South Korea is very concerned about its economy because the exports of its major conglomerates like Samsung Electronics and Hyundai Motors have declined. Although their domestic production and exports are decreasing, they are producing more in foreign countries and increasing their exports from these host countries.
In early September the Korean shipping company, Hanjin, went into bankruptcy, no longer able carry the burden of its $5.5 billion debt, a long string of losses, and brutally intense competition coupled with the loss of support from its bankers.
Chinese authorities impose penalties on Pfizer for problems relating to erection of Viagra displays. Mainland government policies like the Silk Road Initiative and other factors influence Taiwanese Electric and Electronic Manufacturer’s Association new rankings of favored mainland investment destinations. China Development Bank (CDB) intensifies funding for Chinese overseas investments, deeming the “timing for acquisition is very good.” China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation breaks ground on subway car factory in Springfield (USA). US will take action against Chinese individuals and companies involved in commercial espionage. Japanese companies worth with Japanese universities and government agencies to attract talented IT students, especially from India. Indonesia inward foreign direct investment (FDI) ranked highest among all Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members in the first semester of 2015. Indonesia finally opts to cancel its high-speed rail project disappointing Chinese and Japanese bidders. Foxconn balks at building electronics factory in Indonesia due to government unwillingness to provide free land. Thailand examines boosting incentives for investing in certain sectors in its special economic zones (SEZs). Vietnam draws increasing FDI in its processing and manufacturing sectors especially from Korea. Mongolian Minister negotiating deal over Tavan Tolgoi throws cold water on idea a deal will be struck soon. APEC creates fund to support open trade and investment in mining and sustainable mining.
Foreign car companies launch recalls for cars imported into and produced in China. GlaxoSmithKline rehires employee who may have revealed its bribery activities in China. China public security organs will establish network security offices in leading Internet firms. Facing soaring costs at home, Chinese textile firms invest in the US to take advantage of lower production costs. Chinese firms increasingly planting agricultural investment in places like Australia. Mitsubishi Materials arrives at a settlement with conscripted Chinese workers. Japan will send high-level minister to Iran to explore investment and trade opportunities. Korean Economic Research Institute calls for government to reduce restrictions and provide better services to improve Korea’s inward FDI performance. Australian court overturns massive Adani group (India) mine, rail, and port project in Australia. Indonesia to issue new tax holiday policy. Vietnam touts growing M&A and policies to support greater foreign investment in Vietnam. Vietnam recognizes contribution of foreign firms to promoting the sale of Vietnamese goods.
