Today’s Highlights

Economy/Business

📰 Indonesia Weighs Easing Live Cattle Imports, Tightening Frozen Beef Controls - Jakarta Globe

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMirAFBVV95cUxOd1ZscDBOVktHa0NIb…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is considering easing live cattle imports while simultaneously tightening controls on frozen beef. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This policy shift could impact both domestic cattle farmers and consumers. Changes could affect the price and availability of beef products in the Indonesian market.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia’s Digital Economy Generates $2.7 Billion in Tax Revenue - Jakarta Globe

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMimwFBVV95cUxOX1FSNDdBSEU1VnhWZ…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia’s digital economy has generated $2.7 billion in tax revenue. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This revenue indicates the growing significance of the digital economy in Indonesia. It provides the government with additional resources for public spending and economic development.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia Adds 17 Radioactive Scanners to Meet US FDA Export Standards - Tempo.co English

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipgFBVV95cUxQekxwRXdkX2VrNE4zR…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is adding 17 radioactive scanners to meet US FDA export standards. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This move aims to ensure Indonesian exports meet international safety requirements. It could facilitate smoother trade relations with the US and potentially increase export volumes.

Confidence: low

📰 No Fuel Shortage Fears as Indonesia Secures Energy Stocks for Christmas–New Year - MetroTVNews.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMivwFBVV95cUxQWGFFRkpwQUM2elFuT…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has secured sufficient energy stocks for the Christmas and New Year period, alleviating fears of fuel shortages. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This assurance of fuel availability is crucial for maintaining economic activity during the holiday season. It prevents potential disruptions to transportation, businesses, and consumer spending.

Confidence: low

📰 Geliat Digital Hashim Mengisi 5 Lapis Industri AI di Indonesia - CNBC Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMivwFBVV95cUxQTGJ1TjhsQTJjN2Fla…

Source Region: Other

The article discusses Hashim’s digital activities filling 5 layers of the AI industry in Indonesia. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This suggests significant investment and development in Indonesia’s AI sector. It could lead to innovation, job creation, and increased competitiveness in the digital economy.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Pemerintah Tetapkan Anggaran Pupuk Bersubsidi 2026 Rp 46,87 Triliun |Republika Online

Source: ekonomi.republika.co.id/…/pemerintah-tetapkan-angga…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Indonesian government has allocated Rp46.87 trillion for subsidized fertilizers in 2026 for agriculture and fisheries. The allocation includes 9.55 million tons of subsidized fertilizer for the agricultural sector and Rp999.07 billion for the fisheries sector. PT Pupuk Indonesia (Persero) is prepared to distribute the subsidized fertilizers starting January 1, 2026, to farmers and cultivators registered in e-RDKK or e-PB at regulated prices. The government has also ensured that the 20 percent discount on subsidized fertilizer prices will continue in 2026.

Why it matters: This budget allocation aims to support national food self-sufficiency by ensuring the timely and targeted distribution of fertilizers, impacting agricultural productivity and the livelihoods of farmers and fish cultivators.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Resmi, Pupuk Bersubsidi 2026 Bisa Ditebus Mulai 1 Januari Pukul 00.00 |Republika Online

Source: ekonomi.republika.co.id/…/resmi-pupuk-bersubsidi-20…

Source Region: Indonesia

The government announced that subsidized fertilizers for the 2026 fiscal year can be distributed and redeemed by farmers and cultivators starting January 1, 2026. The subsidized fertilizer allocation is set at Rp46.87 trillion, allocated to meet the needs of the agricultural and fisheries sectors throughout 2026. The allocation for the agricultural sector is 9.55 million tons, while the fisheries sector is allocated 295,676 tons. PT Pupuk Indonesia has confirmed its readiness to execute the distribution of subsidized fertilizers according to applicable regulations.

Why it matters: The timely distribution of subsidized fertilizers is crucial for supporting agricultural productivity and maintaining food security, impacting the livelihoods of farmers and the overall economy.

