One key driver of the expected bumper harvest is the increase in land under cultivation. According to the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), farmers have planted more than 162,000 hectares this season, up 42 percent from about 114,000 hectares last year.

Industry officials say improved planning, stable policies and stronger contract farming arrangements have encouraged more growers to expand production. “The increase in planted area demonstrates renewed confidence by growers in the tobacco sector,” said TIMB chairperson Patrick Devenish.

Another major factor is the shift toward domestic financing. The government says 67 percent of tobacco funding now comes from local banks and financial institutions, compared to a heavier reliance on foreign contractors in the past.

Under cooperation models such as Zimbabwe-China partnerships, both smallholder and commercial farmers have gained better access to capital and inputs.

“Zimbabwe not only surpassed production targets, but also significantly increased the localisation of tobacco financing,” said Lands and Agriculture Permanent Secretary Professor Obert Jiri.

Favourable rainfall has also helped, but farmers are increasingly relying on irrigation systems such as the locally developed Smart Pfumvudza model, which costs under $2,000 and allows earlier planting while reducing the risks of dry spells.

In addition, new drought-tolerant tobacco varieties developed by Kutsaga Research are boosting yields. Under proper farming practices, farmers can now achieve between 2,500 and 5,000 kg per hectare.

The country has already surpassed its 300 million kg target under the National Development Strategy and is now aiming for 400 million kg by 2028. Currently, only about 10 percent of tobacco is processed locally, though that is up from just 2 percent in previous years.

“US diplomats confirm to me that the 15% tariff reversal came into effect on November 13, 2025, following President Trump’s new Executive Order,” the foreign minister stated.

Ghana, with a population of about 34 million, is the second largest producer of cocoa globally, behind Côte d'Ivoire.

Its annual cocoa exports to the United States are estimated at 78,000 metric tons. With the current global price at $5,300 per metric ton, the country is expected to generate an additional US$60 million (approximately GHS667 million) in annual revenue following the tariff removal.

In addition to cocoa, the tariff removal also applies to several other Ghanaian agricultural exports, including cashew nut, avocado, banana, mango, orange, lime, plantain, pineapple, guava, coconut, ginger, and various types of pepper.

This development follows President John Dramani Mahama’s earlier disclosure on October 1 that Ghana was in active negotiations with the U.S. to address the tariff. The 15% duty had been introduced by President Trump on July 31 through an executive order, causing concern among Ghanaian exporters and policymakers.

President Mahama noted that the negotiations also covered the possible renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which previously allowed duty-free access for certain African exports to the U.S.

“Negotiations are ongoing with regard to the trade tariffs of 15% and the renewal of AGOA, which was a zero per cent tariff on African nations, and so those negotiations are still ongoing,” President Mahama said.

AGOA expired on September 30, 2025, after providing 25 years of preferential access for eligible sub-Saharan African countries to the U.S. market.

The cancellation of the tariff comes at a time of changing diplomatic relations between Ghana and the United States. This period includes Ghana’s agreement to receive nationals deported from the U.S. under President Trump’s immigration enforcement policy.

University lecturers in Nigeria have emerged among the worst paid in Africa, with professors earning an average of $366 (about ₦500,000) monthly. Findings by local publication Punch show that Nigerian professors earn around $4,400 annually, far behind their South African counterparts who make $57,471 yearly. Other African nations with far smaller economies, including Eswatini, Lesotho, Gabon, Sierra Leone, and Comoros, pay higher. Lecturers in Nigeria have warned that the disparity is worsening brain drain, poor morale, and the flight of academics to government, private, and foreign institutions.

Deportation dispute as U.S., Ghana, and Nigeria clash over returnees

Confusion surrounds the deportation of 14 West Africans from the United States to Ghana. While Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said the 13 Nigerians and one Gambian were subsequently repatriated to their home countries on humanitarian grounds, lawyers for four deportees insist they remain in Ghana. Nigeria’s government has also pushed back, saying it was not briefed about its nationals being sent to Ghana, a move critics argue raises legal and diplomatic questions.

UN warns of worsening school closures in West and Central Africa

Nearly 15,000 schools have been shut across West and Central Africa, disrupting the education of more than 3 million children, according to a new UN report. The closures are linked to growing insecurity, conflict, and displacement, with Nigeria and Cameroon worst affected. In Cameroon’s Anglophone regions, more than 80% of schools are closed, affecting over 600,000 children, while in Nigeria, nearly 500 schools remain shut. UNICEF and the Norwegian Refugee Council warn that girls are particularly vulnerable, with risks of child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and gender-based violence rising.

Solar-powered recycling plant

A new solar-powered recycling plant has been launched in Onne, Rivers State, by West Africa Container Terminal (WACT)-APM Terminals Nigeria in partnership with Garbage In Value Out (GIVO). The facility can process up to 300 kilograms of plastic waste daily — about 90 metric tons annually. Community members will also earn income by exchanging plastic waste. Project leaders said the initiative will cut 2,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions, create jobs for local youth, and provide a sustainable solution to drainage blockages in the maritime community.

