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From the movements

IEU CEPA: A threat to the environment, indigenous peoples, and biodiversity

Indonesia for Global Justice (IGJ) and WALHI (Friends of the Earth Indonesia) released a joint statement raises critical concerns about the proposed Indonesia-EU CEPA. It highlights the potential negative impacts of the agreement, particularly when coupled with Indonesia’s Omnibus Law, on the environment, Indigenous communities, and biodiversity.

Thai CSOs warn the senate’s subcommittee about the ongoing FTA negotiation with the EU on TRIPs-plus provisions harmful to access to medicines

FTA Watch representatives warned that stricter IP rules in a potential EU FTA could impact access to medicines, increase healthcare costs, and harm Thailand’s domestic pharmaceutical industry. They also highlighted concerns about EU demands regarding government procurement, plant variety protection (UPOV 1991), and import of remanufactured goods.

The EU’s lust for Indonesia’s nickel supply

The EU desires open access to Indonesian nickel, crucial for its green transition, yet criticizes extractive practices in the Global South. Indonesia, however, seeks to develop its own processing industries and restrict raw material exports.
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Latest news

Bahrain FTA in the works

Thailand and Bahrain are discussing a free trade agreement (FTA) to boost trade and investment. The FTA talks, along with Thailand’s potential role as a food security hub for the Middle East, were discussed between the countries’ commerce ministers. Bahrain is Thailand’s 9th largest trading partner in the Middle East, with key Thai exports including automobiles, gems, and machinery.

My Say: China’s CPTPP accession: Hidden hands blocking the Red Dragon?

China’s bid to join the CPTPP faces obstacles, primarily due to geopolitical considerations rather than purely economic ones. While China’s economic clout makes its inclusion seem logical, some CPTPP members, influenced by the US, appear to be blocking China’s entry to limit its influence in the Asia-Pacific region.

India reportedly unsettled over China-Maldives FTA

India worries about China-Maldives FTA potential impact on Maldives’ financial stability and has hinted that this could influence India’s future financial aid policy towards the island nation. This comes despite recent financial assistance from India to the Maldives.

Mini deal, macro focus: PM Modi to talk trade in US

Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to Washington DC will prioritize talks on a limited trade deal with the US, focusing on tariff concessions and investment agreements.

Uruguay faces five international lawsuits

Uruguay is currently facing five international lawsuits, according to the future Pro-secretary of the Presidency, Jorge Lopez, of the Frente Amplio government that will take office on March 1.
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