Confidence: high

📰 China Focus: Beijing firms bring tech to Belt and Road countries

Source: xinhuanet.com/…/c_136263471.htm

Source Region: Other

The article discusses how Beijing-based technology companies like Nuctech and OriginWater are expanding into countries along the Belt and Road Initiative. Nuctech, a security inspection equipment producer, exports a significant portion of its products overseas. OriginWater provides safe water solutions and has sold products in countries including Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Why it matters: The Belt and Road Initiative facilitates business opportunities for Chinese companies, enabling them to expand their markets and spread their technology to participating countries.

Confidence: high

Politics/Society

📰 Indonesia mobilizes 37,970 soldiers to disaster-hit Sumatra regions - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipwFBVV95cUxQWlZaUk5QSXBmYS0yT…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has mobilized 37,970 soldiers to regions of Sumatra that have been hit by disasters. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: The mobilization of troops suggests a significant disaster response effort is underway. The impact on local businesses and infrastructure remains unclear.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia to start restricting children’s social media access in 2026 - The Jakarta Post

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiwgFBVV95cUxQcDdaOXVXbDMzOWlaU…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia plans to start restricting children’s access to social media in 2026. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This regulation could impact social media companies operating in Indonesia. It may also affect businesses that target children through social media advertising.

Confidence: low

📰 10 Most Polluted Regions in Indonesia This Morning (Dec 28) | Pusat Data Ekonomi dan Bisnis Indonesia | Databoks - Databoks

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi0wFBVV95cUxQdl9oX2lyVlR3cFdTV…

Source Region: Other

The article identifies the 10 most polluted regions in Indonesia on the morning of December 28th. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: High pollution levels can impact public health and economic productivity. This data could inform policy decisions and business strategies related to environmental sustainability.

Confidence: low

📰 BNPB Catat 3.176 Bencana Alam di Indonesia 2025, Banjir dan Longsor Mendominasi - Kompas.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiugFBVV95cUxNRHRrU0ZQcDQ4Q0V1e…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia’s disaster mitigation agency (BNPB) recorded 3,176 natural disasters in Indonesia in 2025. Floods and landslides were the most common.

Why it matters: These events can cause significant economic disruption and displacement of people.

Confidence: low

📰 町唯一の特養ホームが閉鎖危機 救ったのはインドネシア人介護士 日本人だけでは支えられない“終の棲家” - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMif0FVX3lxTFBKcHQwbC1TWW1wT2tRY…

Source Region: Other

An Indonesian caregiver saved the only special nursing home in town from closing. The home could not be supported by Japanese staff alone.

Why it matters: Highlights the important role of foreign workers in Japan’s aging society.

Confidence: low

📰 分断の時代に「対話」を取り戻すには――インドネシア国防大学共同創立者 プルノモ・ユスギアントロ氏に聞く - seikyoonline.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMieEFVX3lxTE9DdEtEV1R1Uzl0QnlvW…

Source Region: Other

An interview with Purnomo Yusgiantoro, co-founder of the Indonesian Defense University, on how to restore “dialogue” in an age of division.

Why it matters: His insights may be valuable for promoting peace and understanding in a complex world.

Confidence: low

📰 「盗まれた子供」進まぬ救済 東ティモール侵攻から半世紀―インドネシア - 時事ドットコム

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiY0FVX3lxTE03cHFoVU5KU2x6QVM0V…

Source Region: Other

Half a century after the invasion of East Timor, the rescue of “stolen children” has not progressed in Indonesia.

Why it matters: This is a sensitive issue that could affect Indonesia’s relations with East Timor and international perceptions of Indonesia.

