Samsung is shifting its supplier selection criteria in Vietnam, prioritizing quality and sustainability over mere pricing. With $24 billion in investments, the company aims to enhance local manufacturing through smart factories and human resource development. Vietnam’s strategic location and commitments to globalization position it as a burgeoning hub for supply chains.
Category: Business
Nickel Recovery Emerges as Indonesia’s Industrial Advantage
Indonesia’s economic leaders are focusing on electric mobility’s future, particularly the development of a battery recycling industry. At the Jakarta Investment Festival Summit 2026, Luhut Pandjaitan advocated for reclaiming nickel from used batteries to strengthen the supply chain. He emphasized the need for sustainable practices, investment in supporting industries, and policies benefiting local communities.
Thailand’s SMEs Eye Global Growth Through Free Trade Agreements
Thailand’s Department of Foreign Trade is prioritizing support for small and medium-sized enterprises ahead of the 2027 Thailand–EFTA Free Trade Agreement. This initiative aims to enhance market access in Europe and improve the quality of Thai exports. Promotions and strategies are planned to maximize FTA benefits, particularly in emerging markets.
Forest Fire Haze Grounds Flights Across Kalimantan, Indonesia
Forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan have severely impacted aviation, causing low visibility at airports and leading to flight delays and diversions. The haze has also heightened public health concerns and inflicted substantial economic losses. AirNav Indonesia is enhancing monitoring and coordination to prioritize aviation safety amid these challenges.
The Netherlands Repositions Reserves Amid Global Uncertainty
The Dutch central bank recently transferred 86 metric tons of gold to the Bank of England, highlighting concerns over geopolitical tensions and the need for accessible reserves. This shift, reflecting a broader European trend, underscores a diminishing reliance on U.S. vaults and emphasizes gold’s role in ensuring liquidity and financial sovereignty amid uncertainty.
Thailand’s Export Reinvention Amid China’s Changing Import Demands
China’s agricultural sector is achieving self-reliance, drastically cutting imports of grains and meats while boosting exports. Thailand faces pressure on rice and sugar exports but can capitalize on rising demand for premium fruits and seafood. To succeed, Thai exporters must enhance quality, diversify markets, and adapt to changing consumer preferences in China.
Thailand sees rise in COVID and flu infections
Thailand’s public health faces challenges as COVID-19 and influenza cases rise simultaneously. With nearly 100,000 COVID-19 cases and 15 deaths, vulnerable demographics are notably older adults. Influenza infections have exceeded 330,000, leading to 48 deaths, primarily in schoolchildren and seniors. Health officials advocate for preventive measures to protect high-risk groups.
Thailand’s Bold Bet on Producing Food from Thin Sky
Air to Food technology is a transformative innovation leveraging biotech to convert carbon emissions into protein, addressing global food security and sustainability. Thailand aims to lead in this sector, tapping into lucrative markets like aquafeed and nutraceuticals. Challenges exist, but existing strengths in food production provide a solid foundation for development.
Malaysia Elevates Agriculture with Space Technology Partnership
The Department of Agriculture and the Malaysian Space Agency have strengthened their partnership to utilize space and geospatial technology in agriculture. This initiative aims to enhance planning and management, improve monitoring through efficient data collection, and promote data-driven decisions. The collaboration seeks to modernize Malaysia’s agricultural sector and ensure sustainability.
Vietnam Signals Global Ambition Through First AI‑Focused Make in Vietnam Award
The Make in Vietnam Digital Technology Product Award 2026 will now include a category for artificial intelligence, as announced by the Ministry of Science and Technology. This initiative aims to boost domestic AI development and enhance productivity. The award invites businesses to register by October 15, with the ceremony planned for later this year.