Dangote Refinery exports first gasoline cargo to U.S.

Nigeria’s Dangote Refinery has exported its first gasoline cargo to the United States, marking a milestone in the country’s refining and global trade ambitions. About 320,000 barrels of gasoline were shipped aboard the Gemini Pearl tanker and discharged at Sunoco’s Linden terminal in New York Harbour. The sale, brokered through Mocoh Oil and global trader Vitol, highlights the refinery’s ability to meet strict U.S. fuel standards. The shipment expands Dangote’s export reach, which had previously focused on Europe and West Africa.

Egypt has significantly boosted its potato exports to Russia in the first quarter of 2025, sending 274,500 tonnes, a dramatic increase from 59,300 tonnes in 2024. Russia overall imported 432,200 tonnes of potatoes, nearly four times the previous year's volume. Additionally, Egypt exported 13,000 tonnes of onions to Russia, showing a notable increase from 7,600 tonnes in 2024. This export surge follows discussions led by Sergey Dankvert of Rosselkhoznadzor and Egyptian officials regarding mutual agricultural trade, amidst a backdrop of rising potato prices in Russia.

Decline of Egypt's donkey population raises health concerns

Egypt's donkey population has plummeted from 3 million in the 1990s to below 1 million, prompting public health concerns as reports of illegal slaughter for meat emerge. Hussein Abu Saddam of the Farmers’ Union highlighted the issues in a recent interview, citing modernisation and high maintenance costs as key factors driving the decline, along with a booming black market for donkey hides. Egypt Today reports that despite donkey meat's prohibition, it reportedly ends up in restaurants, sparking fears among consumers regarding food safety and animal welfare. 

Egyptian cinema shines at Cannes Film Festival

At the 78th Cannes Film Festival, Egyptian cinema garnered attention with the screening of 'Aisha Can't Fly Away,' by Morad Mostafa, featured in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section. The film offers a poignant examination of refugee life in East Cairo and showcases notable performances, Dawn reports. Alongside prominent Arab figures in attendance, Egypt also reinstated its Al-Mahrousa Pavilion to promote the national film industry and foster global networking opportunities.

Egypt sentences prominent dissident to six months in prison

Egypt has handed a new six-month prison sentence to opposition figure and former presidential hopeful Hisham Kassem for defaming a former labour minister, his lawyer told AFP. The sentence, issued in absentia as Kassem is currently abroad, comes months after he was released in February 2024 following a previous six-month jail term that barred him from running in the December 2023 presidential election. Kassem was reportedly not informed of the new charges, which his lawyer described as “very concerning.” Human rights groups have condemned the ruling , calling it a politically motivated attempt to silence dissent.

Egypt purchases 2.5 million tonnes of wheat from local farmers

As of this season, Egypt has procured 2.5 million metric tons of wheat from local farmers, indicating a slight increase compared to 2024. Despite a reduction in cultivated wheat areas, the government anticipates purchasing between 4 and 5 million tonnes to ensure national bread supply, backed by a 10% price rise for farmers. Egypt plans to import an additional 6 million tonnes to sustain its heavily subsidised bread programme for over 69 million citizens.

The recent data from China's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) provides insight into the ongoing impacts of these trade tensions on the country's economic recovery. With existing challenges comprising low consumer spending and a crisis in the property market, the data reflects that industrial output increased by 6.5 percent in the first quarter compared to a figure of 5.7 percent in the previous quarter. Furthermore, retail sales, which serve as a critical indicator of consumer demand, rose by 4.6 percent year-on-year.

Despite the positive growth rates, the NBS cautions that the global economic landscape is evolving into a more complex and severe environment. They emphasized the need for enhanced growth and consumption measures, stating, "The foundation for sustained economic recovery and growth is yet to be consolidated". The bureau called for "more proactive and effective macro policies " to address the challenges ahead.

Tanzania's economic landscape shows encouraging signs as the current account deficit for the year leading up to August 2024 has narrowed to US$2.57 billion from US$3.85 billion the previous year. This improvement is attributed to robust export growth, particularly in goods and services, which reached US$15.06 billion, driven by a surge in tourism and significant exports of gold, tobacco, and horticultural products. Traditional exports totalled US$1.1 billion, while non-traditional exports soared to US$6.57 billion, with gold exports alone witnessing an 8.2% increase to US$3.19 billion. Additionally, service receipts, primarily from travel and transport, contributed US$6.95 billion, reflecting a marked 21.7% rise in tourist arrivals, IPP Media reports.