Confidence: low

📰 地域おこし協力隊員にインドネシアの女性 山口県和木町 - 47NEWS

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiS0FVX3lxTE5fRUdjdGdmVlR0RjZyL…

Source Region: Other

An Indonesian woman has become a member of the Regional Development Cooperation Corps in Waki Town, Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Why it matters: This may help promote cultural exchange and understanding between Indonesia and Japan.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Eks Pimpinan Beberkan Alasan Kenapa Putusan KPK Setop Kasus Korupsi Nikel di Konawe Jadi tak Logis |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/eks-pimpinan-bongkar-tak-mas…

Source Region: Indonesia

Former KPK leader Saut Situmorang criticized the KPK’s decision to halt the investigation into a nickel mining corruption case in Konawe Utara, arguing that sufficient evidence exists to proceed. He suggests the Attorney General’s Office taking over the case would expose the KPK’s internal issues and questions the motives behind stopping the investigation, which allegedly caused Rp 2.7 trillion in state losses. Saut emphasized that the KPK should continue the case to maintain its credibility and challenge its supervisory board to act. He also mentioned his involvement in announcing Aswad Sulaiman as a suspect in the case back in 2017.

Why it matters: The halting of the investigation raises concerns about transparency and accountability in the mining sector, potentially impacting investor confidence and governance.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Mengenal Superflu, Varian Influenza H3N2 yang Mudah Menular |Republika Online

Source: ameera.republika.co.id/…/mengenal-superflu-varian-i…

Source Region: Indonesia

Dr. Nastiti Kaswandani from IDAI warns about the increasing cases of influenza, particularly the H3N2 variant known as “superflu,” which spreads rapidly, especially in cold climates. Superflu, a subclade K variant of H3N2, is suspected to be the cause of increased influenza cases during winter, with 200 cases found in America and the northern hemisphere. H3N2 has a high rate of evolution and mutation, potentially causing mass influenza outbreaks. Symptoms are similar to common influenza A, including high fever, chills, headache, and sore throat, but subclade K cannot be detected clinically.

Why it matters: The rapid spread and potential for epidemics could strain healthcare systems and impact workforce productivity, especially in regions experiencing cold seasons.

Confidence: medium

🇮🇩 Pemerintah Imbau WFA Selama Libur Nataru, Coworking Space di Jakarta Ramai Dikunjungi |Republika Online

Source: visual.republika.co.id/…/pemerintah-imbau-wfa-selam…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Indonesian government is encouraging Work From Anywhere (WFA) arrangements from December 29-31, 2025, to ease traffic during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Coworking spaces, such as the one at LRT Cawang Station in Jakarta, have become popular options for those participating in WFA. The policy excludes sectors related to public services, production, essential services like healthcare, manufacturing, hospitality, shopping centers, and the food and beverage industry. The implementation of WFA is intended to support smooth mobility for the public during the holiday season.

Why it matters: The WFA implementation impacts the demand for office spaces and coworking facilities, while also influencing consumer behavior during the holiday season.

Confidence: medium

🇮🇩 Nahas! PMI Asal Bandung Barat Meninggal Usai Lompat dari Lantai 2 di Arab Saudi |Republika Online

Source: rejabar.republika.co.id/…/nahas-pmi-asal-bandung-ba…

Source Region: Indonesia

An Indonesian migrant worker (PMI) from Bandung Barat, West Java, died after reportedly jumping from the second floor of a building in Saudi Arabia. The incident occurred on December 18, 2025, allegedly due to unpaid wages and severe pressure from her employer. She was taken to a hospital but eventually passed away. Local authorities are coordinating with the central government and the Indonesian Embassy in Saudi Arabia to repatriate the body and ensure her rights are fulfilled.

Why it matters: This case highlights the risks faced by undocumented migrant workers and the need for stronger protections and oversight in overseas employment.

