News and Insights

Rising food prices in Central and Eastern Europe have triggered government interventions that are reshaping the Food and Beverage sector. Romania’s statutory price caps and Slovakia’s transparency tools highlight the growing policy risks. F&B companies face challenges with margins, contracts, operations and reputation as political pressure on food inflation intensifies

Upcoming pivotal elections in Czechia (October 2025) and Hungary (April 2026) are creating significant business uncertainty across Central and Eastern Europe. In the Czech election, Andrej Babiš's populist ANO party is leading polls but faces a difficult path to forming a government, signaling potential gridlock. Meanwhile, the Hungarian election presents a novel challenge to Viktor Orbán's Fidesz from Péter Magyar's new Tisza party, though the incumbent retains structural advantages. For businesses, these political crossroads mean predictable policy delays, regulatory instability, and shifting EU relations, requiring flexible engagement and strategic planning for multiple outcomes.

Investing in healthcare and establishing universal access pathways is crucial for accelerating societal and economic growth, especially in resource-constrained environments. Examples from the Global South demonstrate that universal coverage reforms and essential benefits packages not only improve health equity but also accelerate and sustain economic growth long-term.

Thailand's government is in upheaval after the Constitutional Court removed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leading to the appointment of Anutin Charnvirakul. This new leadership is based on a fragile, temporary agreement to dissolve Parliament within four months, stalling major legislation. For businesses, this means a period of significant uncertainty, as economic policy will be tactical and short-term rather than strategic.

Since 28 August 2025, Indonesia has witnessed a wave of nationwide demonstrations, with significant unrest concentrated in Jakarta, where clashes broke out between security forces and protesters organized by the Coalition of Labor Unions and the Labor Party.

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, European NATO members, particularly on the eastern flank, have dramatically increased defense spending, with many now exceeding 2% of their GDP.

The U.S.-India trade relationship has soured after the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods, with more threatened over India's oil purchases from Russia.

The Trump administration's 15% tariff on EU exports has forced Europe into a deal involving substantial U.S. energy purchases and investments.

MFN cuts U.S. drug costs but may hurt access in poorer countries.

The EU advances textile circularity; CEE faces uneven readiness.

Mexico boosts local pharma with new procurement incentives.

Trump's 50% tariff on Brazil is a political move tied to support for Bolsonaro and a challenge to BRICS.