First PPP power transmission project

Tanzania is also advancing its energy infrastructure, currently negotiating with two foreign entities for its inaugural Public-Private Partnership (PPP) power transmission projects, valued at an impressive $1.2 billion. Currently, power transmission remains solely under the control of Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO). With aspirations to draw lessons from successful PPP models in Latin America and Asia, the government faces notable challenges such as regulatory barriers and skills shortages in governmental agencies. These PPP initiatives aim to enhance electricity access and reliability while reducing transmission losses and costs for consumers. As reported by Daily News , despite benefiting from an overarching electricity surplus, the government has earmarked $1.9 billion for the enhancement of transmission infrastructure, addressing ongoing issues in power accessibility.

Longest bridge in East Africa opened

In another pivotal development, Tanzania has inaugurated the Magufuli Bridge, now recognised as East Africa's longest bridge, standing at 3.2 kilometres across Lake Victoria in the Mwanza region. Constructed for £240 million ($300 million) by Chinese contractors, this bridge connects the Misungwi and Sengerema districts, entirely financed by the Tanzanian government. Although construction began in December 2019, it was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with completion achieved on October 6, 2023. This infrastructure is set to significantly bolster regional connectivity with neighbouring countries such as Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda, ranking among Africa's top ten longest bridges. The bridge has been named to honour the late President John Magufuli, who first envisioned the project.

Importance of conservation

The creative sector, particularly film, also plays a role in Tanzania's socio-economic development. Filmmaker Aika Kirei is utilising her animated series "Chiku and Katope" as a medium to educate primary school students about environmental conservation. VOA reports that through this innovative storytelling approach, Kirei aims to instil a sense of environmental stewardship in young viewers, highlighting the vital importance of sustainability and conservation efforts for future generations.

Economic boost

Furthermore, the economic contributions from Barrick Gold's Twiga partnership, encompassing the North Mara and Bulyanhulu gold mines, significantly bolstered the Tanzanian economy, accounting for 51% of the government's revenue from the extractive sector. According to the latest assessments by Mining Review Africa , these mines have excelled in safety initiatives, with Bulyanhulu being the recipient of an Occupational Safety and Health Award. Barrick Gold is actively conducting exploration efforts aimed at replenishing and expanding its mining reserves, whilst concurrently identifying new mining opportunities. The initial phase of the Barrick-Twiga Future Forward Education initiative has seen an investment of $10 million into local school infrastructure, with further investments planned.

In the first eight months of 2023, Vietnam's exports of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products reached $40.08 billion, with imports standing at $28.28 billion. This resulted in a notable trade surplus of $11.8 billion, reflecting a significant 68.4% increase compared to the previous year. The US has overtaken China as the primary market for Vietnam's exports, accounting for $8.58 billion (21.4% of total exports) and marking a 23.5% increase. Meanwhile, exports to China reached $8.17 billion (20.4%), up 10.2%, Saigon News reports.

Commemoration of 79 th National Day

Vietnam celebrated its 79th National Day on September 2, 2024, with various countries participating in celebrations. Lao Ambassador to France Kham-Inh Khitchadeth on his visit to the Vietnamese Embassy in France praised Vietnam's socio-economic development, while Vietnamese Ambassador Đinh Toàn Thắng pledged to enhance collaboration between the two embassies. The Japanese celebration was held by the Vietnamese Consulate General in Osaka, with the Japanese Deputy Governor expressing gratitude for Vietnam's contributions to bilateral relations. The Vietnamese Embassy in Pakistan hosted a gathering with nearly 200 attendees, where Ambassador Phạm Anh Tuấn articulated Vietnam's commitment to independent foreign relations and the long-standing partnership with Pakistan since their diplomatic ties were established in 1972, Asian News Network reports. 

Enterprises urged to quickly adapt to EU Deforestation Regulation

Vietnamese enterprises have been called upon to swiftly adapt to the EU's Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which came into force in June 2023. This regulation prohibits the importation of products associated with deforestation or forest degradation, retroactively applied since December 31, 2020. According to VietnamNet Global , major commodities affected include timber, rubber, and coffee, which collectively account for over $2.5 billion in exports to the EU.

Over 6 million tonnes of rice exported in eight months

Vietnam achieved a notable export of 6.16 million tonnes of rice during the first eight months of 2024, marking a 5.9% increase compared to the previous year and generating nearly $3.85 billion in revenue, up 21.7%. The average export price rose to $625 per tonne. The Southeast Asian country aims to surpass eight million tonnes in rice exports, targeting a revenue of $5 billion, The Star reports. 

Intensified storm poised to impact northern Vietnam

The intensified Storm Yagi is expected to impact northern Vietnam, with maximum wind speeds projected to rise from 88 kph to 166 kph within a few days. By Thursday, September 5, the storm will be near Hainan Island, with winds expected to peak at 149 kph, according to VN Express . The northeastern East Sea will confront significant winds and waves measuring 3-5 metres starting Tuesday, September 3. It is anticipated that the storm will sustain its intensity while traversing into the Gulf of Tonkin. In response, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has urged coastal provinces to contemplate beach closures and consider evacuating residents from high-risk zones.

