News and Insights

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.

AI is advancing fast, bringing benefits and risks. Global regulation is needed but remains divided.

In 2025, the Baltic states—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—are advancing energy resilience and digital innovation amid heightened geopolitical tensions. Estonia launched planning for a 600 MW nuclear plant, Lithuania approved a €100M national AI Factory, and all three nations finalized synchronization with the European electricity grid. Latvia remains more cautious but aligned with regional priorities. These efforts reflect a shift toward long-term economic planning and greater alignment with the EU and NATO.

Since joining China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2017, Latin America has seen over 200 infrastructure and tech-focused projects, with 21 countries signing MOUs. The BRI offers an alternative to traditional Western financing but has also raised concerns about debt, sovereignty, and China's long-term commitment—evident in Panama’s recent exit from the initiative.

Poland is accelerating its energy transition to reduce coal reliance (57% in 2024) and reach climate neutrality by 2050. Major investments are being made in renewables, nuclear energy, and green hydrogen, backed by EU funds. Despite progress, regulatory and political challenges remain.

Speyside Group, a top consultancy in corporate affairs and public policy for the Global South, has expanded its leadership by appointing Rafael Arantes as Country Manager for Brazil and Rahul Sharma as Country Manager for India. These strategic hires highlight the firm’s commitment to strengthening its capabilities in key growth markets. Arantes brings over 15 years of experience in Brazil’s public and corporate affairs, while Sharma brings nearly two decades of expertise in India’s public policy and advocacy landscape.

Czechia has advanced in digital skills, startup growth, and AI potential, but still struggles with outdated public administration systems and slow digitalization of state services. Despite promising developments in the private tech sector, regulatory burdens and limited investments hinder progress. With general elections approaching in late 2025, changes in leadership may significantly affect the direction of digital transformation and economic policies.

Social media offers benefits for youth but also serious risks. Governments are regulating age limits and content, yet enforcement is inconsistent. Australia’s under-16 ban highlights both progress and challenges in protecting minors online.

Global campaigns often prioritize HQ-led messaging over local engagement, especially in the Global South, which now represents most of the world’s population and half its GDP. This creates a gap in meaningful, day-to-day stakeholder communication in emerging markets.

Poland’s healthcare system is under strain due to long wait times, rising chronic illnesses, and an aging population. The government plans to increase spending to 7% of GDP by 2027, supported by EU funds and public-private partnerships. Key opportunities lie in digital health, infrastructure, and innovation.