Nicotine replacement products categorised as ‘non-poison’ from Oct 6: Health minister
Through the exemption, access to nicotine replacement products is now easier and wider through over-the-counter purchases at retail stores.
Policy Matters
China launches policies to keep students rested
In April 2021, the ministry issued a guideline to require students to go to bed by a certain time, even if they did not finish their homework in time.
Plan to abolish Gender Ministry involves merger into larger ministry, lawmakers told
Gender Equality Minister Kim Hyun-sook confirmed the abolition of the ministry, and said on Oct 5 that it was coordinating details with the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.
Inflation bites harder as Indonesia braces for ballooning transportation costs
The central bank expects core inflation to increase at a rapid pace, which has prompted the central bank to hike its rates over the last two months.
Japanese transportation companies look to credit cards as cheaper payment option
Paying for public transportation by credit card is expected to spread further when more overseas tourists come to Japan in the near future.
Hong Kong disburses 2nd instalment of e-voucher under Phase II
A spokesman for the Hong Kong government said the e-vouchers were disbursed via six stored value facility operators.
Indonesian Agriculture Ministry under pressure to release detained imports
With around Rp 30 billion worth of imports detained, demurrage, utility costs and other expenses so far amount to some Rp 8 billion in losses incurred by the importers.
South Korea’s ruling party calls for end to PCR tests for arrivals
Vice-minister of Health and Welfare Lee Ki-il said the government will seek disease control measures in a “flexible” manner as the spread of the virus is subsiding,
Hong Kong to release 10-year residential land supply forecast
The government will put three residential land sites out to tender in the fourth quarter of this year, estimated to provide 2,500 residential units.
Indonesia electricity provider PLN aborts electric stove conversion program in last-minute decision
The government previously considered providing free electric stoves for millions to reduce Indonesia’s dependence on imported liquefied petroleum gas.