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ASIA-PACIFC TRADE AGREEMENT (APTA)
APTA adopts agreement on origin of goods, Webindia 123 , 26 October 2007.
The second Ministerial Council of the Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) has adopted an agreement on operational rules for certification and verification of the origin of goods for facilitating trade among APTA's six member-countries Bangladesh, China, India, Republic of Korea, Lao People's Democratic Republic and Sri Lanka. The agreement's procedures will be effective from 1 January 2008, with a commitment that the standing committee of APTA would subsequently review implementation of the procedures on a regular basis. Reaffirming expansion of APTA into a pan-Asia-Pacific trade agreement, the Council directed the standing committee to facilitate entry of new members.
Accessed on 13 November
< http://news.webindia123.com/news/articles/India/20071026/805016.html >

ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHEAST ASIAN NATIONS (ASEAN)
ASEAN signs blueprint for single market by 2015. The Daily Star, DATE.
Southeast Asian leaders on 20 November signed the “ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint” aimed at transforming the region into a single market with a unified production base and no tariffs by 2015. In the face of competition from regional giants China and India, 10-member ASEAN is fast-tracking the integration of its economies to create a market of half a billion people. The document calls for the elimination of import duties on all products, except for some sensitive items, by 2010 and by 2015. Restrictions in trade and services in the sectors of air transport, e-commerce, healthcare and tourism will also be substantially removed by 2010 and by 2013 for the services sector.
Accessed on 21 November
< http://www.thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=12466 >

BANGLADESH
Bangladesh gets aboard Trans-Asian Railway. The Daily Star , 11 November 2007.
Bangladesh has joined the Trans-Asian Railway (TAR), a move that will connect the country's rail system to a 81,000 km network stretching from Europe to East and Southeast Asia. A similar road agreement, the Asian Highway network, is yet to be signed even though the council of advisers has given its approval back in April. The cross-border network also identifies Bangladesh as a transit route between China and India, the world's fastest growing economies. The TAR enters Bangladesh from three directions from the Indian state of West Bengal and exits through a single gateway in the east at Gundhum, Myanmar. The routes go through industrial centres in the north and south-west of the country. Much of the railway network already exists, although some significant gaps remain.
Accessed on 13 November
< http://www.thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=11107 >

EUROPEAN UNION
European Union Parliament opposes free trade agreement with ASEAN due to Myanmar issue. Bilaterals , 23 November 2007.
The parliament of the European Union will oppose an EU-ASEAN free trade agreement as long as democracy is not restored in Myanmar. A delegation of the European Parliament to the Philippines said that the EU would impose trade sanctions against Myanmar and isolate the country until its Government institute democratic reforms, starting with the release of opposition leader and political prisoners. The delegation urged other members of the ASEAN to take a similar stand against Myanmar. Trade ministers from the regional grouping told their European counterparts during a meeting on the side of the ASEAN summit in Singapore that they would include Myanmar in negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) with Europe. On 19 November, EU foreign ministers approved a ban on imports of timber, gemstones and precious metal from Myanmar.
Accessed on 26 November
< http://www.bilaterals.org/article.php3?id_article=10461 >

INDIA
State Industry Department to develop Trade Point in Mumbai. Economic Times , 15 November 2007.
The Industry Department of Maharashtra has approved a proposal to develop an international standard Trade Point at the World Trade Centre building that would provide the domestic industry, in particular the small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a window to global trade and a platform to take part in the global e-commerce economy. Mumbai becomes the second city in India after Delhi to boast of a Trade Point which is part of a United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) programme to increase international trade participation of SMEs from developing countries. A trade point is a one-stop-shop providing trade information, trade facilities, and trade transaction services.
Accessed on 16 November
< http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/PoliticsNation/ >

JAPAN
Japan-Thailand free trade agreement goes into effect. All Headline News , 1 November 2007.
The Japan-Thailand free trade agreement came into force on 1 November. the agreement, which was signed in April, aims to remove tariffs on almost all trade between the two countries within the next 10 years. 97 per cent of Japanese exports to Thailand and 92 per cent of Thai export to Japan will become tariff-free. Under the FTA, Japan has agreed to remove tariffs on Thai shrimp and tropical fruit such as mangoes and durian. It is also set to ease immigration regulations for chefs from Thailand. However, it will ensure that its politically powerful rice farmers stay protected. In return, Thailand will reduce tariffs from 80 per cent to 60 per cent on automobiles with engines of 3,000cc or larger over the next four years and eventually scrap all tariffs on steel imports.
Accessed on 5 November
< http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7009019278 >

New Japanese immigration controls worry foreigners. International Herald Tribune , 18 November 2007.
Effective from 20 November, Japan has put in place strict immigration controls that many fear could deter visitors and discourage businesses from locating there. Under the new rules, all foreign citizens will be fingerprinted, photographed and questioned every time they enter Japan. Some of the most vocal critics have been among foreign business leaders, who say the screening could hurt Japan 's standing as an Asian business center, especially if it is inefficiently carried out, leading to long waits at airports. Business groups warn that such delays could make Japan less attractive than rival commercial hubs like Hong Kong, China and Singapore where entry procedures are much easier. One request made by the European Business Council, the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan and other business groups is to add special lines at airports for foreign residents, and especially frequent business travelers. Until now, foreign residents have been allowed to use the same lines at airport immigration as Japanese citizens, speeding their entry. The new law bars them from doing so.
Accessed on 19 November
< http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/18/asia/18japan.php >

