Trump’s tariff battle with China has ‘echoes of the Vietnam war’, US economist says

The UK government is contemplating new foreign influence regulations that could target specific elements of China's security apparatus, which are believed to engage in interference activities. This consideration is part of a broader evaluation of the balance between security concerns and the economic benefits of strengthening ties with Beijing. The potential inclusion of these Chinese state entities in the enhanced tier of the foreign influence registration scheme (Firs) reflects ongoing discussions about national security and...

SummaryChinese President Xi Jinping is set to begin a tour of Southeast Asia on Monday, with Vietnam as his first stop, amid ongoing tensions from a trade war with the US. The trip, which will also include visits to Malaysia and Cambodia, is characterized by Chinese officials as one of “major importance” for strengthening regional ties. As Xi embarks on this tour, China urges the US to end the trade conflict and return to a...

Read a summary of this article on FAST.Get bite-sized news via a newcards interface. Give it a try. Click here to return to FAST Tap here to return to FAST FASTSINGAPORE: Lawyer Kawal Pal Singh and new face Elysa Chen were seen alongside Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat during a walkabout at Toa Payoh West Market and Food Centre on Sunday (Apr 13) morning. Speaking on the sidelines of the walkabout, Mr Chee, a Member...

Donald Trump has ended the 'de-minimis' rule, a duty-free exemption for low-priced goods from China and Hong Kong, which is expected to increase prices for retailers like Temu amid escalating trade tensions. This change, part of a broader tariff policy announced last week, will affect packages under $800 that previously faced minimal inspections and no tariffs. Experts warn that the impending price hikes on affordable clothing may drive consumers to seek alternatives, impacting the fast...

Read a summary of this article on FAST.Get bite-sized news via a newcards interface. Give it a try. Click here to return to FAST Tap here to return to FAST FASTSINGAPORE: The People’s Action Party (PAP) on Sunday (Apr 13) formally announced its slate of four candidates who will be contesting in the Workers’ Party-held Sengkang GRC in the upcoming General Elections.They are: former senior minister of state Lam Pin Min, 56; National University of...

Read a summary of this article on FAST.Get bite-sized news via a newcards interface. Give it a try. Click here to return to FAST Tap here to return to FAST FASTSINGAPORE: The People's Alliance for Reform (PAR) on Sunday (Apr 13) called for free education, school meals, and healthcare for every Singaporean child – policies it said it would pursue if elected to parliament. PAR secretary-general Lim Tean emphasized the need to alleviate living costs...