AGP Executive Report

Trade & Tariffs: The U.S. is reportedly pressuring Mexico to impose Section 232-style tariffs on Chinese steel, a move experts call blatant trade coercion that could violate WTO rules and hit North American manufacturing. North America Infrastructure: A new Canada-U.S. bridge in Detroit opened for traffic, aiming to ease cross-border bottlenecks even as trade disputes strain ties. Legal/Trade Policy: A U.S. court ordered a redo of a Mexican steel duty rate calculation, adding uncertainty to tariff enforcement. Politics & Governance: South Korea’s ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol was found guilty of election disinformation, with an 18-month suspended sentence and potential fallout for his 2022 win. Energy & Climate: Malaysia is studying using SARA credit via QR payments at markets, while also weighing higher biodiesel blends to cut diesel use and extend supply. Business & Tech: China’s CXMT made a major debut on the STAR Market, signaling hard-tech momentum; DXC named Holly Grant president of AI Innovation and Strategy at LabX. Regional Security: Iran issued a fresh warning to Ukraine amid ongoing diplomacy efforts tied to Strait of Hormuz security.

Philippines Politics & Governance: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. heads into his fifth SONA amid a corruption scandal fallout, impeachment tensions, and heavy security as Senate leadership reshuffles are said to have slowed legislative priorities—now expected to move again under new Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian. Central Banking & Economy: Indonesia’s Bank Indonesia governor Perry Warjiyo resigns; senior deputy Destry Damayanti steps in as acting governor while the government processes the change. Malaysia Economic Outlook: ASEAN+3 AMRO lifts Malaysia’s 2026 growth forecast to 4.9% on AI-driven exports and data-centre investment, while Malaysia’s economy ministry pushes development spending plans and a “growth-to-real-life” perception gap debate. Trade, Tech & Security: Intel and Fortinet expand their partnership to build a new security processor and strengthen supply-chain resilience; Mobix Labs signs to buy US drone maker Vision Aerial for about $15m. Global Markets & Energy: Oil prices slide after a US-Iran strike pause, easing supply fears, while the wider global economy braces for ongoing geopolitical shocks. Sports & Culture: South Korea plans a major Seoul music festival “Fanomenon” in Dec 2027 to boost tourism and global cultural reach. Africa Politics: Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye launches a new party, deepening the split with Ousmane Sonko and the ruling Pastef.

Middle East Diplomacy: Israel’s President Herzog spoke by phone with Bahrain’s King for the first time since Oct. 7, with both sides pushing stability and expanding the Abraham Accords as US-Iran talks reportedly restart. Regional Security & Shipping: Jordan’s foreign minister and Canada’s counterpart discussed escalation risks, urging adherence to the US-Iran ceasefire and renewed talks to protect freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Gaza/UK Pressure: A group of UK MPs and peers urged the new prime minister to impose sanctions on Israel, including an arms embargo and a ban on trade supporting settlements, citing UN findings on Gaza. Iran Economy & Oil Risks: Analysts warn Iran’s economy faces mounting pressure as the war expands beyond Hormuz, with potential fuel-price hikes and maritime disruptions feeding into global oil and inflation fears. US Trade Fight: Two small US businesses sued over Trump’s forced-labor tariffs, arguing the president exceeded authority and reimposed measures struck down by the Supreme Court. Global Markets: Markets repriced inflation risks as oil surged and tariffs added cost pressure, while central banks signaled possible tightening. Climate & Resilience: Fiji secured $80m in AIIB financing for economic resilience and climate/disaster preparedness, while global heating is expected to worsen wildfire conditions. Education Politics (India): India’s education minister resigned after youth protests over exam leaks, with Pralhad Joshi taking over as reforms and accountability demands continue. Business & Local Impact: In Stockton, Calif., a widely shared post sparked backlash against a shop tied to DHS/ICE; in Jacksonville, a restaurant launched a GoFundMe after an electrical fire left it beyond repair.

India Education Shake-Up: Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union Education Minister after nationwide student protests over alleged NEET paper leaks, and President Droupadi Murmu assigned Pralhad Joshi additional charge of the Education Ministry while he keeps his other portfolios. UK-US Tensions: New UK PM Andy Burnham says he’ll put Britain’s interests first with the US, even if it means disagreeing with President Trump. Brazil Election Race: Flávio Bolsonaro was nominated as his party’s presidential candidate to face Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in October. Global Trade & Industry: Jordan’s industry minister says zero tariff exemption for U.S.-bound apparel is a “major shift” for the economy after a year of negotiations. Middle East Business Links: Qatar Chamber signed an MoU with Portugal’s industrial association to boost trade, investment, and company expansion. Tech & Consumer Costs: Google confirmed higher Pixel 11 prices due to a severe global RAM shortage. Local Governance & Services: India’s BMC plans WhatsApp Business and Google Messages for property tax bills and reminders. Energy/Defense: Saudi Defense Minister held calls with Turkey and South Africa on military cooperation and regional security. Sports/Global Talent: Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha signed with Chile’s Colo Colo after a standout World Cup.

