分类: business

  • Argentina eyes expansion of beef exports to China

    Argentina eyes expansion of beef exports to China

    Argentina is strategically positioning China as the cornerstone of its beef export expansion, driven by evolving Chinese consumption patterns and increasing demand for diverse meat products. According to the Argentine-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, China accounts for 78 to 80 percent of Argentina’s annual beef exports, solidifying its role as the primary market for Argentine meat producers. This trend was highlighted at the recent Expo Ganadera del Centro, a major livestock fair in Buenos Aires, where Alejandra Conconi, the chamber’s executive director, emphasized China’s pivotal role in Argentina’s international meat trade. Trade data from Argentina’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries reveals that in 2024, the country exported over 900,000 metric tons of beef, with China purchasing approximately 595,000 tons. Sebastian Schulz, a researcher at the National University of La Plata, attributes this growing demand to China’s socio-economic transformation, including its focus on balanced development and the goal of achieving ‘common prosperity.’ As China’s middle class expands and dietary preferences diversify, Argentine producers are finding new opportunities in previously undervalued products such as cull cows and offal, which now command higher prices in the Chinese market. Additionally, Argentina’s participation in the Belt and Road Initiative is fostering deeper agricultural collaboration and technology transfers, which Schulz describes as ‘strategically important’ for balancing trade deficits and promoting mutual benefits. Looking ahead, Argentina is also exploring exports of bovine genetics and embryos, a high-value segment where the country holds global recognition. The diversification of beef, pork, and by-products is seen as crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of Argentina’s meat sector. Amadeo Derito, vice-president of the Argentine Angus Association, noted that exports of certified Angus beef to China have continued to grow, with 1,700 tons certified in the first three quarters of 2024, primarily catering to premium markets.

  • Macao’s 3 exhibitions drive industrial development with over 140 deals

    Macao’s 3 exhibitions drive industrial development with over 140 deals

    The Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) recently hosted three major exhibitions that concluded with remarkable success, fostering industrial development and international cooperation. The 2nd China-Portuguese-Speaking Countries Economic and Trade Expo (Macao), the 30th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair, and the Macao Franchise Expo 2025, organized by the SAR’s Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM), wrapped up on Saturday, October 25, 2025. These events collectively generated over 140 signed agreements and 68 business expansion projects. Among the participating companies, 24 have already initiated or completed procedures to establish new businesses. The exhibitions attracted more than 85,000 visitors, including 15,000 trade visitors and professional buyers, significantly supporting Macao’s ‘1+4’ economic diversification strategy. Nearly 80% of the agreements were linked to key industries targeted by this strategy. Additionally, approximately 15% of the deals involved Portuguese-speaking Countries (PSCs), underscoring the event’s role as a crucial platform for China-PSC collaboration. The success of these exhibitions highlights Macao’s growing influence as a hub for international trade and investment, further driving economic diversification and regional cooperation.

  • Brazilian farmers beef up soybean production as China halts business with US during trade fight

    Brazilian farmers beef up soybean production as China halts business with US during trade fight

    In Santa Cruz do Rio Pardo, Brazil, farmer Andrey Rodrigues has shifted gears to ramp up soybean production for the upcoming harvest, driven by the escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and China. The Trump administration’s trade war has effectively blocked American soybeans from the Chinese market, creating a golden opportunity for Brazilian producers. Over the past two months, Chinese buyers have aggressively sought Brazilian soybeans, signaling a willingness to purchase as much as possible. This surge in demand has fueled optimism among Brazilian farmers, who are now preparing to meet China’s needs. According to China’s customs data, the country imported no U.S. soybeans in September, a stark contrast to previous years. Brazilian soybeans already dominate China’s imports, accounting for over 70% of the market, while the U.S. share has dwindled to 21%. Rodrigues, who chairs the soybean farmers association in São Paulo, is seizing the moment by expanding production at his Morada do Sol farm. He emphasizes the need to act swiftly, selling futures for the next harvest to capitalize on the current demand. Brazil’s Agriculture Ministry predicts a 3.6% increase in soybean production for the next harvest, driven by China’s insatiable appetite. However, analysts caution that China’s interest in Brazilian soybeans may be a short-term strategy to retaliate against the U.S. Meanwhile, American farmers are grappling with the loss of the Chinese market, focusing on alternative buyers and domestic uses for their crops. Despite the challenges, some U.S. farmers remain resilient, adapting to the shifting political and economic landscape. Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has strengthened ties with China, further bolstering the soybean trade. Yet, farmers like Rodrigues stress the importance of harmony in global trade, advocating for a balanced approach that benefits all parties.