The government of Lesotho has approved the importation of poultry meat from Brazil. Negotiations began in November of last year. Lesotho imports approximately 8,000 tons of poultry meat annually. Brazil exports poultry products to 172 countries, constituting 38% of the global trade in this product. Last year, Brazil's poultry exports surpassed $9.61 billion, totalling 5 million tons. Since the beginning of 2023, Brazil has expanded its export markets to include 121 new agricultural products in 51 countries across five continents. The achievement is the result of coordinated efforts between the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Constitutional reforms

Lesotho is once again tackling key constitutional reforms to stabilise its turbulent political landscape, but a new obstacle has emerged: a disagreement between the government and parts of civil society on the approach. Last week, Law and Justice Minister Richard Ramoeletsi introduced the long-awaited Tenth and Eleventh Amendments to the Constitution Bills, which the previous government under Prime Minister Moeketsi Majoro failed to pass before the 2022 elections. While the current government aims to amend the existing constitution, some civil society organizations, including the Transformation Resource Centre (TRC), advocate for drafting a new one. According to News24 , the TRC criticized the government for "continued misdirection against sound counsel and advisory to its political leadership on astute principles of engagement in constitutionally legitimate reform procedures," arguing that the Bills represent a "dismemberment of the constitution's original design."

Houses donated to workers

40 houses were donated to families living in Kgubetswana Township in Clarens, Free State, as part of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. The houses were originally built for project staff and were intended to be sold, but due to affordability issues, they were donated to the original occupants. According to SA News , the current value of the houses is between R380,000 and R640,000, and the transfer of ownership is being finalised. The project aims to provide water to South Africa’s Gauteng region and generate hydroelectricity for Lesotho, with Phase II expected to be completed by 2028.

Diamond mine sale

Lucapa Diamond is selling its 70% stake in the Mothae mine in Lesotho to focus on its core assets in Africa and Australia. The mine produces large, high-value diamonds and has attracted significant interest from potential buyers. The company also holds a stake in the Lulo mine in Angola and is involved in exploration projects in several countries. The diamond industry has faced challenges due to excess stockpiles and the growing popularity of laboratory-made diamonds, as reported by the Northern Miner .

Lesotho nationals arrested for money laundering

Four Lesotho nationals are in police custody following their arrest for possession of suspected stolen property and money laundering. According to Algoa FM , police spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh reported that Sesing Tsabane, 32, was the first suspect arrested last week in Orkney, where he was found with chemicals used to wash dye-stained notes. The investigation then led police to another house, where Letlala Elias Qabano, 36, Joshua Molibeli, 34, and Molefe Abel Fusi, 26, were arrested. A substantial amount of dye-stained money was discovered at the scene. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), there is a possibility that these men could be linked to ATM bombings. The case has been postponed to May 27th in the Klerksdorp Magistrates Court.

Bangladesh's economy is facing three major risks, including persistent inflation, a growing debt burden, and slow economic growth, according to the Centre for Policy Dialogue. The high inflation is impacting low-income and marginalised individuals' ability to afford basic needs, while the increasing reliance on borrowing for debt servicing is raising the debt-to-GDP ratio. "The government's loan from domestic sources is almost double compared to the foreign debt, which is a sign of big problems. We know that around $5 billion in debt is unpaid in the energy sector," said Debapriya Bhattacharya a fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue. Additionally, slow economic growth is shrinking the government's fiscal space for spending, the Daily Star reports.

Educational institutions reopen amid heatwave challenges

Bangladesh’s educational institutions have reopened amid heatwave challenges, with authorities closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff, according to local media Somoyo . The Bangladesh Ministry of Education has implemented stringent measures to mitigate risks associated with the heatwave, including limiting assembly on school premises and preventing students from engaging in educational activities outside the classroom. The decision to reopen educational institutions was initially scheduled for April 21, but due to the severity of the heatwave, they were declared closed on April 20.

India lifts onion export ban

India has lifted its ban on onion export to Bangladesh but imposed a 40% export duty on the product. The removal of the ban is unlikely to help tame the price of onion in Bangladesh due to existing higher duties, experts suggest. The Indian government has allowed shipments to India's friendly nations, including the UAE and Bangladesh, according to the Financial Express . The Bangladesh government requested the Indian government to permit 50,000 tonnes of onion export in March. However, the price of onion increased by 30-40% in a month during its peak harvest season in the country. Imports from India through private channels have remained halted for the last four months due to the export ban, the Financial Express reported.

Record foreign ships dock at Bangladesh's Mongla Port

Mongla Port, the second largest port in Bangladesh has seen eight commercial foreign ships dock , setting a record since its establishment. Notable vessels anchored at the port included Liberian-flagged Maersk Hai Phong, Singaporean-flagged Kota Tenaga, and MV Kota Rancak. The port's progress is advancing due to government efforts and port authority initiatives with over 55 development projects completed by the government. Mongla Port's role in driving economic progress is highlighted by a robust annual growth rate of around 20% in port utilisation.