Japan and ASEAN leaders endorse free-trade pact. Japan Times , 22 November 2007.
Leaders of Japan and ASEAN effectively endorsed the conclusion of a comprehensive free-trade agreement aimed at stimulating further bilateral trade and investment. They issued a joint statement expressing satisfaction in successfully concluding the agreement and their firm belief that as a strong stimulus for trade and investment it will strengthen economic ties between Japan and ASEAN. Key sensitive Japanese farm products, including rice, beef and dairy goods will be excluded from the pact. The nations' trade ministers finalized the trade agreement on 19 November, formally ending two and a half years of negotiations. The accord will not be signed until as early as next spring after fine-tuning the wording and completing legal procedures, including parliamentary approval required in the countries concerned. The actual repealing of tariffs is likely to begin around next autumn when the agreement is scheduled to take effect.
Accessed on 22 November < http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nb20071122a6.html >

LAO PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC
Lao People's Democratic Republic looks to accelerate membership negotiations. WTO , 16 November 2007.
Lao People's Democratic Republic could see its WTO membership application speed up in the next year or two, WTO members negotiating with Lao People's Democratic Republic heard in their third meeting on 15 November 2007. Lao People's Democratic Republic in 2007 added an offer on services to the one on market access for goods submitted in 2006, along with more details on the reforms it is undertaking. When Lao People's Democratic Republic joins the WTO it will be the 10th and final member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to do so. As a least-developed country, it is covered by the 2002 General Council guidelines for accelerating membership negotiations. Since the last meeting in November 2006, Lao People's Democratic Republic has submitted written replies to members' questions, and a revised action plan introducing and implementing laws and regulations, with details on standards (technical barriers to trade and sanitary-phytosanitary measures), customs valuation and intellectual property protection.
Accessed on 19 November
< http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news07_e/acc_laos_nov07_e.htm >

MALAYSIA
Malaysia signs FTA with Pakistan. The New Straits Times , 12 November 2007.
Malaysia and Pakistan have signed the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership (MPCEPA), Malaysia 's first bilateral free trade agreement with a member of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC). The agreement will come into force on 1 January 2008. The agreement encompasses liberalization in trade in goods and services, investment, as well as bilateral technical cooperation and capacity building in areas such as sanitary and phytosanitary measures, intellectual property protection, construction, tourism, healthcare and telecommunications. For trade in goods, both Malaysia and Pakistan will progressively reduce or eliminate tariffs on agricultural and industrial products.
Accessed on 13 November
< http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Monday/NewsBreak/ >

PACIFIC ISLANDS
EU gives Pacific breathing space. Island Business International , 3 November 2007.
Pacific Islands countries have been given a breathing space after the European Commission (EC) decided to extend the deadline for the signing of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the two parties to December 2008. However, negotiations will continue on an interim agreement on the trading of goods and possibly services between the Pacific trade ministers and the EC. This agreement, a stepping-stone to a more comprehensive EPA, is expected to enter into force on 1 January 2008 and remain in force until succeeded by a comprehensive EPA. At the moment, only Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu are exporting to the EU countries. The exports are mainly sugar, fish and coffee—goods that would be included in the interim agreement.
Accessed on 5 November
< http://www.islandsbusiness.com/islands_business/index_dynamic/ >

AUSTRALIA
Inbound duty-free stores to sell more duty-free goods following Customs regulations change. ETravel Blackboard , 30 October 2007.
Inbound passengers arriving in Australia can now purchase a broader range of duty-free items, following an announcement from the Ministries for Justice and Customs, and Small Business and Tourism that inbound passengers are no longer limited to buying alcohol, cigarettes and perfumes from duty-free shops. Now, they can also handbags, cameras and sunglasses – goods that are no more than A$ 900 in value, weigh no more than 7 kg and are no more than 56 cm in length, 36 cm in height and 23 cm in depth.
Accessed on 30 October
< http://www.etravelblackboard.com/index.asp?id=70843&nav=108 >

CHINA
Chinese customs uncovers nearly 2,000 IPR infringements in first three quarters of 2007. China View , 15 November 2007.
Customs authorities uncovered 1,914 cases of intellectual property rights (IPR) infringement in the first three quarters of 2007. Goods involved in these cases were worth 230 million yuan renminbi. The General Administration of Customs (GAC has stepped up its efforts in IPR protection since it launched a five-month nationwide campaign named “Dragon Boat” on 1 October 2007. The campaign mainly targets IPR-infringing exports to the Hong Kong, China ; the European Union; United Arab Emirates and United States by shipment and mail.
Accessed on 16 November 2007
< http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-11/15/content_7076790.htm >

Pilot project to improve customs processes. People's Daily Online , 20 November 2007.
A pilot project involving Chinese and European customs was launched on 19 November to develop smart and secure trade lanes to speed up checking processes, counter the threat of terrorism and combat piracy and counterfeiting. The project, which will run for nine to 12 months, will focus on the transport of containers by sea between Rotterdam in the Netherlands, Felixstowe in the United Kingdom and Shenzhen in China. Under the plan, the three countries will try to align security standards, upgrade technology, exchange more information and accelerate the release of goods at customs. Ten Chinese companies and ten European ones, each of which has a good record with both Chinese and European customs, will take part in the pilot project.
Accessed on 21 November
< http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90776/6305499.html >