  • The striking Swedish workers taking on carmaker Tesla

    The striking Swedish workers taking on carmaker Tesla

    In Sweden, a protracted labor dispute between Tesla and its workforce has reached a critical juncture. For two years, 70 car mechanics, represented by the Swedish union IF Metall, have been on strike at Tesla’s 10 service centers across the country. The strike, which began on October 27, 2023, centers on the union’s demand for a collective agreement to negotiate pay and working conditions on behalf of its members—a cornerstone of Sweden’s industrial culture. Despite the ongoing industrial action, Tesla has continued operations by replacing striking workers, a move unprecedented since the 1930s. Janis Kuzma, a 39-year-old mechanic from Latvia, has been on the picket line since the strike’s inception. He describes the experience as grueling, especially as Sweden’s harsh winter sets in. IF Metall provides basic support, including a mobile van for shelter and refreshments, but the standoff shows no signs of resolution. Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, has been vocal in his opposition to unions, describing them as divisive and detrimental to company culture. This stance has put Tesla at odds with Sweden’s labor norms, where 70% of workers are unionized, and 90% are covered by collective agreements. The strike has garnered international attention, with unions in neighboring countries like Denmark, Norway, and Finland refusing to handle Tesla vehicles or provide services. Despite the disruption, Tesla’s popularity in Sweden remains unaffected, with owners still able to purchase, service, and charge their vehicles. Analysts suggest that Tesla’s refusal to concede is driven by Musk’s aversion to external influence and the potential ripple effect of unionization in its U.S. and German facilities. With both sides entrenched, the conflict shows no signs of abating, raising concerns about the future of labor relations in Sweden and beyond.

  • China to firmly promote high-level opening-up, continuously optimize business environment, says Premier Li

    China to firmly promote high-level opening-up, continuously optimize business environment, says Premier Li

    During his official visit to Singapore on October 26, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized China’s commitment to advancing high-level opening-up, easing market access, and continuously optimizing the business environment. Speaking at a China-Singapore business roundtable, Li highlighted the importance of addressing enterprises’ concerns to foster mutual growth and prosperity. The event, attended by Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, underscored the deepening economic ties between the two nations. Li reflected on the 35 years of fruitful cooperation between China and Singapore, noting that their development presents significant opportunities for each other. He stressed that mutual respect, trust, and open cooperation are key to shared prosperity. Li also pointed to recent milestones, such as the mutual visa exemption agreement and the upgraded free trade agreement, as catalysts for future collaboration. Looking ahead, Li outlined three strategic areas for enhanced cooperation: transitioning from complementary elements to collaborative innovation, expanding bilateral efforts to tripartite cooperation with regions like ASEAN and Africa, and jointly leading the formulation of global rules in emerging sectors like digital and green industries. Li also highlighted China’s robust economic foundation and its commitment to treating domestic and foreign enterprises equally. Gan Kim Yong echoed these sentiments, reaffirming Singapore’s dedication to advancing a high-quality partnership with China. Business representatives from both countries expressed optimism about China’s development prospects and pledged to deepen cooperation in finance, digital economy, green development, and more.

  • GCC-Stat: Gulf economy records positive growth in Q1 2025

    GCC-Stat: Gulf economy records positive growth in Q1 2025

    The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economies demonstrated a strong performance in the first quarter of 2025, according to the latest data released by the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab Countries of the Gulf (GCC-Stat). The region’s nominal GDP surged to $588.1 billion, marking a 5.7% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Real GDP also saw a notable rise, reaching $466.2 billion, with an annual growth rate of 3.0%. This upward trend underscores the region’s ongoing economic stability and commitment to sustainable development. The oil sector remained the largest contributor to GDP at 22.9%, followed by manufacturing (12.7%) and wholesale and retail trade (9.6%). Other activities accounted for 26.7% of the total GDP, highlighting the success of economic diversification initiatives. The report emphasized that these positive results reflect the GCC countries’ continued efforts to enhance non-oil sectors, ensuring long-term economic stability and growth.

  • Is India-US tariff pact targeting $500b trade closer?

    Is India-US tariff pact targeting $500b trade closer?

    India and the United States are on the brink of finalizing a groundbreaking trade agreement that could elevate bilateral commerce to $500 billion by 2030, more than doubling the current trade value of $191 billion. This long-awaited deal, which has been in negotiation since February 2025, aims to address trade imbalances, reduce punitive tariffs, and expand market access across goods, services, digital trade, and clean-energy technology.