Embassy in Washington welcomes Bangla New Year

Bangladesh Embassy in Washington celebrated the Bangla New Year on May 4. The event led by Bangladesh Ambassador to the US Muhammad Imran featured a cultural show showcasing Bangladesh's rich culture and heritage. According to the Daily Sun , the Ambassador encouraged Bangladeshis living abroad to spread awareness of their country's rich history, culture, and legacy while also instilling a sense of patriotism and the spirit of the historic Liberation War. The full-day event, which featured traditional Bangladeshi dishes, stalls selling traditional handicrafts, banners and brochures commemorating the South Asian nation's independence, language movement, and development, drew well over 5,000 foreign visitors and locals, the Daily Sun reports.

What they said

Representing the Kenyan High Commissioner to Tanzania, Co-chair of the meeting from Kenya Rabson Wanjala iterated the commitment of both countries towards fostering trade relations and ensuring increased trade in the region. Acting Director of veterinary services in Tanzania’s Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Benezeth Lutege Malinda said Tanzania is ensuring that all trade-facilitating agencies focus on resolving issues, particularly non-tariff barriers that hamper trade. “We remain committed to tackling these challenges and fostering an environment conducive to seamless trade between Kenya and Tanzania,” he was quoted by The East African as saying.

The countries included in the expansion plan are Oman, Somalia, Lebanon, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

The commissioner overseeing employment services at the ministry Lawrence Egulu, revealed that a recent bilateral labour agreement was signed between Uganda and Qatar, spearheaded by Minister of Gender, Betty Amongi. This agreement is geared towards ensuring the safe migration of workers.

Egulu highlighted the focus on skilled workers in these agreements, including drivers, security personnel, teachers, plumbers, and architects, diversifying the job categories beyond domestic work. He emphasized Uganda's capacity to provide skilled labour and move away from solely supplying domestic workers.

Statistics from the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development indicate that between 2016 and 2023, over 269,452 Ugandan migrant workers ventured to 11 countries for employment opportunities. Among these workers, females accounted for 225,693, while males numbered 43,759. Saudi Arabia emerged as the top destination, predominantly for domestic work.

Despite security concerns, Somalia has also attracted Ugandan workers, particularly in the security sector, with 3,254 migrants heading there in the past eight years.

Minister Amongi is expected to explore additional opportunities in the United Kingdom, Canada, Turkey, Germany, and Poland, aiming for better salaries and improved working conditions for Ugandan laborers.

“We may receive up to 20 complaints per month of all kinds including runaways. The cases have definitely gone down. They are not as outrageous as they used to sound,” said Egulu.

To address issues of mistreatment and fatalities among migrant workers, the government has implemented the External Employment Management System to monitor their welfare. In 2023, the ministry received 868 complaints from Ugandan workers abroad, with efforts to address the cases ongoing.

As part of ongoing initiatives, the government plans to introduce a mobile app to assist Ugandan workers in reporting challenges while abroad. Migrant workers will be required to have smartphones with this app installed, further enhancing their ability to seek assistance and support when needed.

The project is spearheaded by Uganda-based mining and mineral trading company Woodcross Resources and is estimated to be commissioned in May 2024.

 "We are preparing to launch our very first tin processing facility. They will be refining tin to over 99% in terms of its purity,” Irene Bateebe, a top official of the energy and mineral development ministry was quoted by Reuters on April 3.

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni hopes that the move will maximise the profits of exports to the country, where many gold refineries are in operation, and Chinese-backed Sunbird Resources was just granted a license to mine limestone for cement manufacturing.

Vietnam is experiencing political upheaval and anti-corruption purges, leading to the resignation of its president and a leadership vacuum. This has raised concerns about the country's stability and reputation, particularly as factions within the ruling Communist Party vie for position ahead of a crucial party congress in 2026, Fox News reported. The resignation of President Vo Van Thuong comes amidst an intense anti-corruption campaign.

Data centre market

In addition to the political developments, Vietnam's data centre market is rapidly growing, with domestic companies leading the way. The market value surged to over 1 billion USD last year, and major players like Amazon Web Services have announced projects in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. According to local media agency Vietnam Plus , although there are challenges such as a lack of global-scale infrastructure and skilled labour, experts believe large-scale projects in southern provinces could be particularly successful.

Investments

PepsiCo commits to sustainable business practices as it plans to invest $400 million in Vietnam to build two new manufacturing facilities powered by renewable energy sources. This investment further strengthens Vietnam's position as an attractive destination for international businesses seeking to expand their operations, reports media agency Live Mint .