EUROPEAN UNION
EU mulls 30 per cent value addition for LDC exports. The Daily Star , 22 November 2007.
The EU member states are now considering a single stage 30 per cent value addition under a reform proposal to relax the Rules of Origin (RoO) governing duty-free import of products least-developed countries (LDCs). Local exporters from LDCs, particularly the apparel industry, have long been demanding a relaxed RoO on ground that they have not been able to derive benefit out of the duty-free market access to the EU under the umbrella of EBA (Everything But Arms) initiative due to stringent value addition criteria. The proposed legislation has to be adopted by EC Council of Ministers.
Accessed on 22 November
< http://www.thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=12552 >

INDIA
EU scraps 7.3 per cent tariff on blank compact discs from India. Bloomberg , 30 October 2007.
The European Union removed a 7.3 percent tariff on blank compact discs from India in a fresh show of support for EU buyers of Asian consumer electronics over higher-cost European producers. The duty, meant to punish exporters for receiving subsidies, was due to expire in June 2008. Over the past year, the EU has dropped tariffs on exporters of blank CDs from Taiwan Province of China, as well as a threat to impose duties on Chinese and Malaysian exporters of the product and backed away from introducing levies on recordable digital versatile discs from China and Taiwan Province of China.
Accessed on 31 October
< http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601091&sid=aRr3oK3r9nCA&refer=india >

New facility by Customs Department. Express India , 31 October 2007.
The Customs Department introduced a new Risk Management System (RMS) for speedy clearance of imported goods. The system, which became operational from 1 November 2007, aims at reducing the transaction cost of the department. The department has created a central server connected to all dry ports. Now, importers and exporters can make e-payments from any office all across the country, and also at www.icegate.gov.in . After the introduction of RMS, the documents submitted by importers and exporters via electronic data interchange (EDI) will be checked by the system.
Accessed on 31 October
< http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/New-facility-by-Customs-Dept/234364/ >

Single window clearance and uniform tariff sought for Haldia and Kolkata ports. Economic Times , 16 November 2007.
A committee constituted by the shipping ministry to look into the problems associated with container traffic at Kolkata and Haldia ports has recommended a uniform tariff structure for all container berths and creation of a single-window system to enable users to take various permissions and speedy clearance from customs, port authorities and the Container Corporation. It has also suggested demolition of existing unused warehouses and unused residential quarters for creating more yard space. The committee has given both short-term and long-term recommendations to cope with the likely growth in container traffic at both these ports.
Accessed on 16 November
< http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/Economy/Policy/ >

KAZAKHSTAN
Amendments to Customs Code of Kazakhstan approved. Kazinform , 31 October 2007.
A draft law on amendments to Kazakhstan 's Customs Code has been approved at the plenary sitting of the Majilis (Lower House of the Parliament) on 31 October 2007. This draft law provides with the exclusion of some articles from the Code impeding the customs registration of imported and exported goods.
Accessed on 5 November
< http://www.inform.kz/showarticle.php?lang=eng&id=156740 >

NIUE
Niue Government considers phased tax change. RNZI , 1 November 2007.
The Niue Government is considering bringing in planned tax changes in two stages. A year ago the Government had agreed in principle to bring in a consumption tax, cut personal taxes, reduce import duties and to re-impose an excise duty on a limited number of items. Niue is changing its tax base because the present system doesn't generate enough revenue while its commitment to the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations requires import duties to be progressively wiped. The Cabinet is now looking at phasing in the Niue Consumption Tax, or NCT, and the lower income taxes by the first of April next year. The proposal also suggests that the removal of import duties, and the imposition of excise tax on items such as tobacco and alcohol, be deferred until the following year or after an assessment of the revenue implications.
Accessed on 5 November < http://www.rnzi.com/pages/news.php?op=read&id=36163 >

PAKISTAN
Petroleum, oil and lubricant export to Afghanistan : New rules to take effect from January 2008. The Daily Times , 11 November 2007.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) said that the new procedure notified for export of petroleum, oil and lubricant (POL) products from Pakistan to Afghanistan would be applicable from 1 January 2008. According to the procedure, export permits shall be deemed cancelled if POL products are not transported to the destined customs station for export within fifteen days of its issuance or within such extended time not exceeding thirty days in all as may be allowed by the collector of origination. The new regulations provide specifications on transport units; procedures and conditions for licensing of a carrier; responsibilities of the carriers; transport documents; sealing and weighing of goods; clearance of goods for export at the exporting station; monitoring and checking of conveyance en route; break down or accident en route; and reconciliation of shipments of goods.
Accessed on 12 November
< http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007%5C11%5C11%5Cstory_11-11-2007_pg5_1 >

PHILIPPINES
Philippines and Republic of Korea sign Customs MoA. Manila Bulletin , 13 November 2007.
A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed between the Bureau of Customs (BoC) of the Philippines and the Korean Customs Bureau is seen to herald a stronger partnership between the two countries even as Korean firms gear to implement the use of container security device in monitoring their shipments. A representative of the Korean Customs Bureau is currently in Manila for six months to facilitate a pilot project which will link the two countries. An electronics company will be the first firm to test the container security device to monitor its shipments following the approval of the Korea Customs and Philippine Customs project. It will be introducing its container security device and attach a radio frequency identification (RFID) to the shipments to monitor its movement. The device can record the container ID, point-to-point shipment tracking, detect and record intrusions and other information such as temperature.
Accessed on 13 November
< http://www.mb.com.ph/BSNS20071113108453.html >

RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Russian Federation to extend zero duty on unpacked tea. Reuters , 12 November 2007.
The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade announced that the Russian Federation would extend indefinitely a zero tariff on unpacked tea imports initially set in February for nine months. A draft of the resolution to that effect has been sent to the Government for signing. In February, Russia scrapped a 5 per cent import tariff on unpacked black and green tea for nine months to stimulate domestic packaging and exports. Under Russian legislation, tariffs are scrapped initially for nine months, after which the Government takes a decision whether to drop them indefinitely or not. The Russian Federation is a tea drinking country, consuming over 170,000 tonnes of tea per year. Its main suppliers are China, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Sri Lanka and Viet Nam.
Accessed on 13 November
< http://in.reuters.com/article/businessNews/idINIndia-30456520071112 >

SHANGHAI COOPERATION ORGANIZATION (SCO)
Shanghai Cooperation Organization Prime Ministers vow to strengthen cooperation in customs and agriculture. China View , 3 November 2007.
Prime Ministers of the Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization signed a joint communiqué, vowing to strengthen cooperation in customs, agriculture, culture and education. The Heads of Government welcomed the signing of the agreement on customs cooperation between the SCO Member States and instructed customs working groups to continue to create conditions for unified customs clearance, the completion of administrative and transport procedures and mutual recognition of customs documents.
Accessed on 26 November
< http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-11/03/content_7002311.htm >

VIET NAM
Viet Nam removes liquefied gas and diesel import tariff. All Headline News, 19 November 2007.
Effective from 20 November, the Ministry of Finance has reduced to zero the tariff on imported liquefied gas and diesel. The measure seeks to stabilize the price of oil in the country. It is the second round of tariff reduction for November. Previously the import tax on liquefied gas was at 2 per cent, while diesel oil was taxed at 10 per cent. Viet Nam 's oil consumption has been on the rise the past few years following its rapid economic expansion. While the nation has an estimated 600 million barrels of oil reserves, it still relies on crude imports due to lack of refining capacity.
Accessed on 21 November
< http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7009211117 >

CHINA
China bans exports of drug-tainted toy. AP Google , 9 November 2007.
China has suspended exports of toys covered with a toxic chemical that have been subject to recalls from Australia to the United States. China 's move came as seven more American children were reported in poor health after ingesting Chinese-made toy beads because of the toxic chemical coating, bringing the total of sick children to nine. The Government's quality control administration issued the export ban, sealed the toys at the sites where they were produced and ordered an investigation.
Accessed on 12 November
< http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5j5Sq2QQErGcc4PRF5uYBE2vj1nYgD8SQIET00 >

China reviews anti-dumping duties on coated art paper from Japan and Republic of Korea. China View , 16 November 2007.
China 's Ministry of Commerce (MOC) has decided to re-evaluate the necessity of maintaining anti-dumping duties imposed four years ago on coated art paper imported from Japan and the Republic of Korea. The re-examination targets coated art paper imports from 1 October 2006 to 30 September 2007 and will determine their normal value and exports prices so as to estimate the dumping ranges. In its first anti-dumping investigation after joining the World Trade Organization, China imposed temporary anti-dumping tariffs on coated art paper imported from Japan, the Republic of Korea and the United States on 26 November 2002.
Accessed on 12 November < http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-11/06/content_7022883.htm >

Canada levies new duties on casings from China. China Daily , 20 November 2007.
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has made preliminary estimates to levy dumping and subsidy tariffs on certain seamless carbon or alloy steel oil and gas well casings made in China. It said Chinese products are subsidized by the Government and sold at unfairly low prices in the Canadian market. CBSA has decided that punitive tariffs from 15 per cent to 78 per cent would be collected on certain imports from China. Canada was the first country to launch countervailing investigation into products made in China. It has, so far, initiated five anti-dumping and countervailing investigations on Chinese goods since 2004.
Accessed on 21 November
< http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/bizchina/2007-11/20/content_6266370.htm >

EUROPEAN UNION
European steelmakers seeking anti-dumping action on Chinese imports. AFP Google , 29 October 2007.
European steelmakers called for EU anti-dumping action against imports from China, Taiwan Province of China and the Republic of Korea which they claim are flooding the European market at unfair prices. The European Steel and Iron Confederation (Eurofer) has filed two dumping complaints with the European Commission targeting cold-rolled, stainless flat steel from China, Taiwan Province of China and the Republic of Korea. After receiving a complaint, the Commission has 45 days to decide whether there are grounds for launching an anti-dumping investigation, which could lead to corrective measures such as import duties.
Accessed on 31 October
< http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5i-bX7KvaQPAwHs9wkCSmxUuKigpw >

EU trade chief delays anti-dumping reform. The Guardian , 20 November 2007.
The Commissioner of the European Union for Trade has delayed again long-awaited plans to modernize the bloc's anti-dumping rules in the face of growing protests from some European Governments. He launched a review of the EU's trade defence rules a year ago, asking if they needed changing to reflect the way many European companies have invested in manufacturing in countries such as China. He told the EC there was broad support for some changes to the trade defence rules, including making the system more transparent or easier to use for small companies. But on fundamental issues, such as redefining what is a “European company” in an age of offshore production, European business and Governments remained split and therefore guidelines were needed to clarify whether European companies that produce goods both in Europe and in low-cost countries such as China could be considered EU producers, and thus taken into consideration in anti-dumping cases.
Accessed on 22 November
< http://www.guardian.co.uk/feedarticle?id=7091604 >

