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Intelligence for Better Decision Making
Erudite Risk takes an all risks approach to intelligence reporting. We categorize key intelligence into one of 40 different risk intelligence categories.
The goal is to provide intelligence that allows decision makers to avoid being blindsided by what they may have missed, while informing them to make better decisions as well.
Erudite Risk also includes operations categories so you can monitor the environment for better decision making. Everything is tied together--what happens in risk affects operations and what happens in the market impacts risk profiles.
We categorize key intelligence into one of 30 different operations intelligence categories.
Different roles and functions within the organization can monitor different key issue areas. HR may monitor employment, wages, regulations, labor and management relations, etc., while P&L leaders may monitor overall developing trends.
China-ASEAN economic, trade cooperation in fast lane
Peoples Daily | English | News | April 21, 2025 | UndeterminedTrade Issues and Numbers
China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have strengthened their economic and trade cooperation, positioning themselves as two of the largest economies globally. Their partnership, established over three decades, has evolved into a dynamic model of collaboration, facilitating stability and growth amid global economic uncertainties. With a combined population representing a quarter of the world's total, their commitment to win-win cooperation is evident in the increasing trade and investment between the two regions.
The effectiveness of their cooperation is highlighted by efficient logistics systems, exemplified in the swift delivery of Malaysian durians to Chinese consumers, which can occur within 24 hours. This reflects the broader trade relationship, where bilateral trade increased from under $8 billion in 1991 to nearly $1 trillion in 2024. As their largest trading partners, both sides have focused on enhancing trade facilitation through upgrades to the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA), with expectations that the recently concluded Version 3.0 will further open markets and align regulations.
Industrial collaboration is also thriving, as seen in the Thai-Chinese Rayong industrial zone, which has attracted over $5 billion in investment and created significant local employment. Key initiatives like Belt and Road cooperation and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) have bolstered these developments, improving regional connectivity and reducing logistics costs. Infrastructure projects, such as the China-Laos Railway, have transformed Laos into a land-linked region, facilitating cross-border trade and movement.
Additionally, China and ASEAN are enhancing financial safeguards and regional stability through policy collaboration. Cultural and educational exchanges are flourishing, providing opportunities for students, such as those at the newly-established China-ASEAN Institute of Energy, to engage in advanced learning. Emerging sectors like digital economy, artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and clean energy demonstrate the evolving fronts of cooperation. Innovations, including agricultural drones in Vietnam and a floating solar power plant in Indonesia, showcase the benefits of this partnership, contributing to productivity and sustainable development across ASEAN countries.
Update: Chinese FM calls for building South China Sea into sea of peace, friendship, cooperation
Indonesia News | English | News | April 21, 2025 | Shifting Geopolitical Alliances
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed the nation's commitment to collaborating with ASEAN countries to enhance communication and establish a peaceful environment in the South China Sea. He emphasized the importance of building consensus for an expedited conclusion of the Code of Conduct (COC), aiming to transform the area into one of peace, friendship, and cooperation. During a press conference, Wang highlighted that the South China Sea maintained peace and stability over the previous year, affirming it as a secure and busy route for international navigation.
Wang noted recent developments that demonstrate China's proactive approach, such as the signing of an intergovernmental maritime joint development document with Indonesia and the initiation of a bilateral dialogue with Malaysia regarding maritime issues. He stated that these efforts illustrate that challenges can be addressed through dialogue and that cooperative goals are achievable.
He also stressed the need for trust and rules to ensure enduring peace and security in the region. Wang pointed out the significance of implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and advancing trust-building with the COC. He confirmed that consultations on the COC are progressing, with the third reading of the text completed, expressing confidence in finalizing the COC soon.
Big pharma already hedging risk to reduce reliance on China: Zuellig Pharma
CNBC | English | News | April 18, 2025 | Supply Chain Issues
Zuellig Pharma reports that major pharmaceutical companies are increasingly taking steps to mitigate their reliance on China for supply chains. This shift is motivated by various factors, including the political and economic uncertainties associated with doing business in China.
Pharmaceutical firms are diversifying their manufacturing and sourcing strategies to include other regions, which can help minimize potential disruptions. This proactive approach is part of a broader trend among industries seeking to reduce risk in their supply chains amid global challenges.
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