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European growth faces pressure from US tariffs, China – EBRD

LONDON, United Kingdom — Economic growth in southeast Europe is expected to be strained next year by US tariffs, increased competition from China and government budget pressures, Europe’s development bank forecast Thursday. The London-based European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) slightly downgraded its growth forecast for its regions in 2026, while revising upwards its expectations

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Philippines to extend rice import moratorium, hike tariff

MANILA, Philippines — The government is set to extend the moratorium on rice importation and raise tariffs on imported grains to help stabilize palay (unmilled rice) prices at the peak of harvest season. President Marcos has directed the Department of Agriculture (DA) to prepare the necessary orders to extend the import freeze, according to Agriculture Secretary

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WTO says end of China’s special status aids fair trade

GENEVA, Switzerland — The World Trade Organization hailed Wednesday Beijing’s decision to no longer seek new special treatment in future WTO talks, calling it a step towards a more equitable global trading system. “This is a pivotal moment for the WTO,” organization chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said in a statement. “China’s decision reflects a commitment to a

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Coconut exports seen to grow 15%

MANILA, Philippines — Amid fluctuating prices, revenues from coconut exports are projected to reach up to $3 billion in 2026 because of the expected increase in production and steady demand. This is according to the United Coconut Association of the Philippines Inc. (UCAP), whose forecast represents a 15.4 percent increase from its 2025 estimate of $2.6