Other Briefings
U.S. and New Zealand to Challenge Indonesian Agricultural Restrictions at WTO
The United States has announced it will request a new World Trade Organization dispute settlement consultation with Indonesia over licensing requirements for the import of agricultural products.
Indonesia to Relax Tax Burden on Mineral Exports
The Indonesian government is finalizing a set of new regulations that will reduce the export tax on mineral concentrates for mining companies operating in the country. In order to avail the reduced export taxes, eligible mining companies must agree to build a smelter in Indonesia.
Singapore’s Trade Minister Talks Up Free Trade Agreements
Singapore’s Trade Minister praised the city-state’s participation in regional and global trade deals that will help position the country as a nexus for international business.
Praise for the U.S. – Philippines Partnership for Growth
During his visit to the Philippines last week, U.S. President Obama reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to economic cooperation with the Philippines and highlighted the ongoing role of the U.S.-Philippines Partnership for Growth for continued economic and policy support.
Vietnam Online – Understanding Vietnam’s E-commerce Market
Vietnam, like much of Asia, has a growing middle class which, in-turn, is spawning a strong consumer culture. Within the country, e-commerce is fast becoming the preferred method of shopping, particularly among the young.
Singapore–Barbados DTA Comes Into Effect
The newest of Singapore’s now 75 double taxation agreements (DTA), signed between the city-state and the island nation of Barbados, went into effect on Friday last week. The agreement is expected to boost cross-border trade and investment between Singapore and Barbados by clarifying both parties’ taxation rights so as to avoid double taxation.
May 2014 ASEAN Regional Meetings
There are a number of important ASEAN regional meetings taking place in May, including the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement Joint Committee Meeting and the ASEAN Labour Ministers Meeting.
RMB Builds Presence in ASEAN as Singapore Becomes Second Largest Clearing Center
Singapore has reclaimed the ranking of second largest clearing center for Renminbi in the world. Only Hong Kong has a greater share of the market.
An Introduction to Doing Business in Vietnam 2014 (Second Edition)
An Introduction to Doing Business in Vietnam 2014 (Second Edition) provides readers with an overview of the fundamentals of investing and conducting business in Vietnam. This guide explains the basics of company establishment, annual compliance, taxation, human resources, payroll, and social insurance in the country.
Internet Speeds Across ASEAN
According to the results of an analysis by ASEAN DNA, only two ASEAN member states – Singapore and Thailand – currently have internet speeds above the global average of 17.7 Mbps.
