News and Insights

Adult vaccination in Asia-Pacific remains low despite growing demand. Key barriers include poor access, low awareness, cultural hesitancy, and high costs. COVID-19 strained vaccine budgets, limiting coverage for other diseases. Innovative funding and better communication are essential.

Singapore’s 2025 budget focuses on supporting citizens, boosting business competitiveness, and preparing for future challenges. Key measures include tax rebates, investments in tech and clean energy, and workforce development—positioning Singapore as a resilient and forward-looking economy.

Trump’s return has reignited tensions with Latin America through stricter immigration, aid cuts, and tariff threats. Mexico is responding pragmatically, Colombia has taken a confrontational stance, and Brazil maintains a more independent approach due to its economic strength.

Trump’s return has disrupted U.S. foreign aid, impacting African countries like Kenya. His administration is expected to prioritize Africa mainly through competition with China and commercial interests. The future of key programs like AGOA remains uncertain, while other global players expand their influence in the region.

India’s 2025–26 budget aims to boost economic growth while keeping the fiscal deficit at 4.4%. It focuses on infrastructure, manufacturing (especially MSMEs and EVs), healthcare, agriculture, and digital innovation. Key reforms include tax relief for the middle class, support for startups and gig workers, and steps to attract foreign investment.

Poland is advancing its position as a tech leader in Central and Eastern Europe through its EUR 1 billion AI Fund and long-term Digital Strategy 2035, focusing on AI, blockchain, and smart cities. Supported by innovation hubs and education reform, the country aims to transform sectors like healthcare and public services. However, U.S. restrictions on AI chip exports and low digital adoption rankings challenge its progress. Despite this, Poland’s strategic location, talent pool, and EU support position it to become a regional innovation hub.

The inauguration of Peru’s Chancay Mega-Port—financed and built with Chinese investment—marks a major geopolitical and economic shift in Latin America. The port is expected to boost Peru’s economy and strengthen China–LATAM trade, especially in e-commerce and critical minerals. However, it threatens existing ports in Chile and regional competitors like Amazon and MercadoLibre. The U.S. is countering China’s influence through investment in Chile’s San Antonio port, while other countries like Colombia and Nicaragua are also stepping up port infrastructure to remain competitive.

In 2025, Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) stands out in the global crypto scene as a region balancing EU regulation and innovation. Countries like Poland, Estonia, and the Czech Republic offer strong tech ecosystems, regulatory sandboxes, and skilled talent. While VC funding dipped in 2023, public-private partnerships and interest in crypto beyond currency—like blockchain in identity and supply chains—highlight CEE's potential for digital asset growth.

Thailand’s politics shifted after the Move Forward Party’s dissolution, the removal of PM Srettha, and the rise of Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Prime Minister. While she vows to continue past policies and boost the economy, public concern remains over her inexperience and family influence. Progressives remain strong, keeping pressure on the new government.

Following Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s election victory, Indonesia is set for key policy shifts, especially in healthcare. Their agenda includes expanding medical faculties, modernizing hospitals, and easing access to medical technology. However, regulations like TKDN requirements, Halal certification, and strict compliance frameworks pose challenges to MedTech growth. Still, opportunities exist for foreign companies through local investment, partnerships, and advocacy for more inclusive policies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP-led alliance (NDA) won India’s 2024 general election but lost its majority, making Modi dependent on coalition partners for the first time in a decade. Regional parties and the resurgence of the opposition—especially Congress under Rahul Gandhi—will significantly influence policymaking, potentially complicating key reforms and shifting political dynamics.

Claudia Sheinbaum won Mexico’s 2024 presidential election with a historic margin, becoming the first woman president. Her landslide victory ensures continuity of López Obrador’s policies, with MORENA and allies likely securing a legislative majority. This strengthens Sheinbaum’s ability to pass constitutional reforms and pursue strategic projects, while pledging support for private investment and nearshoring opportunities.