ASIA: RCEP heavy on symbolism, but its economic effects will be limited
After eight years of negotiations, the fifteen participants in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) signed a final agreement in a virtual summit on Sunday, 16 November. The economic benefits may be relatively modest in the near term but simplifying rules of… Become a member to read the rest of this article Username or […]
CHINA: Covid-related restrictions on food imports do not look political
Chinese customs authorities are tightening import restrictions in response to concerns that contaminated frozen foods and food packaging can transmit the coronavirus. The WHO has said that the risk of such transmission is minimal, but China’s Customs Administration has already suspended imports from 99 suppliers in 20 countries in response to positive samples found in […]
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: China, private sector partake in future debt restructurings
On 13 November, the G20 published the anticipated ‘Common Framework for Debt Treatments beyond the Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI)’. In what may be read as a concession to get China on board, the framework refers to debt cancellations as ultima ratio, reserved exc… Become a member to read the rest of this article
LATAM PULSE
This week, Peru’s Congress should vote in a new president after the collapse of the Manuel Merino administration after only five days. In Argentina, President Alberto Fernandez has seemingly been blindsided by his VP as Cristina Fernandez (CFK) looks to distance herself from any eventual International Monetary Fund (IMF) agreement. Brazil’s congressional divisions and other distractions will continue […]
WEEKLY POLITICAL COMPASS
China has suspended frozen food imports from 20 countries. The Tigray conflict is spreading beyond Ethiopia’s borders. The EU recovery fund is threatened by national vetoes. Peru’s congress will vote in a new president. Meanwhile, the leaders of India and China will meet virtua… Become a member to read the rest of this article
MIDDLE EAST: Biden will not turn on US partners in the region
Biden will remain fundamentally sympathetic to Israel, building on his long record as a friend. Saudi Arabia will need to show value to new administration while quietly hedging against a more distant relationship. UAE will hone its image as a prominent voice for peace and m… Become a member to read the rest of […]