a map.

Yet beyond that coincidence, the stories of Yugoslavia and Iran reveal two very different political journeys shaped by revolution, empire, and regional power struggles.

Yugoslavia: A Balkan Federation born from war

Yugoslavia was created after World War I in 1918 as the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, bringing together several South Slavic territories that had previously been part of the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman empires. In 1929, the state officially became known as Yugoslavia, meaning “Land of the South Slavs.”

After the Second World War, the country was transformed into the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia under the leadership of Josip Broz Tito, a communist revolutionary who led the anti-Nazi resistance movement during the war.

According to Britannica , Tito established a federation consisting of six republics, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Montenegro and Macedonia, along with two autonomous provinces within Serbia.

Unlike most Eastern European communist states, Yugoslavia pursued an independent path during the Cold War. Tito broke with Soviet leader Joseph Stalin in 1948, allowing Yugoslavia to operate outside the Soviet bloc while still maintaining a socialist system.

The country later became a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement, positioning itself between the Western and Soviet camps.

Yugoslavia covered roughly 255,800 square kilometres and stretched from the Adriatic Sea to the Balkan interior, encompassing mountains, coastlines and fertile plains.

Iran: A state rooted in ancient civilisation

Iran’s history stretches back thousands of years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited political regions in the world. The country was historically known as Persia, home to powerful empires such as the Achaemenid Empire , founded by Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BCE, which once ruled territory from the Mediterranean to Central Asia.

Modern Iran began to take shape during the 20th century under the Pahlavi dynasty, which pursued rapid modernisation and centralisation of the state. In 1979, however, the Iranian Revolution transformed the country into an Islamic republic following the overthrow of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.

The revolution, led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, reshaped Iran’s political system and its relationship with Western powers.

Today, Iran is one of the largest countries in the Middle East, covering about 1.65 million square kilometres, according to the World Bank and CIA World Factbook. Its geography includes vast deserts, major mountain ranges such as the Zagros and Alborz, and strategic access to the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.

Although Yugoslavia and Iran share surprisingly similar outlines on a map, their physical geographies and political histories developed independently.

Yugoslavia’s borders were shaped largely by European treaties, ethnic distributions and post-war political arrangements, while Iran’s boundaries reflect centuries of imperial expansion and negotiations with neighbouring states.

Cartographers often point out that such similarities are simply the result of how natural features, coastlines and historical borders intersect over time.

The dissolution of Yugoslavia

While Iran remains a single nation-state, Yugoslavia no longer exists. After the death of Tito in 1980, economic instability and rising nationalism weakened the federation. The country ultimately collapsed during the Yugoslav Wars of the 1990s, which followed the declarations of independence by several republics.

Between 1991 and 2006, Yugoslavia gradually fragmented into the independent states known today as Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro and Kosovo.

According to the 2026 Global Navy Index , the United States Navy remains the most capable naval force in the world, even as China commands the largest fleet by ship count.

The Global Navy Index evaluates naval strength on a 0–100 scale, measuring overall combat capability rather than simply the number of vessels. The ranking considers factors such as fleet composition, advanced technology and combat effectiveness.

The United States Navy ranks first with a score of 100, reflecting its unmatched ability to operate across multiple oceans simultaneously. While the U.S. does not possess the largest fleet in raw numbers, it maintains a powerful combination of aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines and advanced destroyers that allow it to project power globally.

The American fleet included 20 capital ships and 146 major combatants in 2026, with 241 ships counted in the core fleet measured by the index. Carrier strike groups, supported by long-range missiles and sophisticated surveillance systems, give the U.S. Navy a level of operational reach no other maritime force currently matches.

China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ranks second in overall capability with an index score of 94, but it stands out as the largest navy in the world by number of vessels.

China’s fleet includes 157 major combatants and more than 1,000 vessels in total, a dramatic expansion driven by the country’s rapid shipbuilding programme over the past two decades.

Beijing has invested heavily in modern destroyers, submarines and aircraft carriers as part of a strategy to secure maritime trade routes and strengthen its influence in the South China Sea and the wider Indo-Pacific region.

