Blog Category: General
Trade Update September #1: US Batteries, EU Chips, UK to join CPTPP, Malaysia, South India FDI
In recent years, the United States has witnessed a remarkable surge in investments in battery energy storage systems (BESS). This trend is driven by the growing demand for renewable energy sources, the need for grid stability, and advancements in battery technology. As the country transitions towards a more sustainable energy future, battery storage is playing a pivotal role in ensuring reliability and efficiency. The Driving Forces Behind the Surge 1. Renewable Energy Integration As the adoption of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power increases, the need for efficient energy storage solutions becomes critical. Battery storage systems help in balancing supply and demand, storing excess energy generated during peak production times and releasing it when needed.
Trade Update August #3: Ethiopia, Canada, South Korea, South Africa, India
In a significant move towards bolstering renewable energy initiatives in Africa, AMEA Power has signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) and Implementation Agreement (IA) with Ethiopian Electric Power for the development of the Aysha-1 Wind Project. This 300MW wind farm, located in Ethiopia's Somali region, is set to become the largest wind energy project in the Horn of Africa.
Trade Update August #2: Costa Rica, UAE, Egypt, Chile, Data Centres
Costa Rica is experiencing a surge of optimism in its microchip industry, buoyed by recent developments and strategic investments. This Central American nation is positioning itself as a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain, thanks to significant support from the United States.
Trade Update August #1: Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Vietnam
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), a global leader in renewable energy investments, has recently secured two offshore wind feasibility licenses in Australia, marking a significant milestone in the country's renewable energy landscape. These projects, covering nearly 1,300 km² of seabed, have the potential to deliver up to 4.4 GW of capacity, enough to power approximately 2.4 million homes. To spearhead these initiatives, CIP has launched a new platform company, Southerly Ten, dedicated to the development and delivery of offshore wind projects in Australia. This move underscores CIP's commitment to establishing a robust offshore wind industry in the region, contributing to Australia's green energy transition while creating economic and job opportunities.
Trade Update July #5: Poland, Mexico, Singapore, Germany, Missouri, Edinburgh
Lightsource BP, a leading solar energy developer, has announced the commencement of commercial operations for its first solar project in Poland. The 40MW solar farm, located in the village of Kotuń, marks a significant milestone in the company's efforts to expand its renewable energy footprint in Europe. The Kotuń solar project is part of a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with Microsoft, signed in September 2023. This agreement supports Microsoft's ambitious goal of achieving 100% renewable energy supply by 2025. The solar farm, spanning 76,000 square meters, is expected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 30,000 homes, significantly contributing to the decarbonization of Poland's energy grid.
Trade Update July #4: UK FDI, Sri Lanka Thailand, Chips, Europe, G7
The United Kingdom has seen a significant increase in its Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects, even as Europe's overall FDI project total has declined. UK's FDI Growth In 2023, the UK was home to 985 FDI projects, marking a 6% increase from the previous year. This growth has been driven by a resurgence in digital investment, securing over a quarter (27%) of all European tech projects last year. The UK's share of Europe’s inward investment market grew to 17.3%, up from 15.6% in 2022.
Trade Update July #3: Silicon Box, Q1 Scientific, Tesla v BYD
In a groundbreaking move that marks a significant milestone in the global semiconductor industry, Singapore-based tech giant, Silicon Box, has announced plans to establish an advanced packaging foundry in Novara, Piedmont, Italy. This ambitious project, backed by an investment of €3.2 billion, underscores Silicon Box's commitment to driving innovation and expanding its global footprint. This article delves into the implications of this development, exploring how it stands to reshape the tech landscape and bolster Italy's position in the high-tech manufacturing sector.
Trade Update July #2: EFRA, Serbia, Morocco, Europe, Leith, Indonesia
In the ever-changing landscape of global politics, the impact of governmental shifts on international trade cannot be overstated. This article aims to explore what a Labour government could mean for the United Kingdom's international trade dynamics. The Labour Party, with its rich history and distinct political stance, has often championed policies that significantly influence the UK's trade relations. As we delve into this topic, we will examine the party's historical approach to international trade, their current policy stance, and potential future directions under their governance.
Trade Update July #1: Uzbekistan, Thailand Bhutan, Lichfield
Uzbekistan, a nation with a rich history of scientific and cultural achievements, is once again emerging as a beacon of innovation and research. After years of economic and political transformation, the country is rediscovering its scientific edge, driven by a renewed focus on education, technology, and international collaboration. Recent initiatives, such as the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (2022-2030), highlight Uzbekistan's commitment to fostering a robust scientific community and integrating modern technologies into various sectors. This article explores the key developments and strategies that are propelling Uzbekistan towards a future of scientific excellence and global competitiveness.
Trade Update June #4: USA, Taiwan, India Mexico, Brussels
The United States has consistently been a beacon for global investors, maintaining its position as the world's top destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for the 12th consecutive year. This is a testament to the strength and resilience of the U.S. economy, which continues to attract investors from around the globe. The U.S. has seen a significant increase in its FDI position, with an increase of $506 billion, or 11.3 percent, last year. This growth outpaces the average increase of 7.1 percent in national currencies for the 112 economies that reported data.