PAKISTAN
EC bans sale of Pakistani food items. Business Recorder , 30 October 2007.
The European Commission has banned sale of food items exported from Pakistan to the EU due to non-compliance of food standards notified by EC. As a result of market control in the United Kingdom, peanut snacks exported from Pakistan were found contaminated with aflatoxins and was thus rejected for distribution in the country. The EC, in a letter sent to Pakistan 's Ambassador in Brussels, referred to EC regulation laying down the general principles and requirements of food law, establishing the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and laying down procedures in matters of food safety. Children, when exposed to aflatoxins, show sings of stunted growth and delayed development. Chronic exposure also leads to a high risk of developing liver cancer.
Accessed on 30 October
< http://www.brecorder.com/index.php?id=645633&currPageNo=1&query=&search=&term=&supDate = >

Pakistan seeks removal of non-tariff barriers on export of 20 items. The Hindu , 31 October 2007.
Pakistan has asked India to remove non-tariff barriers on the export of 20 products in a bid to narrow down the trade mismatch between the two countries. A list of 20 items had been sent to Indian authorities through the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. The list includes commodities like textiles, surgical products, sports and leather items and cutlery which face non-tariff barriers at Indian ports and entry points that restrict exports. The sending of the list of 20 items was the outcome of Commerce Secretary-level talks between the two countries in August, where it was decided that Pakistan would identify 20 products so that their exports to India could be facilitated. India will now inform Pakistan about the detailed import regime on these products.
Accessed on 5 November
< http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/001200710312125.htm >

Pakistan bans import of satellite equipment. Reuters , 13 November 2007.
Pakistan banned the import of satellite dishes and equipment on 13 November, more than a week after it blocked broadcasts by private news channels following the imposition of emergency rule on 3 November 2007 and after many people have switched to satellite broadcasts for their news. Import of satellite equipment shall be allowed into the country only after obtaining specific permission from the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority.

Accessed on 16 November < http://in.reuters.com/article/businessNews/idINIndia-30475020071113 >

RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Another Russian ban on Norwegian fish. Barents Observer , 30 November 2007.
Effective from 15 November 2007, only seven Norwegian exporters will be allowed to trade with the Russian Federation, according to the Russian Food Safety Authority. The decision comes in the wake of a similar import ban on Norwegian salmon. In early 2006, Russian veterinary authorities imposed a ban on salmon imports from Norway arguing that the fish contained too high doses of heavy metals.
Accessed on 31 October
< http://www.barentsobserver.com/index.php?id=552491&cat=16149&xforceredir=1&noredir=1 >

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
United States Congress panel proposes penalty tariffs on Chinese goods. AFP Google , 15 November 2007.
The United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission, appointed by the United States Congress, accused China of manipulating its currency and proposed that the Congress enact legislation to define currency manipulation as an illegal export subsidy and allow the subsidy to be taken into account when determining penalty tariffs. It also said that Congress should amend the law to allow currency manipulation to be added to other prohibited subsidies when calculating anti-dumping and countervailing duty penalties. The Senate is already considering bills that would allow the United States Government to push nations to adopt more market-based currency policies or face sanctions, and requiring the Treasury Department to penalize countries with “misaligned” currencies.
Accessed on 19 November 2007 < http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5gMjc50WjinE5fps7qWj5tI4Dx__Q >

VIET NAM
No evidence found of Viet Nam's apparel dumping in United States. Nhan Dan , 30 October 2007.
The United States Department of Commerce (DoC) has announced that it has not found any evidence of Viet Nam dumping textile and apparel products on the American market after monitoring the situation for six months. This is the first conclusion since the United States began to impose an import monitoring mechanism on textile and apparel products from Viet Nam in order to seek evidence in an anti-dumping lawsuit. However, the DoC said it would continue the import monitoring programme until the end of 2008. The second conclusion on the issue is expected to be announced in mid-March 2008.
Accessed on 31 October
< http://www.nhandan.com.vn/english/business/301007/business_no.htm >

WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION
China under fire at WTO for restrictions on foreign media. Trade Observatory , 12 November 2007.
China was criticized at the World Trade Organization for its restrictions on foreign news agencies who are unable to sell their information to local media. Canada, the European Union, Japan and the United States requested more information from China over the measures it introduced in 2006. In September 2006, China renewed the monopoly held by the state news agency, which precludes foreign providers of news financial information services from dealing directly with Chinese clients, but instead have to go through an affiliate of the state news agency. China responded that it did not make any commitments on news agency services during its WTO accession talks in 2001.
Accessed on 19 November
< http://www.tradeobservatory.org/headlines.cfm?refid=100761 >

CHINA
China raises threshold for drug certification. China Economic Net , 30 October 2007.
In the wake of several drug production scandals the Government of China has tightened application procedures for firms seeking to manufacture drugs. Effective from 1 January 2008, the threshold to qualify for a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification has been raised. The new standards are stricter in granting GMP certificates to drug manufacturers. Before revision, if less than three “severe defects” as defined in the standards were discovered in the entire drug making process, the manufacturers could still get a certificate if they corrected the problem within a prescribed time limit. The new standards allow no “severe defects”. The changes mainly dwell on technological requirements on management which concerns areas including personnel qualifications, production process, quality control and document verification in a bid to ensure drug quality. The new standards also stipulate that companies falsifying application documents shall be regarded as having a “severe defect,” meaning they will fail the GMP certification.
Accessed on 30 October
< http://en.ce.cn/Business/Macro-economic/200710/30/t20071030_13416844.shtml >