Russia occupies third place in the ranking with a score of 75. The Russian Navy operates 79 major combatants and nearly 480 vessels overall, supported by a significant submarine fleet.

Although Russia retains formidable capabilities, particularly in nuclear-powered submarines and missile systems, analysts note that parts of its surface fleet are ageing and undergoing gradual modernisation. Moscow continues to focus its naval strategy on areas such as the Arctic, the North Atlantic and the Black Sea, where it seeks to maintain strategic influence.

North Korea’s navy ranks fourth in the index with a score of 72, largely due to the size of its fleet. The Korean People ’s Army Naval Force operates around 385 vessels, including 75 major combatants, though it lacks large capital ships.

Most of these vessels are smaller patrol ships, submarines and coastal defence craft designed for regional operations rather than long-distance power projection.

Several Asian powers are strengthening their maritime forces as strategic competition intensifies in the Indo-Pacific.

Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force ranks fifth, with an index score of 60. The Japanese fleet includes 75 major combatants and around 154 ships, with a strong emphasis on advanced destroyers, missile defence systems and submarine warfare. Japan’s naval strategy focuses heavily on safeguarding vital sea lanes and maintaining stability in East Asia.

India follows in sixth place with a score of 51. The Indian Navy operates two capital ships, 41 major combatants and roughly 290 vessels in total. India has been steadily expanding its naval capabilities to secure the Indian Ocean region, which carries a large portion of the world’s maritime trade.

Other countries appearing in the ranking include South Korea, Turkey, Indonesia and Finland, each maintaining naval forces designed primarily for regional defence and maritime security.

South Korea’s navy operates 52 major combatants and around 155 ships, while Turkey maintains 191 vessels and 30 major combatants, reflecting its strategic position between the Mediterranean and Black Sea.

Indonesia fields a large fleet of 326 vessels, emphasising maritime patrol across its vast archipelago, while Finland maintains a coastal defence navy of around 200 vessels focused on Baltic security.

In contrast, Latin America, Central America and large parts of Africa remained more focused on football-related searches, underscoring the sport’s deep cultural influence in these regions.

The data comes from Google Trends, which tracks the relative popularity of search terms rather than the total number of searches. Countries on the map are coloured according to which term generated greater interest, while colour intensity reflects the proportion of searches for the most popular term within each location during the selected time period.

Spikes in search interest often occur when major international events dominate headlines. As geopolitical tensions rise or diplomatic developments unfold, news coverage and social media discussions tend to drive audiences online in search of context and updates.

Tensions between Iran and the United States escalated sharply at the end of February 2026 after a series of military strikes that pushed the long-running rivalry into open conflict.

On 28 February 2026, the United States and Israel launched coordinated air and missile strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities , military infrastructure and senior leadership in what Washington described as a campaign to neutralise Iran’s missile capabilities and prevent it from developing nuclear weapons.

The attacks triggered an immediate response from Tehran. Iran launched missile and drone strikes against Israel and several US military installations across the Middle East, including bases in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.

The operation marked a dramatic escalation of a dispute that had been building for weeks during tense nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

In the days following the initial strikes, the confrontation widened into a broader regional conflict. US and Israeli airstrikes continued to hit Iranian targets, while Iran and its allied groups retaliated with attacks across the Middle East.

Missile strikes and drone attacks have targeted energy infrastructure, embassies and military bases, raising fears that the conflict could disrupt global oil supplies and destabilise the region further. Iran currently reports a death toll of over 1000 people from the strikes.

Still, football continues to dominate searches across many regions. In countries such as Brazil , Argentina and several African nations, the sport regularly drives online traffic during domestic leagues, international tournaments and major transfer periods. With billions of fans worldwide, football remains the most widely followed sport on the planet.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz bent down to take a closer look. The scene was rich in symbolism: more than 30 years ago, German experts came to China with blueprints and Siemens machine tools, teaching local factories how to achieve precision manufacturing. Today, the German chancellor has come in person, seeking a new support point for German industry at the intersection of artificial intelligence and humanoid robotics.

