China responding more aggressively to EU tariffs than similar US measures, a reflection of its greater leverage over the bloc

Green, clean development and semiconductor chip production are among the sectors in Vietnam that foreign investors are interested in, according to VinaCapital CEO and Founding Partner Don Lam.

Global goods trade is projected to post a 2.7% increase in 2024, up slightly from the previous estimate of 2.6%, WTO economists said in an updated forecast on 10 October. The volume of world merchandise trade is likely to increase by 3.0% in 2025; however, rising geopolitical tensions and increased economic policy uncertainty continue to pose substantial downside risks to the forecast. Services trade has a more favourable outlook compared to goods according to leading indicators

However, India has recently loosened its export restrictions, raising concerns that Vietnamese rice will have to compete more fiercely in the context of falling prices and lower domestic supply.

Improving the rice quality, diversifying markets, and building a recognisable and trustworthy brand identity for Vietnamese rice are among measures for Vietnam to boost its rice exports, said Secretary of All India Spices Importers Federation (AISIF) Hiren Gandhi.

European luxury shares have slid on investor concerns that Hermes handbags and Dior slingbacks may be Beijing's next targets for retaliation, following the EU's decision to slap tariffs on China EVs, but analysts say such a move is unlikely.

There is much debate about how the macro environment, including the elections in the U.S. and monetary policy changes in key economies, might impact the fight against climate change. However, a key aspect of meeting clean energy targets will be the development of a de-risked global supply chain capable of delivering both materials and components to support the rapidly expanding demand.

Donald Trump has vowed to renegotiate the USMCA free trade agreement with Canada and Mexico if he wins the November presidential election.

The UAE and Malaysia have officially concluded negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), aimed at eliminating or reducing tariffs, lowering trade barriers and fostering collaboration between private sectors while opening new investment pathways.

AAN has become the second Vietnamese rice brand to have entered Japan, with a ceremony held on October 9 to debut the produce.