China to increase nuclear power capacity. China Economic Net , 4 November 2007.
The State Council has officially approved a plan to expand nuclear power generation capacity by 23 million kilowatts by from 2005 to 2020. According to a plan of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), China will have an installed nuclear power capacity of 40 million kilowatts by 2020, or four per cent of the total installed power generation capacity. New projects with a combined capacity of 23 million kilowatts will be launched, involving a total investment of 450 billion yuan renminbi. The sites for the planned capacity will be chosen from the coastal cities in Guangdong, Zhejiang, Shandong, Jiangsu, Liaoning and Fujian provinces. Currently, nuclear power capacity on the mainland stands at 169.68 million kilowatts, with 11 nuclear reactors in operation boasting a combined capacity of 90.68 million kilowatts and another eight units in construction.
Accessed on 5 November
< http://en.ce.cn/Industries/Energy&Mining/200711/04/t20071104_13471064.shtml >

Polluting companies to be shut out of stock market. SINA , 21 November 2007.
The State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA) announced that major industrial polluters would be barred from raising capital on the stock market. Enterprises found guilty of environmental violations or failing to meet pollutant discharge requirements will not be allowed to list their shares. In addition, starting 2009, all enterprises which discharge pollutants must obtain environmental permits, otherwise, they will not be allowed to continue, or start, operations. Maximum levels of pollutant emissions would be set for different regions and those that cross the limit will not be allowed to embark on new projects. SEPA also listed other key measures to combat water pollution, including enhancing the protection of drinking water resources and improving assessments of water exploitation projects.
Accessed on 22 November < http://english.sina.com/business/1/2007/1121/133017.html >

INDIA
Russian Federation and India sign pact for joint lunar research. PTI , 12 November 2007.
Taking their technological cooperation to new heights, India and the Russian Federation have signed a ten-year pact for the joint lunar research involving the launches of spacecraft to the moon using Indian launch vehicles. The agreement provides for the joint development of lunar orbiter, lander and rover and their launch with the help of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) from Indian space centre. The first mission will be solely Russian, but the second will be carried out jointly with India.
Accessed on 13 November
< http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/$All/ >

India calls for regulatory framework on CDM. Economic Times , 18 November 2007.
A survey by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry showed that Indian industry favours treating revenue earned from carbon credits as export earnings and wants a regulatory framework conducive to promote Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects. The survey found a need fro a CDM-friendly legal and regulatory framework. While Indian industry has responded positively to CDM, the carbon market in India faces institutional, financial and technical impediments such as lack of capacity building, information, high transaction costs and absence of guarantees from funding organizations. The survey, conducted across 50 companies from 17 industry sectors, underlines the need for an enabling environment in the country for carbon reduction projects. The survey further said that Indian entities should be created that would serve as verification and validation agencies for CDM projects, given that large number of such projects are in the pipeline in the country.
Accessed on 19 November
< http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/Economy/ >

INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE (IPCC)
Climate change report to warn of potentially ‘irreversible' impacts. WBCSD , 16 November 2007.
Less than three weeks before a crucial conference on climate change, UN experts agreed on a draft report that warns global warming may have far-reaching and irreversible consequences. The report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) encapsulates a massive overview of the global-warming problem, with the goal of guiding policymakers for the next five years. Human activities “could lead to abrupt or irreversible climate changes and impacts,” the agreed text said. The so-called synthesis report summarizes three documents issued this year covering the evidence for climate change; the present and possible future impacts of it; and the options for tackling the peril. The IPCC experts agreed that the rise in earth's temperature observed in the past few decades was principally due to human causes, not natural ones, as “climate skeptics” aver.
Accessed on 19 November
< http://www.wbcsd.org/Plugins/DocSearch/details.asp? >

INTERNATINOAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION (ITU)
International treaty sets future course for wireless. ITU , 16 November 2007.
The World Radiocommunication Conference 2007 (WRC-07) concluded its deliberations with the adoption of an international treaty to meet the global demand for radio-frequency spectrum. The international treaty, known as Radio Regulations governing the use of the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits were revised and updated by WRC-07 to achieve the global connectivity goals of the 21st Century. WRC-07 addressed some 30 agenda items related to almost all terrestrial and space radio services and applications, including future generations of mobile telephony, aeronautical telemetry and telecommand systems, satellite services including meteorological applications, maritime distress and safety signals, digital broadcasting, and the use of radio in the prediction and detection of natural disasters.
Accessed on 19 November
< http://www.itu.int/newsroom/press_releases/2007/36.html >

PACIFIC ISLANDS
Australia and France to fund Pacific broadband. People First Network (PFnet) , 20 November 2007.
Member countries and territories of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) have welcomed two major initiatives that are aimed at bridging the communication divide in the region. Australia will fund the Pacific rural satellite interconnectivity system (Pacific RICS) and France has committed to funding the SPIN submarine cable network. Both projects, which are spearheaded by SPC and the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, are aimed at improving access to communications technology, especially in rural areas.
Accessed on 26 November
< http://www.peoplefirst.net.sb/news/News.asp?IDnews=8088 >