This shift in vantage point reflects a profound adjustment in Berlin’s China policy . If the defining theme of the Olaf Scholz era was the defensively framed notion of “de-risking,” then Merz’s first visit to China in the Year of the Horse signals that Germany is moving into a more pragmatic and bold phase - a phase of “re-calibration.”

Farewell to the “De-risking” Illusion

When the idea of “de-risking” first emerged, it was seen as a way for Europe to maintain a “middle ground” and save face amid the strategic rivalry between China and the United States. But as a new wave of tariffs rolls in with the “Trump 2.0” era, Berlin has come to realise that if it were to sever its ties with the world’s largest market, German industry would not truly “de-risk.” Instead, stripped of scale effects and innovation sources, it would face the risk of functional decline.

Merz’s itinerary in China - from Hangzhou to Beijing - is a concrete enactment of this “re-calibration.” “Calibration” here no longer means simply reducing dependence, but achieving a defensive form of symbiosis through “deep embedding.” His appearance at Siemens Energy’s plant in Hangzhou sent a clear signal: rather than pacing anxiously outside the walls, Germany would do better to become an indispensable technological node in China’s forthcoming “15th Five-Year Plan.”

Xi Jinping’s “Three Points” and Strategic Steadiness

At the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping put forward “three points” to Merz, providing a Chinese frame of reference for this “re-calibration” of China–Germany relations.

Reliable partners : Against the backdrop of growing scepticism in Washington toward the multilateral trading system, Beijing has stressed “mutual support,” hoping Germany will continue to play the role of a stable “guardian of order.”

Innovation partners : This cuts right to Germany’s core position. Whether it is BMW integrating DeepSeek’s reasoning capabilities, or Siemens collaborating with Shanghai Electric to advance the green and digital transformation of power grids, China and Germany are trying to build a new industrial standard of “German precision plus Chinese algorithms.”

People-to-people partners: This is aimed at repairing the social and cognitive rifts widened by ideological narratives.

Embedded within these “three points” is a core logic: in a geopolitical landscape marked by overlapping turbulence, the stability of China–Germany ties is itself a strategic asset that can hedge against external uncertainties.

Joint Statement: Growing Up in Competition

The “China–Germany Joint News Statement” issued during the visit charted the course for this round of policy re-calibration.

First, the statement defines bilateral ties as an “all-around strategic partnership,” emphasising that their economic and trade relations should be long-term, balanced, reliable and sustainable. For Germany, this is a defensive framework designed to buffer the shocks of Trump-style unilateralism.

Second, the two sides explicitly wrote their respective concerns into the joint document, no longer sidestepping problems in the relationship. In other words, China–Germany ties are entering a more mature stage in which competition and cooperation co-exist: the goal is no longer to avoid friction, but to “manage competition” through institutionalised consultation mechanisms.

“German Hardware, Chinese Soul”

Merz did not just bring home an order for up to 120 Airbus planes. A deeper shift is unfolding at the technological foundations. BMW is leveraging Alibaba’s ecosystem and DeepSeek’s algorithms to redefine “driving pleasure,” while at Siemens Energy’s plant in Hangzhou, the German chancellor saw a complete local value chain that spans R&D, engineering design, manufacturing, testing and validation, project execution, and operations and maintenance.

China is no longer just an important market for German companies; it has become a pillar of their global supply chains, and of their innovation and manufacturing systems. Siemens Energy is working with Chinese partners to tap markets in the Middle East, Central Asia, the Asia-Pacific and Latin America . German firms once embraced the motto “In China, for China,” but a more accurate description today would be “In China, for the world.”

When Merz watched the humanoid robot in Hangzhou write that character “Fu,” the scrutinizing look in his eyes may well have captured Germany’s current state of mind: a mix of urgency about China’s technological surge, and anticipation for a new order of future cooperation.

Du Yubin is a reporter and chief editor at China Global Television Network (CGTN). He previously served two six-year postings in Washington D.C. and London, focusing on coverage of China–US and China–Europe relations, and has worked in international communication and digital media for over 15 years. The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author

Flexibility was a crucial strategy in navigating this uncertainty, as exporters redirected shipments towards neighbouring Asian markets and Europe, reducing reliance on the US without stalling overall trade.