Carbon credits

Vietnam has received a payment of US$51.5 million from the World Bank for reducing deforestation and forest degradation, resulting in the largest single payment for verified carbon credits. This success is attributed to the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF), which has supported Vietnam's efforts to reduce emissions and enhance forest carbon stocks, according to reports from media agency The Star . The program's impact is expected to benefit forest owners and neighbouring communities, as well as contribute to Vietnam's climate commitments, allowing the country to sell excess credits in the global carbon market.

Rubber exports

Vietnam's rubber exports in February reached 110,000 tonnes and generated over 160 million USD in revenue. The total for the first two months of 2024 amounted to 320,000 tonnes, worth 458 million USD, with China remaining the largest buyer, media agency Live Mint reports. The increase in exports to major international markets, along with rising rubber prices due to heightened demand for tyres in China, has contributed to the substantial revenue from rubber exports.

US Army soldier Korbein Schultz has been arrested on charges of selling sensitive military information, including documents detailing potential US actions regarding Taiwan. Schultz, an intelligence analyst, was also accused of conspiring to obtain and disclose military defence information and bribery of a public official. The 24-year-old was arrested at Fort Campbell, Tennessee, shortly after the indictment was released. “The men and women of the United States Armed Forces dedicate their lives to maintain our national security… Our laws protecting national defence information are critical to that mission and they must be enforced. Illegal dissemination of national defence information puts our country, our fellow citizens, members of our military and our allies at risk,” said US Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee Henry Leventis.

Rise of exports

Taiwan's exports increased by 1.3% in February, marking the fourth consecutive month of growth. The total reached US$31.43 billion, with The Taiwan Ministry of Finance citing AI as the main reason for the surge. However, electronic parts and machine tools exports declined, and metals, plastics, and chemical products experienced contractions. Despite the Lunar New Year holidays, imports fell 17.8%, leaving Taiwan with a positive trade balance of US$7.89 billion, Taiwan News reported.

Review of Indian workers MOU Labour rights advocacy groups in Taiwan on March 9 called for a substantive review of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Taipei and New Delhi on making India a source of migrant workers in Taiwan. The MOU, which could potentially recruit up to 100,000 Indian workers, has been met with backlash after Bloomberg reported in 2023 that it could recruit up to 100,000 workers, Focus Taiwan reports. The Taiwan International Workers' Association member Hsu Wei-tung called for the MOU to be subject to a substantive review, similar to economic treaties between Taiwan and other countries. According to Hsu, some lawmakers have called for a government-to-government (G2G) model for the recruitment of Indian workers, arguing that this could help Taiwan establish a G2G recruitment system and renounce the labour brokerage system. Taiwan's Labor Ministry plans to clarify its recruitment channels, including a G2G model, regarding Indian workers during future meetings with the Indian government, Focus Taiwan reported.

Food safety investigation

Taiwan's Control Yuan is investigating the country's food safety mechanism to protect public health following the discovery of toxic dyes in chilli powders. According to three Control Yuan members, the investigation will focus on the Asian nation’s existing inspection system and preventive measures to address public concerns. The government authority is looking into the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation's shortcomings and seeing whether any changes can be made, Focus Taiwan reports. The chilli powder case in the country led to the recall of several food products and temporary bans on chilli and curry powder in school lunches.  As of March 7, 127,089.2 kg of chilli powder and related goods have been taken off the shelves, according to Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration.

Taiwan Lantern Festival

The 2024 Taiwan Lantern Festival has reached its peak crowds, with over 15 million total visitors. Along with an increase in visitors and 230 additional trains, the festival, which started on February 4, has also resulted in the establishment of a control centre and emergency response team at some Taiwan Railway offices to facilitate the movement of people and offer on-site support if needed, local media Liberty Times reports. The annual event hosted by the Tourism Bureau in Taiwan includes a Pokémon GO City Safari event area, with many Pokémon players entering the area at noon.

Minister of Hydrocarbons Bruno Jean Richard Itoua who was at the launch said the project which is the first of its kind in the hydrocarbon sector will not only turn the country’s energy history but promote wealth creation, employment, and economic growth in the country.

The project was spearheaded by Italian Energy company ENI Group, with an investment of 5 billion dollars, implementation of new infrastructure, and optimization of existing ones but was done in partnership with the Congo Petroleum Company.

CEO of ENI Group Claudio Descalzi noted that gas which represents the future will significantly impact the country’s fortunes.

“Today we come together to celebrate the history built over years of work and investment. Congo and ENI began developing gas several years ago, transformed into sustainable electrical energy for its population and its industry,” he said. For the first time, we have succeeded in launching the exploitation of liquefied natural gas from the Congolese coast thanks to innovative technologies used for the first time in Africa. As ENI, we believed in the development of gas in the early 2000s when no one was yet thinking, researching, or developing. A long story but not always simple, made of negotiations and investments but at the base a continuous collaboration with our partners and especially with Congolese institutions,” he was quoted by local news outlet Vox .

“Whether it concerns operation and production or projects linked to the development of the power plant and the electricity network, President Denis Sassou N'Guesso believed, because he had a clear vision that gas represented the future and development of the country with a particularly significant impact on the social fabric,” he continued.

