ECONOMY

Tightened controls against cheap E-Commerce platforms

BERLIN – The German government has adopted an E-Commerce Action Plan that enforces stricter controls on international online platforms such as Temu and Shein. The goal is to secure fair competition and protect domestic retailers from unfair business practices. Additionally, … Continue reading Tightened controls against cheap E-Commerce platforms

China’s breakthrough AI model shakes global markets

HANGZHOU – DeepSeek, a mainland China based company, has made headlines with the release of its open-source AI chatbot, R1. Positioned as a significant step forward in China’s pursuit of technological leadership, R1’s release has sparked intense international interest. Within … Continue reading China’s breakthrough AI model shakes global markets

Indonesia Joins BRICS: A Strategic Step

JAKARTA – On January 7, Indonesia formally joined BRICS, becoming the first Southeast Asian country to join the intergovernmental bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Indonesia’s entry follows BRICS’ recent expansion to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and … Continue reading Indonesia Joins BRICS: A Strategic Step

Vietnam Poised to Become Regional Tech Hub

HANOI – Vietnam is positioning itself as a major manufacturing and technology hub in Southeast Asia, with foreign direct investment (FDI) flowing into the country at an unprecedented rate. In 2024, FDI into Vietnam reached nearly $31.4 billion, marking a … Continue reading Vietnam Poised to Become Regional Tech Hub

ASEAN 2025: Focus on “Inclusivity and Sustainability”

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia will assume the Chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2025 under the theme “Inclusive and Sustainable.” This significant year marks the 10th anniversary of the ASEAN Community and represents a turning point … Continue reading ASEAN 2025: Focus on “Inclusivity and Sustainability”