Category: Business

China’s shift toward technology and services is forcing manufacturing regions to adapt. A new series examines three areas — from Dongguan’s factories to older industrial hubs — and what the changes mean for global trade.

The Panama Canal is experiencing increased fuel and LNG transits as Middle East disruptions reroute energy shipments. ACP says water levels and scheduling allow higher traffic, but warns of wider economic risks if the crisis persists.

Hong Kong is seeking to use clearer crypto rules to attract firms and talent after some left for regulators like Dubai’s VARA; success will depend on the speed and substance of its reforms.

Telemetro reports that rising fuel prices are likely to raise supply-chain costs and squeeze margins for Panamanian producers, with possible impacts on prices, production and competitiveness.

Jet fuel costs have surged after strikes on Iran, prompting Chinese carriers and others to raise fares. Industry warnings say global airfares could climb 8–9% if the energy shock persists.

An op-ed argues Panama’s full fiscal territoriality, paired with Canal-led logistics and migration-linked investment incentives, forms a competitive ecosystem for long-term capital.

No Japanese business executives will attend this week’s China Development Forum in Beijing, an internal list seen by the South China Morning Post shows, highlighting strain in Sino-Japanese relations while about 80 foreign executives still plan to attend.

HKEX has launched its largest listing reform consultation since 2018, proposing measures to broaden a special regime for innovative companies as it seeks to strengthen its IPO competitiveness.

At the Feria de David in Chiriquí, producers showcased genetic improvements in cattle but warned that Panama still faces a national bovine deficit and needs stronger reproduction efforts.

A SONDA Panamá project lead argues that increasing women’s participation in technology is a strategic move to accelerate Panama’s digital transformation by broadening talent and boosting innovation.

The US Treasury temporarily authorised the sale and delivery of Iranian oil loaded onto ships before March 20, a short-term measure through April 19 to relieve a crude supply squeeze tied to the Middle East war.

TVN 2 reports a rise in fuel prices in Panama is increasing transport costs across the supply chain, leading restaurants and fondas to raise prices and squeezing consumers’ budgets.

At the Foro Económico 2026 launch, Apede president Giulia De Sanctis urged the government and private sector to adopt telework and staggered schedules to help citizens cope with rising fuel costs.

A Thai funeral director’s range of coffins, from US$30 to US$30,000, highlights the rise of Asia’s multibillion‑dollar death economy as ageing populations drive growing demand for end‑of‑life services.

A California federal jury found Elon Musk misled Twitter shareholders during his 2022 takeover attempt, calculating up to $2.6 billion in potential damages in a class-action suit.

Panama’s public debt has climbed above $60 billion after liability-management operations and a $500M multilateral disbursement. The MEF says moves aim to stabilize debt, while economists warn of structural deficit risks.

Reuters reports the Panama Canal is operating near top capacity as the war in Iran boosts LNG vessel traffic, canal chief Vasquez says, highlighting the waterway’s strategic role in global energy shipments.

IndexBox reports that Panama dismissed a port operator’s claims in a terminal concession dispute. The decision could influence investor confidence, operations and future concession terms.

The Maritime Executive reports Panama has issued a response after Hutchison described unspecified accusations as “scandalous.” Details were not available in the summary.

Hong Kong’s Global Talent Summit Week attracted over 7,000 in-person attendees and 130,000 online, underlining the city’s ongoing campaign to build a diverse international talent ecosystem.