INSIGHTS Global merchandise trade may modestly grow in early 2024 after underperforming in 2023, as per WTO Goods Trade Barometer. With a current index of 100.6, a slight recovery is expected, though geopolitical tensions pose risks. Q3 2023 saw a 0.4 per cent quarterly and 2.5 per cent yearly trade decrease, contrasting with slight increases in export orders. After a year marked by underperformance, early indicators suggest global merchandise trade might see modest growth in the opening mont

INSIGHTS CIDPEX 2024, the 31st China International Disposable Paper Expo, is scheduled for May 15-17, 2024, in Nanjing, China. It is expected to host over 900 exhibitors and 40,000 visitors. Organised by CNPPRI, it's the largest global event for the tissue and disposable hygiene industry, covering the full industry chain from raw materials to finished products. The 31st edition of the China International Disposable Paper Expo (CIDPEX 2024), the world's premier event showcasing the latest in

INSIGHTS Moody's forecasts G-20 economic growth to slow to 2.4 per cent in 2024, down from 2.9 per cent in 2023, with Argentina contracting. Major central banks, including the Fed and ECB, plan policy normalisation amid declining inflation. Despite geopolitical tensions, global economy shows stabilisation, with strong recoveries in emerging markets. Moody's anticipates a moderation in the Group of Twenty (G-20) economies' growth, projecting expansions of 2.4 per cent in 2024 and 2.6 per cent

INSIGHTS IEA finds global CO2 emissions rose less in 2023 despite higher energy demand, thanks to increased use of clean energy like solar PV, wind, and electric cars. Advanced economies see significant emission reductions and decreased coal demand. However, clean energy deployment remains uneven across regions, posing challenges to widespread adoption. Global energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions rose less strongly in 2023 than the year before even as total energy demand growth accel

INSIGHTS In January 2024, China saw a 23 per cent year-on-year increase in its international trade, reaching 4.23 trillion yuan (approximately $596.09 billion). The country's exports accounted for 2.02 trillion yuan in January, while the imports stood at 1.6 trillion yuan. This activity resulted in a trade surplus of 413 billion yuan in January 2024. China has experienced a significant boost in its international trade activities for January, with total trade in goods and services reaching 4.2

INSIGHTS The global shipping container fleet has experienced a 1 per cent increase, reaching 51.4 million TEU, with expectations of a 2.3 per cent growth in 2024. This growth is attributed to rising trade and disruptions in crucial maritime routes, including the Red Sea and Panama Canal. These disruptions have led to longer voyage times and inventory challenges. The global shipping industry is poised for growth, with an anticipated increase in the pool of shipping containers due to expanding

INSIGHTS China's goods trade achieved a $608 billion surplus in 2023, the 2nd highest on record, according to the State Administration of Foreign Exchange. The current account surplus hit $264.2 billion, with a 1.5 per cent surplus-to-GDP ratio, considered reasonable. This growth is credited to ongoing economic recovery, leading to quarter-by-quarter trade expansion. China's trade in goods yielded a substantial surplus of $608 billion last year, marking the second-highest level on record, as

INSIGHTS Research in Spain is focusing on a recycling pathway that transforms fabric waste into materials and lactic acid. The RECIMAP project, receiving funding from the EU, is working on the selective separation of cotton and polyester blends through the synthesis and use of ionic liquids—a more environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional solvents. Research at the Plastics Technology Centre (AIMPLAS) in Spain is focusing primarily on an innovative recycling pathway that tra

Red Sea-Suez Canal crisis may severely impact global trade of textiles and apparel. Many retail brands are continuing to face prolonged disruption on their supply chain as shipping companies continue to avoid the Suez Canal. There will surely be a domino impact for next several months. At this point, unfortunately it is almost unpredictable how the overall situation will unfold in the weeks to come. A very close watch is required even after several months have passed, as no solution is in sight

INSIGHTS In January 2024, the global supply chain saw a reduction in spare capacity, with the GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index indicating a move towards a tighter landscape. Disruption in the Red Sea led to higher transportation costs and increased safety stockpiling. Improvements in demand and robust supply conditions hint at a stronger 2024. In January 2024, there was a significant shift in global supply chain conditions, with a notable reduction in spare capacity across global supp