The development places Congo among the ranks of liquified natural gas (LNG)-producing countries globally.

Meanwhile, ENI Group CEO Descalzi has noted that the first cargo ship loaded with LNG will move to the Italian regasification plant in the Tuscan town of Piombino in the coming days.

What they said

A statement from the military junta read, "This suspension follows the need to clean up the sector and reflects the government's desire to better organise the marketing of gold and other precious substances.” The junta further asserted that this action is aimed at addressing inefficiencies and guaranteeing that the nation's abundant natural resources contribute to the country's overall prosperity. This decision unfolds against a backdrop of heightened examination of artisanal mining practices. While these practices sustain the livelihoods of millions, they have faced criticism for causing environmental harm and playing a role in regional conflicts.

Ho Chi Minh City, the largest financial centre in Vietnam is constructing a smart traffic management system using advanced technologies to combat traffic congestion and reduce accidents. The city is the first to build a smart traffic operation centre, which was operational in 2019, Vietnam Plus reports. According to Vietnam Plus, Doan Van Tan, Director of the Urban Traffic Management and Operations Center under the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transport said that the department intends to construct a comprehensive traffic management and operation centre with all functions compliant with the city's traffic development directives.

Bike sharing programme

Hue City in central Vietnam has relaunched its public bike-sharing programme, with 200 bicycles stationed at seven locations in the city. The programme which was restarted on January 21 by local authorities in partnership with Vietsoftpro, a software solution company based in Vietnam plans to deploy 1,000 bicycles across 30 stations by September 2024. This revival of the bike-sharing program follows a successful pilot phase conducted from June to December 2022, during which about 12,000 bike rides were recorded, local media the Saigon Times reports. The city intends to create a more bicycle-friendly environment by building bike lanes and improving the infrastructure for cycling, according to the Saigon Times.

Extreme cold weather

A second cold front has caused extremely cold weather in Northern Vietnam with lows of almost zero degrees Celsius. According to the Vietnam National Centre for Hydrometeorological Forecasting, the extremely cold weather is moving southward and could persist for four to five days in north-central locations. On January 21, the Department of Education and Training in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam asked schools to give students a break when the temperature falls below 10 degrees Celsius, local media Tuổi Trẻ News reported.

Fruit and Vegetable exports

Vietnam's vegetable and fruit exports reached $459 million in the first half of January 2024, an 89% increase from 2023. This growth is attributed to improved quality and diverse options, particularly in China and the European Union. According to the Saigon Times , Vietnam plans to expand its export portfolio by introducing exotic fruits to China. In 2023, export revenue reached $5.6 billion, a 167% increase from 2022, with China being the largest buyer, the Saigon Times reported.

Vietnam-Romania to strengthen trade ties

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Romanian Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu have set goals to tighten trade relations. The two PMs urged more Vietnamese and Romanian companies to increase their investment in each other's markets to double bilateral trade by 2030, Tuổi Trẻ News reports. Romanian Prime Minister Ciolacu at a Forum held in the Romanian capital of Bucharest on January 22 said that Romania is interested in cooperation in industries such as IT, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food. According to Tuổi Trẻ News, the Vietnamese PM also suggested that businesses from the two nations utilise the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and Investment Protection Agreement to enhance collaboration in sectors like mechanical engineering, specialized machinery, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, renewable energy, and automobile manufacturing.

However, Algeria managed to sustain its role as a key supplier of gas in the Spanish market, Algerie Focus reported.

In the Spanish gas market, Algeria surpassed major competitors like the United States and Russia. Algeria exported 94.9 terawatt hours (TWh) of natural gas through the Medgaz pipeline in 2023, solidifying its leadership position.

The United States maintained its standing as the second-largest gas supplier to Spain, claiming a 21.1% market share, while Russia increased its gas exports to Spain, securing an 18.3% market share.

Data from Spanish gas network operator Enagás further indicates that the country’s imports of natural gas and liquefied gas experienced a significant decline in 2023, dropping from 446.6 TWh in 2022 to 398.0 TWh in 2023. This overall decrease was attributed to reduced demand, shifts in the energy mix, and environmental considerations.

Meanwhile, the discussions surrounding the future use of fossil fuels as one of the main causes of global warming was a key topic amongst world leaders in this year's climate change conference known as "COP28" in Dubai.

The Republic of Azerbaijan started exporting gas to Europe in 2020 and currently supplies gas to European countries including Greece, Italy, Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia in addition to Georgia and Turkey.

Mr. Aliyev announced that his country will export 24 billion cubic meters of gas this year, half of which will be delivered to five European customers, and this number will double in the next few years.

Azerbaijan gas replaced Russian gas in these countries as sanctions imposed on Russia in the aftermath of the Ukraine war alienated European customers.

