China’s not quite zero Covid-19 policy
The efficacy of President Xi Jinping’s zero-Covid strategy has once again come into sharp focus, with China recording its first deaths from novel coronavirus since May.
Policy Matters
Metropolitan govt to construct new subway line in Tokyo, eying launch in 2040s
The line is expected to allow passengers convenient connections to the Shinkansen and other regional rail networks.
Editorial: Vote at 16?
The New Zealand Supreme Court lowering the voting age to 16, stating that the present minimum age is discriminatory.
Food delivery platforms call for level playing field in gig workers’ protection
Three of the largest food delivery platforms have called for further measures to protect cabbies, private-hire car drivers and freelance delivery workers.
Indonesia’s new minimum wage policy causes controversy
Under the new regulation, mayors and regents can set wages above, but not below the provincial minimum announced by governors.
Supply disruptions likely in South Korea as cargo union pushes ahead with strike
The union claimed the government has failed to continue the safe trucking freight rates system that both sides had agreed on in June.
Indonesia admits defeat in WTO nickel-export dispute
The minister explained that Indonesia was not obliged to retract its regulation as long as an appeal process was still ongoing.
Jokowi warns ministers to avoid UK-like ‘debacle’
Jokowi also noted that several countries had been struggling to maintain their macroeconomic conditions amid global-economic uncertainty.
Human rights, environment factors for Japanese companies when procuring palm oil
While palm oil is an inexpensive raw material, child labour and deforestation from producing palm oil are increasingly being acknowledged as problems.
China’s growth target at least 5% sensible: Policy advisor
As conditions have become more favourable for economic recovery, it is advisable to set the country's growth target at no less than 5 percent, he said.