“The region’s resilience has been driven by redirecting trade toward alternative markets, which has sustained export growth even as shipments to the United States have declined in some economies,” the ADB said. 

China offers the clearest example. Although its exports to the US fell by nearly 20% in 2025, its global exports still grew. Shipments to other Asian economies and to the European Union and United Kingdom rose strongly, offsetting losses from the American market. 

Japan and South Korea followed a similar path, recording modest declines in US-bound exports but continued global growth.

Elsewhere, performance was even stronger. Taiwan posted the region’s fastest export growth at 35%, driven by soaring global demand for semiconductors linked to artificial intelligence. 

Exports to the US surged, despite tariffs, as buyers prioritised access to advanced chips over higher costs. Several Southeast Asian economies, including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand, also reported double-digit export growth.

Three-pronged strategy

According to the report, three strategies helped firms cope with the new tariff regime. Some exporters absorbed higher costs to retain access to the US market. Others redirected goods to alternative destinations, particularly within Asia. A third group routed trade through tariff-exempt partners such as Canada and Mexico under the USMCA framework.

Asian economies continued moving up global value chains, focusing on higher value-added and more upstream activities. Deeper regional production networks helped cushion shocks from external policy changes and kept factories running.

“The region also continues to structurally upgrade within global value chains, moving into more upstream, higher value-added activities and deepening regional production networks,” the ADB said.

However, the ADB warned that heavy reliance on imported inputs leaves supply chains vulnerable to disruption, while rising geopolitical tensions are pushing up trade costs. Tariffs on metals have already raised production expenses, with pharmaceuticals and semiconductors also exposed.

To sustain resilience, the report urged: “The region should thus promote product and partner diversification, deepen and effectively implement trade agreements, and strengthen trade facilitation and logistics cooperation.”

A new map from The World in Maps outlines projected journey times and shows how cities from Lisbon to Tallinn, Stockholm to Athens could be connected through faster, integrated rail corridors. If delivered as proposed, the network would mark one of the most ambitious transport transformations in EU history.

The high-speed expansion aligns with the European Commission’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) policy, which aims to build a modern, interoperable transport system across EU member states. The revised TEN-T regulation, politically agreed in 2023, sets binding deadlines for completing core corridors by 2030 and an extended comprehensive network by 2050.

According to the European Commission, high-speed rail is central to achieving the EU’s climate targets under the European Green Deal, which seeks to cut transport emissions by 90% by 2050. Rail already produces significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions per passenger kilometre than aviation or road transport, making it a cornerstone of decarbonisation strategy.

The Commission has also designated 2021–2030 as Europe’s “Digital and Green Decade” for transport investment, with billions of euros channelled through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) to co-finance cross-border rail infrastructure .

What the proposed travel times suggest

The visual projection highlights significantly reduced journey times between major European cities:

Many of these reductions depend on upgrading existing lines to high-speed standards and eliminating bottlenecks at border crossings, long recognised as weak points in Europe’s rail system.

For example, the long-anticipated Rail Baltica project , supported by the EU and currently under construction, aims to connect Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius and Warsaw via a high-speed standard-gauge line. The European Commission confirms this corridor as a priority TEN-T project intended to better integrate the Baltic states into the wider EU rail network.

Similarly, improvements between Berlin and Prague, and onward to Vienna and Budapest, fall within the North Sea–Baltic and Orient/East-Med core corridors outlined by the EU.

Aviation currently dominates many short-haul European routes. However, the European Environment Agency consistently reports that rail emits far less CO₂ per passenger kilometre compared to flights. As part of the EU’s “Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy”, the Commission aims to double high-speed rail traffic by 2030 and triple it by 2050.

Cross-border fragmentation has historically limited Europe’s rail competitiveness. Different signalling systems, track gauges, and national regulations have slowed integration. The rollout of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is intended to standardise signalling and improve cross-border efficiency.