Confidence: medium

🇮🇩 Realisasi BLT Tembus 90 Persen, Pos Indonesia Salurkan Tambahan 3,2 Juta KPM |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/realisasi-blt-tembus-90-pers…

Source Region: Indonesia

PT Pos Indonesia has distributed Direct Cash Assistance (BLT) to 90 percent of targeted recipients, reaching 12,589,581 beneficiary families (KPM) across Indonesia as of December 29, 2025. The company is also distributing additional assistance to 3.2 million KPM. Despite challenges in disaster-affected areas, distribution efforts have remained optimal. The success is attributed to the company’s extensive network and resources, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of social aid.

Why it matters: The efficient distribution of BLT is crucial for maintaining the purchasing power of vulnerable populations and supporting economic stability, especially during challenging times.

Confidence: medium

📰 Chinese vice premier meets Thai princess

Source: xinhuanet.com/…/c_136191136.htm

Source Region: Other

Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli met with Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand in Beijing. Zhang expressed appreciation for Sirindhorn’s work in strengthening China-Thailand friendship. He stated China is ready to deepen cooperation with Thailand for mutual benefit. Sirindhorn thanked China’s support and hoped to enhance cooperation in science, education, and agriculture.

Why it matters: The meeting highlights the ongoing diplomatic and economic ties between China and Thailand, with a focus on strengthening cooperation in various sectors.

Confidence: high

International/Other

📰 Indonesia Urges Peaceful Resolution to Yemen Conflict - RRI.co.id

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMinAFBVV95cUxQQWFVT0V3b3lZYXJwT…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is urging a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: Indonesia’s call reflects its diplomatic efforts to promote stability in the region. The impact on Indonesian businesses is likely indirect, through broader regional stability.

Confidence: low

📰 ”Redaksi Yth”: SEA Games 2025 dan Awal Baik untuk Indonesia - Kompas.id

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMijwFBVV95cUxPcmJnVGVSd25TcUQwZ…

Source Region: Other

The article discusses the 2025 SEA Games and its potential as a positive start for Indonesia. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: Hosting the SEA Games could boost tourism and infrastructure development in Indonesia. It also presents an opportunity to enhance the country’s international image.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia Berniat Jadi Tuan Rumah SEA Games, tapi… - detiksport

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMimAFBVV95cUxNLWZRT0JxdVpzdHlRU…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia intends to host the SEA Games, but the article suggests there are potential challenges. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: Hosting the SEA Games could stimulate economic activity and infrastructure development. However, challenges need to be addressed to ensure a successful event.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia Usulkan Australia dan Selandia Baru Jadi Peserta SEA Games - Kompas.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiwgFBVV95cUxPRE9YQVFNblNaZ3hZN…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is proposing that Australia and New Zealand participate in the SEA Games. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: Including Australia and New Zealand could raise the level of competition and attract more international attention to the SEA Games. This could lead to increased revenue and tourism for the host country.

Confidence: low

📰 Inggris Rilis Daftar Travel Warning 2026, Ada Indonesia - CNN Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiwgFBVV95cUxOcXdtUUp5SXRGd01jX…

Source Region: Other

The UK has released its 2026 travel warning list, which includes Indonesia.

Why it matters: This may affect tourism and business travel to Indonesia.

Confidence: low

📰 Wadubes RI di Beijing dr Irene Tegaskan Komitmen Perkuat Kemitraan Strategis Indonesia dan China - SINDOnews Internasional

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi8AFBVV95cUxPN29telVHZm53U1dxR…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia’s Deputy Ambassador to Beijing, Dr. Irene, has affirmed the commitment to strengthen the strategic partnership between Indonesia and China.

Why it matters: This could lead to increased trade and investment between the two countries.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシア人材受け入れへサポートデスク　山口県などがジャカルタに設置 - 中国新聞デジタル

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiWkFVX3lxTFB4TjhURDlsWmRSUWlfV…

Source Region: Other

Yamaguchi Prefecture and others have established a support desk in Jakarta to accept Indonesian human resources.

