Featured News
Stay on top of the latest business news from across Asia. Here we bring you a selection of the latest articles on economic, regulatory, tax, HR, and payroll developments published on our respective regional platforms.
×
China Briefing
China’s Free Trade Zone Expands to 23 with Inner Mongolia Addition
China’s approval of the Inner Mongolia Pilot Free Trade Zone brings the country’s total FTZ count to 23, completing the national FTZ map and opening new channels in rare earths, AI computing, and cross‑border logistics. The key question for investors is how these policy ambitions translate into actionable opportunities.
Is WFOE Still the Right Corporate Structure for China in 2026?
A wholly foreign‑owned enterprise (WFOE) remains the preferred entry structure for many foreign investors in China in 2026, provided the target sector permits full foreign ownership and the business requires direct operational control.
China's Agentic AI Boom: What the OpenClaw Surge Reveals
China’s rapid uptake of OpenClaw highlights the country’s transition from experimental generative AI toward agentic, task‑executing systems. The shift is reshaping China’s AI value chain, with implications for cloud services, enterprise automation, and foreign market entry strategies.
China’s New Vehicle Data Export Guidelines: How Automakers Should Prepare
China has released the 2026 Guidelines for the Security of Cross Border Transfer of Vehicle Data, offering industry-specific clarity on data export compliance requirements.
India Briefing
Import-Export Procedures in India: 2026 Edition
India’s import-export procedures in 2026 are fully digitized, with streamlined customs systems, IEC-based registration, and real-time compliance under FTP 2023. Businesses must follow standardized classification and digital processes to manage trade efficiently and stay compliant.
New Compliance Rules for Exporters: DGFT Mandates Digital Certificate of Origin
India’s export compliance framework is undergoing a significant shift as the DGFT mandates fully digital issuance and stricter oversight of the Certificate of Origin (CoO). The amendments to FTP and HBP 2023 streamline verification and reinforce regulatory oversight.
GST 2.0: How India’s New HSN and SAC Code Structure Transforms Tax Compliance for Businesses
India’s GST 2.0 ushers in a major tax overhaul, revising Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) and Service Accounting Codes (SAC) codes to simplify compliance. Businesses must realign systems, classifications, and input tax credit (ITC) claims for efficiency.
India Expands Export Controls with New SCOMET Category 7 for Emerging Technologies
India has amended its SCOMET (Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment, and Technologies) list with a new Category 7, introducing export controls on advanced semiconductors, quantum tech, cryogenic systems, and related software.
Vietnam Briefing
Vietnam FDI Update: Q1 2026 Performance and Key Trends
Vietnam’s FDI in Q1 2026 shows a strong rebound in new commitments and steady disbursement growth, indicating continued investor confidence despite global volatility.
Vietnam Visa Costs: What You Need to Know
Vietnam's visa costs change regularly. Here is an updated list of Vietnam visa fees for 2026, following the issuance of Circular No. 28/2026/TT-BTC.
Examining Vietnam’s First BESS Pricing Framework: Circular 62
Circular 62/2025/TT-BCT introduces Vietnam’s first official pricing framework for standalone, grid-connected BESS.
Vietnam Tightens Intellectual Property Registration Framework from April 1, 2026
Vietnam will implement major updates to its intellectual property system starting April 1, 2026, under the revised IP Law.
ASEAN Briefing
VAT on Cross-Border Digital and Service Transactions in Vietnam: What Foreign Businesses Must Get Right
Foreign businesses face VAT exposure from the first transaction in Vietnam. Explore key risks, pricing implications, and structuring considerations.
Branch vs Subsidiary in Vietnam: Corporate Income Tax Impact
Planning entry into Vietnam? Understand how corporate tax shapes profit allocation, repatriation, and risk when choosing your structure.
Thailand’s Omnibus Law Plan Streamlining Regulation and Cutting Business Costs
Thailand’s omnibus law and 180-day super license aim to simplify approvals, reduce costs, and improve investment timelines. Here’s what it means for foreign investors.
Singapore’s Business Support Measures Amid Shifting Cost Conditions
Singapore’s policy shifts require businesses to adjust pricing, manage costs, and align currency exposure in 2026.