PHILIPPINES
Philippines and China announce ethanol plant partnership. Trade Observatory , 29 October 2007.
A Philippine oil company and its Chinese partner are planning a US $30 million ethanol plant in the southern Philippines to profit from an expected biofuel boom. Construction is expected to start late next year. The Philippines in 2006 passed a law requiring that all liquid fuels for engines should contain some locally sourced biofuel within two years. Local oil retailers complain that the country does not produce enough biofuel to meet the law's requirement.
Accessed on 5 November < http://www.tradeobservatory.org/headlines.cfm?refid=100638 >

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
United States-Japan Telecom Mutual Recognition Agreement set to enter into force. USTR , 21 November 2007. The United States and Japan on 21 November completed final steps for implementation of a bilateral agreement to facilitate trade in telecommunications equipment. The United States-Japan Agreement on Mutual Recognition of the Results of Conformity Assessment Procedures (MRA) for telecommunications equipment will enter into force on 1 January 2008. This is the United States ' sixth telecommunications MRA covering certification, following MRAs with the EU and EEA-EFTA ( Iceland, Lichtenstein and Norway ) that cover telecommunications equipment among other things, and with Canada ; Hong Kong, China and Singapore under the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) telecommunications MRA. Based on this agreement, both the United States and Japan will be able to designate private-sector entities in their respective territories to test and certify telecommunications terminal and radio equipment as meeting the technical requirements of the other country.
Accessed on 22 November
< http://www.ustr.gov/Document_Library/Press_Releases/2007/November/US-Japan_Telecom_Mutual_Recognition_Agreement_Set_to_Enter_into_Force.html >

AZERBAIJAN
Azerbaijan and Estonia sign convention on double taxation avoidance. Trend Capital , 30 October 2007.
Azerbaijan and Estonia have signed a Convention on Avoidance of Double Taxation and Prevention of Tax Concealment. In the signing ceremony, the taxes minister of Azerbaijan highlighted interest in strengthening bilateral relations with Estonia. Estonia expressed interest in signing agreements with Azerbaijan in other spheres of the economy.
Accessed on 31 October
< http://capital.trend.az/?show=news&newsid=1064687&catid=507&subcatid=465&lang=EN >

Azerbaijani-Bulgarian agreements on double taxation avoiding and economic cooperation signed in Baku. Azerbaijan Business Centre , 12 November 2007.
Azerbaijan and Bulgaria have signed bilateral agreements on economic cooperation, antimonopoly policy and competition protection partnership.
Accessed on 16 November
< http://abc.az/cgi-bin/wnews_one.cgi?nid=19022&lang=eng >

CHINA
China to ease investment curbs in service sector. China Economic Net , 18 November 2007.
The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of China announced that China will gradually scrap restrictions on the destination, stock ownership and business scope of foreign investment in the service sector. The country will stick to its opening-up policy and promote a “quantity-to-quality transformation in attracting foreign investment”. Existing restrictions on foreign investment in key industries concerning China 's national security and its citizens livelihood remain unchanged. On 7 November, China released a new guide of industries open to foreign investment and foreign companies. It also listed those banned or restricted from entering the Chinese market. The new guide replaced the 2004 version and takes effect on 1 December 2007.
Accessed on 19 November
< http://en.ce.cn/Business/Macro-economic/200711/18/t20071118_13632394.shtml >

HONG KONG, CHINA
Hong Kong, China and Luxembourg sign tax pact. News.gov.hk , 2 November 2007.
Hong Kong, China and Luxembourg have signed an agreement on the avoidance of double taxation. The agreement will eliminate double taxation instances encountered by Hong Kong, China and Luxembourg investors, and bring about tax savings and certainty in tax liabilities in connection with cross-border economic activities. It will also help foster closer economic and trade links between the two countries and provide added incentives for Luxembourg enterprises to do business or invest in Hong Kong, China. The agreement is planned to come into force on 1 April 2008 in Hong Kong, China and on 1 January 2008 in Luxembourg.
Accessed on 5 November
< http://www.news.gov.hk/en/category/businessandfinance/071102/html/071102en03004.htm >

INDIA
Checks needed to manage inflows. Economic Times , 31 October 2007.
The Minister of Finance said that India needed to put in place appropriate regulations and risk management systems to manage the enormous capital flows. Foreign institutional investments into India surged to a record US$ 17 billion in the current fiscal year. With a view towards moderating capital flows, the Securities and Exchange Board – India 's market regulator – recently announced measures to curb the issuance of participatory notes, which give unregistered foreign investors access to India 's markets. Earlier, the central bank had placed certain restrictions on external commercial borrowings by domestic firms.
Accessed on 31 October
< http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/Economy/ >

Cabinet approves signing of Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement with Iceland. Top News , 15 November 2007.
The Union Cabinet gave its approval for signing of the Agreement between India and Iceland for Avoidance of Double Taxation and Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to taxes on income. The agreement will stimulate the flow of capital, technology and personnel from India to Iceland and vice-versa. It will provide tax stability and reduce any obstacles in providing mutual cooperation.
Accessed on 16 November
< http://www.topnews.in/cabinet-approves-signing-avoidance-double-taxation-agreement-iceland-26260 >

ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN
Three foreign banks permitted to work in Iran. Tehran Times , 13 November 2007.
The Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran (CBI) of announced that three foreign banks have received the permit to have banking activities in the Islamic Republic of Iran. The banks could work either independently or jointly.
Accessed on 13 November
< http://www.tehrantimes.com/index_View.asp?code=156945 >