  • India defies tariff turbulence, set to outpace major economies with 6.6pc growth: IMF

    India defies tariff turbulence, set to outpace major economies with 6.6pc growth: IMF

    India is poised to maintain its status as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projecting a robust growth rate of 6.6% for the fiscal year 2025–26. This upward revision, from the previous forecast of 6.5%, highlights India’s economic resilience in the face of global trade uncertainties and rising protectionism. The IMF’s latest Regional Economic Outlook for Asia attributes this momentum to strong second-quarter performance and the successful implementation of GST 2.0 reforms, which have enhanced tax compliance, formalisation, and fiscal efficiency. Despite challenges posed by higher US tariffs, India’s diversified growth base—driven by services exports, infrastructure investment, digital transformation, and domestic consumption—is expected to cushion the impact. In contrast, China’s GDP growth is projected to moderate to 4.8% in 2025, weighed down by structural property-sector issues and weak domestic demand. The broader Asia-Pacific region is forecast to expand by 4.5%, contributing nearly 60% of global output growth. The IMF cautioned that Asia’s economic momentum could soften due to the ripple effects of US tariff hikes, which are already prompting exporters to front-load shipments. However, India’s reforms, including GST 2.0, improved logistics, and fiscal prudence, are expected to sustain medium-term expansion. The IMF also emphasised the need for Asian policymakers to deepen regional integration, reduce trade barriers, and improve productivity through better capital allocation. By 2026, India is projected to account for over 18% of Asia’s GDP expansion and nearly a fifth of global incremental growth, solidifying its role as a key pillar of stability and optimism in the region.

  • Founder Connects to host ‘Spotlight’ networking event at Paramount Hotel Midtown

    Founder Connects to host ‘Spotlight’ networking event at Paramount Hotel Midtown

    Dubai’s dynamic innovation landscape will take center stage on October 30 as Founder Connects hosts its premier networking event, ‘Spotlight,’ at the Paramount Hotel Midtown. Known for its cinematic elegance and creative atmosphere, the hotel’s Melrose Bar & Lounge will be transformed into a vibrant hub where innovation and conversation converge. The event will bring together founders, investors, and creative minds in a Hollywood-inspired setting, fostering meaningful connections and collaboration. Pascal Eggerstedt, Director of Paramount Hotel Midtown, emphasized the event’s alignment with the hotel’s vision to create immersive spaces where creativity thrives and genuine connections flourish. ‘Spotlight’ aims to redefine professional networking by blending storytelling, innovation, and authentic engagement. Strategically located in Business Bay, near key commercial hubs like the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the hotel provides an ideal backdrop for the region’s boldest entrepreneurial voices. Dubai’s growing reputation as a global events hub further amplifies the significance of the occasion. The city has hosted major international gatherings, including GITEX Global 2025, which attracted over 6,800 exhibitors, 2,000 startups, and 1,200 investors from 180 countries. ‘Spotlight’ will offer a hybrid experience, starting with curated virtual one-on-one sessions in the morning and transitioning to in-person networking at the Melrose Bar & Lounge in the evening. The event’s cinematic ambiance is designed to encourage deeper dialogue and lasting partnerships, moving beyond traditional networking to foster authentic conversations and collaborative energy. As Dubai solidifies its position as a global capital for entrepreneurship and innovation, events like ‘Spotlight’ underscore the city’s commitment to nurturing talent and bridging ideas with capital. With its unique blend of glamour, strategy, and purpose, ‘Spotlight’ is set to become a standout fixture in the region’s business calendar.

  • Dubai tenants turn to ownership, boosting demand for affordable luxury homes

    Dubai tenants turn to ownership, boosting demand for affordable luxury homes

    Dubai’s real estate market is witnessing a significant transformation as rising rental costs drive long-term tenants toward homeownership, particularly in the mid-market, affordable luxury segment. Developers are capitalizing on this trend by launching projects that combine design, functionality, and value, especially in emerging communities like Liwan, Arjan, and Dubai South. Symbolic Developments, the real estate arm of Speedex Group, recently unveiled its fourth residential project, Symbolic Altus, in Liwan. Valued at Dh150 million, the development features 108 fully furnished apartments, including 1 BHK Elite and 2.5 BHK Panorama units, starting at Dh999,000. Scheduled for handover in Q3 2027, the project emphasizes ‘elevated living’ with all amenities located on the rooftop. This launch follows the success of Symbolic Alpha, the developer’s first project in Liwan, which saw over 30 per cent appreciation and higher-than-average rental yields. Murtaza Moiz, Vice Chairman of Symbolic Developments, highlighted the potential of emerging micro-markets like Liwan, which are attracting both end-users and investors. Dubai’s residential market has experienced a notable shift, with apartment prices rising 20.5 per cent year-on-year and average rents increasing 22.1 per cent as of mid-2025, according to CBRE. This has prompted residents to view affordable luxury developments—those priced under Dh2 million—as smart investments. Symbolic Altus aims to meet this demand with a low-density, design-led approach, strategically located just 500 meters from the upcoming Dubai Metro Blue Line. The developer’s focus on community-building is evident in its integration of amenities like rooftop communal spaces and proximity to Liwan Park, which features facilities for all age groups. With more projects planned for early next year, Symbolic Developments is committed to filling the gap in the mid-market segment, offering luxury at an affordable price.