Why it matters: This may help address labor shortages in Japan and provide opportunities for Indonesian workers.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシア・コモド島付近で観光船が沈没 スペイン人家族4人が行方不明 - TBS NEWS DIG

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiV0FVX3lxTE9MVkptNkg5YVI3ODU4O…

Source Region: Other

A tourist boat sank off the coast of Komodo Island, Indonesia, and a Spanish family of four is missing.

Why it matters: This could negatively impact tourism in the Komodo Island area.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシア・コモド島付近で観光船が沈没 スペイン人家族4人が行方不明（TBS NEWS DIG Powered by JNN） - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMif0FVX3lxTE1DQ2NCaXFuNHVQT0ROS…

Source Region: Other

A tourist boat sank off the coast of Komodo Island, Indonesia, and a Spanish family of four is missing.

Why it matters: This could negatively impact tourism in the Komodo Island area.

Confidence: low

📰 観光船沈没 インドネシアの人気観光地コモド島付近 スペイン人4人不明 悪天候で3メートルほどの高波 - ニフティニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMibEFVX3lxTE9xUmZFUjVybl8tYW4tR…

Source Region: Other

A tourist boat sank off the coast of Komodo Island, a popular tourist destination in Indonesia. Four Spanish people are missing due to bad weather and high waves of about 3 meters.

Why it matters: This could negatively impact tourism in the Komodo Island area.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Infantino Tepis Kritikan Terhadap Harga Mahal Tiket Piala Dunia 2026 |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/infantino-tepis-kritikan-ter…

Source Region: Indonesia

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, citing high global demand and the impact of World Cup revenue on supporting football development worldwide. He noted that FIFA received 150 million ticket requests in just 15 days. Infantino emphasized that the revenue generated is reinvested into global football development, particularly in countries lacking strong funding sources. Dubai will host the next FIFA Best Awards ceremony.

Why it matters: The high demand and revenue from the World Cup have a significant impact on global football development and related industries.

Confidence: high

🌍 Tents flooded by heavy rains in Gaza amid calls for Israel to let in aid

Source: aljazeera.com/…/tents-flooded-by-heavy-rains-in-gaz…

Source Region: International

Heavy winter rains and strong winds have caused severe flooding in Gaza, worsening the conditions for displaced Palestinians who are already suffering from the effects of the ongoing conflict. Makeshift camps have been engulfed in mud, and officials warn of the increased risk of disease due to contaminated floodwaters. Aid groups are calling for increased aid deliveries to the territory, as many are living in flimsy, waterlogged tents. At least 15 people have died this month from hypothermia.

Why it matters: The severe weather conditions exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, increasing the urgency for aid and highlighting the vulnerability of displaced populations.

Confidence: high

🌍 India set to lead BRICS amid conflicting interests, global ambitions and US pressure

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/brics-india-presidency-counte…

Source Region: International

India is set to assume the chair of BRICS, an expanded bloc of nations, amid a complex geopolitical landscape. India aims to prioritize the Global South and demonstrate BRICS’ ability to address common challenges despite diverging national interests. The bloc, representing half the world’s population and nearly 40% of global economic output, faces the task of balancing internal politics and external pressures, including potential tariffs from the US. A key focus for India will be the development of an investment guarantee mechanism to tackle climate change, poverty, energy transition and infrastructure needs.

Why it matters: India’s leadership of BRICS could reshape the influence of the Global South in an increasingly divided world, impacting trade relations, investment flows, and geopolitical alliances.

Confidence: high

🌍 Thai army accuses Cambodia of violating truce with over 250 drones

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/thailand-cambodia-ceasefire-t…

Source Region: International

The Thai army accused Cambodia of violating a newly signed ceasefire agreement by flying over 250 drones over Thai territory. This accusation follows a ceasefire agreement aimed at ending deadly border clashes. Cambodia’s Foreign Minister said the two sides discussed the incident and agreed to investigate and resolve it immediately. Thailand’s army stated that the drone activity reflected Cambodia’s continued provocative actions and hostile stance toward Thailand, which could affect the security of military personnel and civilians in border areas.

