Author: Editorial Desk

A recent RaboResearch report highlights a promising outlook for the global blueberry industry, with a series of transformative trends expected to drive ongoing success. The report identifies advancements in blueberry genetics and increased efforts toward labour productivity and efficiency as pivotal factors shaping the industry’s future. Export Growth on the Horizon The 2023/24 blueberry season marked an unusual setback, as adverse weather events led to a 10% decline in global exports – the first drop in 15 seasons. While recovery in production and exports may be slower than initially anticipated, experts foresee a turnaround. David Magaña, Senior Analyst for Fresh…

The EU’s trade in electric and hybrid vehicles has surged, with electric and hybrid cars now accounting for 43 per cent of EU car imports in 2023, a sharp increase from 8 per cent in 2017, according to recent Eurostat data. This trend underscores a growing shift toward sustainable transportation within the bloc and with its trading partners. Cyprus, though a smaller market, reflects these changes. Over half of Cyprus’ car imports now come from outside the EU, aligning with the broader trend of the EU’s increasing reliance on third-country imports for greener transport solutions. In 2023, the EU’s imports…

Poland is poised to dominate the global grave candle market, positioning itself as a formidable competitor in this niche industry. Currently, Poland ranks as the world’s second-largest exporter of candles and related products, contributing 17% of the global candle market, valued at EUR 764 million last year. Only China surpasses Poland in export value, but experts believe this lead may soon diminish, opening opportunities for Polish producers to secure the top position. Within Europe, Poland commands the grave candle export market, leaving traditional exporters like the Netherlands and Germany behind, with exports worth EUR 210 million and EUR 177 million,…

The Vietnam-UK Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA) has bolstered Vietnam footwear sector, enhancing export opportunities through improved tariff incentives. Leveraging the agreement, the industry has expanded its reach to the UK and other international markets, achieving substantial growth in the first eight months of 2024. During this period, Vietnamese footwear exports to the UK surged by 25%, contributing nearly 8% to the EU’s total export turnover. Ms. Phan Thi Thanh Xuan, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency, stated that the UKVFTA has provided the leather and footwear industry with competitive advantages, enabling accelerated exports. This has been echoed by…

Sri Lanka’s coconut sector, one of the nation’s key economic pillars, is facing severe setbacks as domestic production has dropped by approximately 40 percent, largely attributed to a combination of international conflicts, the impact of whitefly infestations, and restrictions on fertiliser use. Long queues have formed across Colombo and surrounding areas as coconut supplies have dwindled, pushing prices up and sparking concern among consumers. Last week’s coconut auction in Colombo underscored the production crisis, with total output plummeting to 400,000 nuts from the previous 600,000–800,000 range. The downturn has disrupted local markets, with producers and consumers alike feeling the strain…

Vietnam has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing the sustainable development of the Halal industry, anchored in respect for cultural values and peaceful coexistence. The country’s focus on inclusivity and harmony aims to showcase its role in building a peaceful, diverse, and cooperative global landscape. At a recent conference, both domestic and international delegates praised Vietnam’s strategic approach to the global Halal market, highlighting the nation’s unique potential and readiness for active participation in this sector. Mohamed Jinna, Chairman of Halal India, commented on Vietnam’s ‘bright future’ as it opens its markets to the expanding global Halal industry. He emphasized that…

The World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) has accepted a request from India and Chinese Taipei to delay adopting a panel ruling that challenges India’s import duties on specific information and technology products until April 25, 2025. This marks the sixth postponement as both parties seek to resolve the issue through mutual negotiation. The decision was reached at the DSB meeting in Geneva, following a joint appeal from India and Chinese Taipei for more time to address the panel’s findings. A Geneva-based official confirmed, “The DSB agreed to the latest requests from Chinese Taipei and India,” allowing the…

Bolaven Plateau, Laos | Laos’ durian industry is preparing to enter the Chinese market as production rises. Known for its coffee, the Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos is now drawing interest for durian farming, fueled by fertile soil and investment from entrepreneurs like Chinese businessman Tao Jian, 54. Tao’s company, Jinguo, has planted 50,000 durian trees and recently celebrated its first harvest. Tao believes the plateau’s soil and climate suit durian cultivation. His team developed a high-quality hybrid v ariety using Malaysian and local cultivars. “I believe Laos will soon become the world’s fourth-largest durian producer after Thailand, Vietnam, and…

India has formally requested compensation from Turkiye following Ankara’s recent decision to extend safeguard measures on polyester staple fibres, which has significantly impacted India’s exports of the product. During recent bilateral consultations under the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) safeguard agreement, Indian officials expressed concerns over the trade impact of Turkiye’s actions. An official from India’s trade department noted that this extension of safeguards has led to a tangible loss in trade. “We have sought compensation as we have a loss of trade. India has the option to propose retaliatory customs duties equivalent to the value of export loss if the…

Twenty-seven government officials from developing and least-developed WTO member countries are participating in the WTO Advanced Trade Policy Course in Geneva, held from October 14 to December 6. This eight-week programme, organized by the WTO’s Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation, is designed to build expertise in trade policy, focusing on WTO agreements and procedures. The WTO’s Advanced Trade Policy Course, now in its third session this year, emphasizes practical learning, with participants engaged in discussions, simulations, and case studies to deepen their understanding of WTO agreements. This approach strengthens their analytical and negotiation skills, with hands-on experience in using…