According to the agreement signed between the European Commission and the government of Baku last summer, Azerbaijan will increase gas exports to European countries to 20-25 billion cubic meters by 2027.

Azerbaijan is in the process of negotiating and signing gas export agreements with five other European countries.

Considering the drop in its oil production, Azerbaijan has started a wide campaign to diversify the country's economy, including the development of transit corridors for foreign goods, electricity, and gas exports, as well as the development of agriculture and the tourism sector.

Radio Farda reported from Elham Shaban, director of the Caspian Oil Studies Center in Baku, that last year, for the first time, Azerbaijan's gas export revenues exceeded oil exports.

According to him, the Republic of Azerbaijan and the United States of America started industrial oil production for the first time in the world about 170 years ago, and Baku produced half of the world's oil in 1900.

"This country's oil reserves are running out and Over the past 10 years, the country's crude oil production has halved. The Republic of Azerbaijan is trying to move from the era of oil to gas, solar, and wind energy," he said.

The Republic of Azerbaijan has also significantly increased its electricity exports and signed contracts with international giants such as France's Total, Britain's BP, and even the UAE's "Masdar" to set up solar and wind power plants with a capacity of 10,000 megawatts, to export clean electricity to Europe.

The Republic of Azerbaijan has committed to providing 60% of the country's electricity from clean, non-fossil sources by 2030 and reducing greenhouse gas production to zero by 2050.

In the draft resolution of the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP28, the Republic of Azerbaijan is introduced as the host of next year's climate change conference. Previously, Bulgaria was nominated to host the 29th COP but was opposed by Russia.

The survey, conducted by 12 economists, suggests that outbound shipments from the fourth-largest economy in Asia are expected to have increased by 5.5 percent in October compared to the same month in the previous year. This marks a turnaround from the 4.4 percent decline observed in September and ends a 12-month streak of export declines that extended through September.

The growth in October is believed to be driven by strong shipments to the United States and a rebound in semiconductor exports. Additionally, base effects are providing some support after a year-long downturn, as noted by economists. Nevertheless, the persistent weak demand in China remains a challenging factor.

"South Korea's export recovery will likely continue into next year," said Chun Kyu-yeon, an economist at Hana Securities.

"Robust trends are continuing in U.S. and EU-bound shipments, although China-bound exports still remain sluggish."

During the initial 20 days of this month, South Korea recorded a 4.6 percent increase in the value of its exports compared to the same period in the previous year. Shipments destined for the United States surged by 12.7 percent, while exports to China experienced a decline of 6.1 percent.

Furthermore, imports are expected to have decreased by 4.3 percent in October compared to the previous year, a milder decline than the 16.5 percent drop in September, marking the least severe contraction in eight months, as indicated by the survey.

This is anticipated to result in a trade deficit for October, ending a streak of four consecutive surplus months. The survey's median projection suggests a deficit of $2 billion, representing a significant shift from the $3.7 billion surplus reported in September.

South Korea is set to release its monthly trade data for October on Wednesday, November 1, at 9 a.m. (0000 GMT).

The US Department of Commerce is suspending the export of most US-manufactured firearms to Thailand and other significant markets for a period of 90 days. Additionally, they are conducting a review of their involvement in the country's largest gun trade show to ensure that it aligns with their policies, according to Bangkok Post. Bloomberg has conducted an extensive investigation over several months, focusing on the effective strategies employed by the US gun industry to boost the worldwide sales of their products, alongside the supportive policies of the United States.

House committee to conduct a study on the feasibility of legal casino complexes

The House of Representatives has established a 60-member committee to investigate the potential opening of entertainment complexes , which may include casinos, as a solution to the issue of illegal gambling establishments and to stimulate the nation's economy. This proposal was put forward by Members of Parliament from different political parties, according to Bangkok Post. Notable proponents of this motion include Thoedchart Chaipong, a Pheu Thai MP representing Chiang Rai, Non Paisanlimcharoenkij, an MP from the Move Forward Party representing Nonthaburi, and Chatchawal Kong-udom, an MP from the United Thai Nation Partylist.

Thai gov't eyes international investors

The Finance Ministry is contemplating the issuance of bonds on the global market as a means to set a standard for the country and draw in foreign investors. This marks a notable shift from a policy that has been in place for three decades, according to Bangkok Post. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat revealed that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has directed the Public Debt Management Office (PDMO) to explore the possibility of issuing foreign bonds with the aim of establishing a reference point for the private sector in their efforts to raise foreign capital.

Thai’s policy rate good for now, but worries about ongoing conflict in the Middle East

Thailand's central bank governor stated that the current policy rate is well-suited for the country's economy, but he emphasized the bank's preparedness to make "modifications" as required. He raised caution about growing global risks and uncertainties related to the Middle East situation, according to Reuters. Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput shared on Saturday that the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia is still anticipated to achieve growth close to the projected 2.8% for this year, although third-quarter growth might turn out to be more subdued than initially anticipated.