The Commission argues that a fully interoperable network would make rail the default choice for journeys under 1,000 kilometres, a distance that covers much of mainland Europe.

For international audiences, the message was clear. America First remains firmly in place.

Back to Plan A

Trump not only defended the use of import duties after the Supreme Court ruled that he had exceeded his authority in imposing sweeping across-the-board raises, he promised more.

"So despite the disappointing ruling, it's saving our country ... many of the wars I've settled was because of the threat of tariffs , I wouldn't have been able to settle them without. [They] will remain in place under fully approved and tested alternative legal statutes."

Although the ruling insisted that revenue-raising was a matter for Congress, Trump told the chamber he wouldn't be needing their consent for the new measures.

For trading partners, this was intended to be a clear signal that legal obstacles at home will not soften Washington’s trade stance. Trump went further, reviving a long-held claim that tariffs could replace income tax revenue altogether. "I believe the tariffs paid for by foreign countries will, like in the past, substantially replace the modern-day system of income tax."

Economists dispute that foreign countries bear the full cost of tariffs, but the political message was blunt: the era of predictable US trade policy is not returning any time soon.

Iran and the magic words

The sharpest foreign policy focus was Iran. The United States has built up its largest regional military presence since the Iraq war, amid rising tensions over Tehran’s nuclear programme and missile development.

Trump framed Iran as an existential threat. "For decades, it had been the policy of the United States never to allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon. Many decades. Since they seized control of that proud nation 47 years ago, the regime and its murderous proxies have spread nothing but terrorism and death and hate. They've killed and maimed thousands of American service members and hundreds of thousands and even millions of people… this is some terrible people. They've already developed missiles that can threaten Europe and our bases overseas, and they're working to build missiles that will soon reach the United States of America."

While expressing a preference for diplomacy, he drew a firm red line. "My preference is to solve this problem through diplomacy. But one thing is certain, I will never allow the world's number one sponsor of terror, which they are by far, to have a nuclear weapon."

Immigration and crime

Immigration remains central to Trump’s domestic and international messaging. He declared: "After four years in which millions and millions of illegal aliens poured across our borders totally unvetted and unchecked, we now have the strongest and most secure border in American history by far. In the past nine months, zero illegal aliens have been admitted to the United States. But we will always allow people to come in legally, people that will love our country and will work hard to maintain our country."

He also linked immigration to crime and social disorder, inviting into the chamber families who had become victims.

And he didn't forget to mention his favourite theme, frauds perpetrated by some members of the Somali community: "The Somali pirates who ransacked Minnesota remind us that there are large parts of the world where bribery, corruption, and lawlessness are the norm, not the exception."

For many countries, particularly in Africa and Latin America , such rhetoric reinforces the perception of a United States that sees migration primarily through a lens of threat rather than opportunity. Trump insisted that he was ready to welcome in people who love the US, although in the past he has indicated that the ones he would like to see coming are from Norway, Sweden or white South Africans.

Military prowess

Trump balanced his hard-line positions with repeated praise for the armed forces. "Our military and police are stacked." "We have the most powerful military on Earth." "we love our military."

At the same time, he renewed sweeping claims about his role as a peacemaker. "In my first 10 months, I ended eight wars, including Cambodia and Thailand; Pakistan and India - would have been a nuclear war - 35 million people, said the Prime Minister of Pakistan, would have died if it were not for my involvement; Kosovo and Serbia; Israel and Iran; Egypt and Ethiopia; Armenia and Azerbaijan; the Congo and Rwanda; and of course the war in Gaza which proceeds at a very low level."

Some of those conflicts - Serbia and Kosovo, Ethiopia and Egypt - were either long-running diplomatic tensions or disputes that had not escalated into full-scale wars. For Trump, it didn't matter. He was the bringer or war or peace.

The broader message

Taken together, the speech offered a message of continuity rather than change. Whether that will be enough to revive the president's flagging approval ratings remains to be seen. And if it doesn't, the world may experience a new phase of America First.

World Reframed is produced in London by Global South World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

ISSN 2978-4891

The southern states of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg emerge as corporate powerhouses.