MALAYSIA
Bank Negara may issue more licences to foreign banks. Business Times , 4 November 2007.
In an effort to bolster non-ringgit denominated Islamic banking, Bank Negara Malaysia may issue more licences to foreign banks that plan to conduct Islamic banking in multiple currencies. Currently, almost all of Malaysia 's Islamic banking activities, carried out by both local and international banks, use the ringgit. The central bank said it wants to bring in new players by issuing licences to banks that plan to do Islamic banking in all types of currencies. These banks would receive special tax incentives and they could either be local or foreign. They could also set up operations anywhere in the country and not just in offshore centres like Labuan. The initiative is part of the Government's proposal to set up the Malaysia International Islamic Financial Centre, which will offer offshore Islamic financial products and services from anywhere in Malaysia.
Accessed on 13 November
< http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BTIMES/Monday/Nation/bnmdu.xml/Article/ >

RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Duma OKs convention for avoidance of double taxation with Greece. Itar-Tass , 14 November 2007.
The Russian Federation 's State Duma has ratified the Convention for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to taxes between the Russian Federation and Greece. The Convention was signed in Moscow on 26 June 2000. It shall apply to persons who are residents of one or both of the contracting States. The document guarantees prevention of tax discrimination and regulates consideration of taxpayers' statements and settlement of disputes as well as exchange of information between the two countries.
Accessed on 16 November
< http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=12069393&PageNum=0 >

Russian Federation investment law postponed till 2008. Reuters , 8 November 2007.
The Ministry of Energy and Industry announced that the Russian Federation would postpone introduction of a law setting ground rules for foreign investment in ‘strategic' industries until 2008 as necessary amendments to subsoil legislation are not yet ready. The Parliament asked the Government to submit amendments to the existing subsoil law, which should define strategic natural resource deposits. The new investment law would then apply curbs to exploration of such deposits. The Ministries of Natural Resources, Industry and Energy, Economic Development and Trade and the Federal Security Service (FSB) have been involved in drafting the law.
Accessed on 26 November < http://uk.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idUKL0858143520071108 >

TURKEY
Turkey and Saudi Arabia agree on prevention of double taxation. Xinhua , 10 November 2007.
Turkey and Saudi Arabia have agreed on prevention of double taxation and tax fraud. The two countries have signed an agreement which aims at eliminating double taxation problems that arose along with the improvements in economic and commercial relations between the two countries. Under the agreement, the two countries' companies and individuals investing or working within each other's borders will no longer have to bear the burden of double taxation on earnings and income. The agreement will take effect once it is ratified in the parliaments of both countries. With the new signature Turkey has signed a total of 72 agreements on prevention of double taxation.
Accessed on 12 November
< http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-11/10/content_7045827.htm >

VIET NAM
Draft decree could have FDI employers pay union fee. Thanh Nien News, 30 October 2007.
A draft decree, prepared by the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) alongside the Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs, is slated to take effect within the next two months. Under the order, foreign-direct-investment employers would have to pay one per cent of their businesses' total monthly pre-tax profits to trade unions, who would then use the funds to support union workers. Under the Labor Code and the Union Law, trade unions can be established in local and foreign businesses and workers can voluntarily join the unions without punishment from their employers.
Accessed on 31 October
< http://www.thanhniennews.com/politics/?catid=1&newsid=32958 >

… Cannabis is replacing opium poppies in Afghanistan ?

As the Afghan and Western Governments focused on the problem of soaring Afghan opium production, which hit record levels this year and remains a booming industry, cannabis cultivation increased 40 per cent around the country.

Read the full report from the International Herald Tribune
< http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/04/asia/cannabis.php?page=2 >
Accessed on 13 November 2007.

… Malaysia plans a “Muslim car”?

A Malaysian carmaker has announced plans to develop an “Islamic car”, designed for Muslim motorists. The car would boast special features like a compass pointing to Mecca and a dedicated space to keep a copy of the Koran and a headscarf.

Read the full report from the BBC:
< http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7089707.stm >
Accessed on 13 November 2007

… Salaries of urban Chinese rose sharply in 2007?

The salaries of people working in China 's cities grew by 18.8 per cent in the first nine months of 2007, with those in state-owned firms rising the fastest.

Read the full report from SINA:
< http://english.sina.com/china/1/2007/1029/129783.html >
Accessed on 30 October 2007.

… Singapore 's economic boom widens income gap?

The proportion of Singapore residents earning less than S$1,000 (US$ 690) a month rose to 18 per cent last year, from 16 per cent in 2002. At the same time, the proportion of those earning S$8,000 and above rose from 4.7 per cent to 6 per cent in the same period. Singapore 's Gini coefficient, a measure of income inequality, has worsened from 42.5 in 1998 to 47.2 in 2006, and is now in league with the Philippines (46.1) and Guatemala (48.3), and below China (44.7). Other wealthy Asian nations such as Japan and the Republic of Korea have Gini coefficients of 24.9 and 31.6, respectively.

Read the full report from the Guardian:
< http://www.guardian.co.uk/feedarticle?id=7063347 >
Accessed on 13 November 2007.

… the first foreign-run restaurant will open in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea ?

A business person from the Republic of Korea is to open a fried chicken restaurant in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, believed to be the first foreign-run restaurant in the country. The 50-table outlet in Pyongyang will also run a chicken and beer home delivery service.

Read the full report from the BBC
< http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7074704.stm >
Accessed on 5 November 2007.

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The designations employed and the presentation of the material in this publication do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of the United Nations concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.