Why it matters: The alleged violation of the ceasefire could undermine efforts to rebuild trust and improve relations between Thailand and Cambodia, potentially impacting regional stability and economic cooperation.

Confidence: medium

🌍 Indonesian rescuers find a body while searching for Valencia coach and 3 children

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/indonesia-boat-rescue-female-…

Source Region: International

Indonesian rescuers have found the body of a female victim believed to be part of the family of Valencia CF Women’s B coach Fernando Martín, who went missing with his three children after a tour boat sank. The body was found floating near Serai island, about 1km from the site of the sinking. Martín’s wife and another child were rescued, but Martín and his other three children remain missing. The search operation continues for the remaining family members.

Why it matters: The tragic accident highlights the safety risks associated with boat transportation in Indonesia, which could impact tourism and the local economy.

Confidence: medium

🌍 Thailand and Cambodia agree to ‘consolidate ceasefire’ in China talks

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/thailand-cambodia-ceasefire-c…

Source Region: International

Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to rebuild mutual trust and consolidate a ceasefire following weeks of border clashes, according to a communique released by China. The agreement was reached after trilateral talks in China between the foreign ministers of Thailand, Cambodia, and China. China has offered to be a platform to support peace between the two countries. The agreement calls for Thailand to repatriate 18 Cambodian soldiers and for both sides to adhere to international agreements against deploying land mines.

Why it matters: The agreement to consolidate the ceasefire could lead to greater stability in the region, potentially boosting cross-border trade and investment.

Confidence: medium

🌍 Indonesia fire kills 16 people in nursing home

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/indonesia-fire-nursing-home-m…

Source Region: International

A fire at a nursing home in Manado, Indonesia, killed 16 people. The fire broke out on Sunday evening while the residents were asleep. Fifteen victims were burned to death, while one victim’s body remains intact. An initial police report said an electrical fault caused the fire, but officials later said the cause was still under investigation.

Why it matters: Deadly fires are not uncommon in Indonesia, and this incident highlights the need for improved safety regulations and enforcement in nursing homes and other residential facilities.

Confidence: high

🌍 Tirunelveli campus connect

Source: thehindu.com/…/article70449451.ece

Source Region: International

The article reports on two events: a Christmas program at Delight Public School in Thoothukudi, featuring a drama, musical performances, and dance; and the book release function of “Malarum Mottugal,” a collection of 56 poems written by S.H. Hansi, a Class IX student of Rojavanam International School, Nagercoil. Sahitya Akademi award-winner Ponneelan attended the event as chief guest and released the book. Copies of the book were received by other notable figures.

Why it matters: The article highlights local events and achievements in education and the arts.

Confidence: low

🇯🇵 China and Russia back Myanmar’s election despite war and voter apathy

Source: asia.nikkei.com/…/china-and-russia-back-myanmar-s-e…

Source Region: Japan

China, Russia, Thailand and Indonesia are among states to have lent backing to the multi-phase general election Myanmar’s military regime began on Sunday. The election is an effort to add legitimacy to its rule despite the nation being mired in civil war.

Why it matters: The backing of countries like China and Russia provides some international legitimacy to the regime, despite internal conflict.

Confidence: medium

📰 Feature: A Thai student dreams of selling rice to China

Source: xinhuanet.com/…/c_136224369.htm

Source Region: Other

Nontipa Kla-ngam, a Thai student in China, is studying the free trade agreement (FTA) between Thailand and China. She sees an opportunity to export Thai rice to China by taking advantage of the FTA’s duty exemptions. She believes that her familiarity with Chinese culture and policies, along with her language skills, will give her an advantage in the market.

Why it matters: The article illustrates how trade agreements can create opportunities for individuals and businesses to capitalize on market potential and promote trade between countries.

Confidence: high