In Bavaria, cities like Munich and Ingolstadt are anchors for automotive giants such as Audi and BMW. Just to the west in Stuttgart (Baden-Württemberg), the global headquarters of Mercedes-Benz Group and engineering group Porsche AG sit alongside high-tech suppliers like Bosch and automation specialist KUKA.

These firms are central to Germany’s reputation as the world’s leading exporter of vehicles and machinery, a status backed by federal data showing that automotive and mechanical engineering account for significant portions of national exports.

This region also houses SAP, Germany’s most valuable tech company and one of the largest enterprise software makers globally, headquartered in Walldorf.

Moving northwest, the state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) stands out for its industrial diversity.

City hubs such as Cologne, Düsseldorf and Essen host companies ranging from chemical and pharmaceutical firms to logistics players.

Corporations like Henkel (consumer goods), Deutsche Post DHL Group (logistics and shipping) and RWE (energy) anchor the region, which historically developed through coal and steel before evolving into a modern services and industrial base.

The Ruhr Valley, once Europe’s industrial heartland, continues to host major employers and head offices tied to manufacturing, chemicals and power generation, a reflection of how Germany has transitioned from heavy industry to high-tech and sustainability-focused sectors.

In the north, port cities like Hamburg and Bremen appear as hubs for shipping and trade. Hapag-Lloyd , one of the world’s largest container shipping companies, is headquartered in Hamburg, as are major logistics and trade firms. The North Sea ports are central to Germany’s external trade, handling cargo flows that connect Europe with Asia and North America.

Though historically industrial regions east of the old Berlin Wall lagged in corporate headquarters, the map shows new growth sectors.

Berlin, the capital, has become a centre for tech start-ups and digital media companies. While traditional industrial headquarters are fewer than in other regions, Berlin’s influence is rising through innovation and venture capital investment.

In eastern states like Saxony and Thuringia, specialised engineering and cleantech firms have headquarters there, mirroring national efforts to expand renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo maintains its position at the top of Africa’s copper hierarchy. With roughly 30,000 tonnes of identified reserves, the DRC remains the continent’s largest exporter of copper, with China and the UAE among its biggest destinations.

Exports to China alone are valued in the hundreds of millions of dollars annually, underscoring the critical role Congolese copper plays in global manufacturing and clean energy supply chains.

The importance of the DRC’s copper sector is more than anecdotal. According to broader market research, the country accounted for around $19.8 billion in copper exports in recent years, more than double that of its nearest African competitor, Zambia, and serves as a linchpin for key global markets in Asia and the Middle East.

Zambia follows closely as Africa’s second most significant copper exporter, with around 20,000 tonnes of reserves. Major consumers for Zambian copper include Switzerland and China, reflecting deep integration into European and Asian metal markets.

Copper is central to Zambia’s economy, making up about 70% of total export earnings and fuelling broader economic activity at home. Mines such as Kansanshi and Lumwana have been long-standing pillars of production in the region, supporting both local industry and foreign trade.

South Africa and Namibia round out the list of Africa’s key copper exporters, with 13,000 and 11,000 tonnes of reserves, respectively. India and China are among South Africa’s principal export markets, while Belgium and Germany figure prominently in Namibia’s trade mix.

Though smaller in volume than the DRC or Zambia, both countries contribute significantly to regional supply chains and are positioning themselves for future growth through exploration and mining partnerships.

Copper is not ordinary but an essential in renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, telecommunications and industrial infrastructure, sectors that are expected to drive demand for decades. Africa’s copper reserves, particularly in the DRC and Zambia, sit along the great African Copperbelt, a mineral belt that runs from the Copperbelt Province of Zambia into the mineral-rich regions of southeastern DRC.

The African Minerals Development Centre (AMDC), established by the African Union to implement the Africa Mining Vision, frames this resource wealth not just as a source of export earnings but as a foundation for industrial transformation. The Centre’s mandate encourages policies that promote value addition, responsible mining, and the strategic use of revenues to support sustainable development across the continent.