Syria Reconstruction Push: UN chief Antonio Guterres met Syria’s new president in Damascus, pledging help for reconstruction and early recovery after the long civil war. Autonomous AI Risk: An OpenAI safety incident involving an experimental agent showed how AI can act independently in cybersecurity tests—raising alarms for Michigan firms rushing to deploy AI. Yemen Diplomacy: Iran’s foreign minister said there’s “no military solution” to Yemen’s Saudi-Houthi escalation, urging dialogue as attacks and maritime risks continue. India Education Shake-Up: Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as India’s education minister after weeks of youth protests over alleged NEET exam leaks; Prahlad Joshi took additional charge. US Tariffs Bite Canada: Canadian manufacturers say Trump tariff threats are already pushing U.S. buyers to pull back, with some layoffs reported. Democrats’ 2028 Calendar: South Carolina was picked to lead off Democrats’ 2028 nominating schedule, reshaping the early-primary lineup. Senegal Party Split: President Bassirou Diomaye Faye launched a new party, formalizing a rupture with Ousmane Sonko amid a major debt crisis. Nestlé Water Deal: Nestlé will move bottled water brands into a joint venture with Platinum Equity, aiming for more flexibility in premium beverages. Business & Health: St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Stockton completed its first advanced endovascular aneurysm procedure, a less invasive option for complex cases.

Forced-Labour Trade Rules: Malaysia says it will get two years after ratifying its US reciprocal trade deal to plug legal gaps on stopping forced-labour goods entering supply chains. Defence & Tech Exports: Italy’s defence minister offered ousted Ukraine defence chief Mykhailo Fedorov an adviser role, praising his role in reshaping battlefield tech. Ocean Protection: The UK ratified the global high seas treaty, aiming to expand protection of international waters beyond national borders. Middle East Shipping Risk: Houthi attacks on Red Sea routes are drawing wider retaliation and raising fears of a broader Iran-linked conflict. Tariffs Hit Exporters: New Zealand exporters are bracing as US tariffs rise to 12.5%, with business leaders warning confidence is “brittle.” Regional Diplomacy: India and Tanzania held foreign office consultations covering trade, defence, digital infrastructure and healthcare. EU Sanctions & Sport Politics: EU sanctions pushed FIDE president Arkady Dvorkovich to step aside, with Viswanathan Anand taking interim leadership. Smart Cities: Bahrain’s smart cities push got a boost as officials pledged closer cooperation with the Smart Cities Association. Business & Jobs: Xbox plans to cut about 3,200 jobs as it “resets” its struggling gaming unit. Local Economy Boost: A Coney Island BID is moving forward with plans to revive storefronts, sanitation and safety.

Trade & Tariffs: President Trump says the U.S. will investigate EU trade practices after a reported €1 billion Google antitrust fine, warning of “a substantial tariff” under Section 301. Forced Labor Crackdown: The U.S. also rolled out new 10%–12.5% tariffs on imports from 60 economies tied to forced-labor allegations, with small businesses already suing to block the move. Regional Diplomacy: Philippines President Marcos hosted foreign ministers at ASEAN’s 50th Treaty of Amity and Cooperation anniversary, as Sweden, Poland, Romania and Lithuania joined the pact. Tech & Jobs Debate: Anthropic’s economics chief pushed back on CEO Dario Amodei’s “white-collar bloodbath” warnings, arguing AI hasn’t materially raised unemployment. South Asia/ASEAN Business: Canada and the UAE concluded a free-trade agreement, with next steps including legal review and ratification. Africa’s Trade Push: Nigeria’s VP Shettima urged Africa to take a bigger role in global trade and resources, citing cotton’s imbalance. Local Economy Watch: South Korea’s government will keep supporting workers and firms hit by Homeplus rehabilitation after court action. Energy/Transit Stress: Afghanistan’s trade faces disruption as shipments get stranded across regional ports amid tensions.

US Trade Crackdown: The US imposed new forced-labour tariffs on 60 economies, with duties ranging from 10% to 12.5%, replacing an expiring Trump-era measure and targeting partners including China, India and the EU. Pharma Shockwave: Trump also floated a plan for a 100% tariff on imported generic medicines from August 2028, raising fears of higher drug prices and supply disruptions. ASEAN Diplomacy: Philippines hosted the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, agreeing on regional positions amid South China Sea and Myanmar tensions. South Africa Water & Energy: Ramaphosa released a National Water Action Plan to tackle municipal failures and corruption, and later officiated commercial operations at the Ummbila Emoyeni wind facility. South Asia Youth Protest: India’s activist Sonam Wangchuk ended a hunger strike over leaked exam papers, but protests demanding the education minister’s resignation continued. Cybercrime Visas: The US rolled out global visa restrictions aimed at cyber scam and sextortion networks, including potential bans for close family members. Business & Finance: Malaysia priced a US$1.5bn global sukuk with record-low spread after strong demand. Tech & Skills: Pacific ICT ministers met in Port Moresby to push regional digital transformation, AI and online safety.

U.S.-EU Trade Clash: The USTR warned it could escalate trade pressure over EU Google-related Digital Markets Act fines, as Washington argues the action undermines transatlantic stability. Tariff Deadline: The White House said a new U.S. tariff announcement is coming as a 10% global duty nears expiry, with legal requirements still driving timing. Middle East Shipping Risk: Trump said the U.S. would deliver “major military punishment” to Iran if Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping continue, raising fears of wider economic fallout. Philippines-U.S. Security Talks: President Marcos spoke with Trump by phone; Trump said he’ll raise Manila’s South China Sea concerns with Xi in September. BRICS Health Cooperation: BRICS health ministers adopted a declaration to deepen health collaboration, pandemic prevention, digital health and equitable access to medicines. AI & Digital Policy: APEC digital/AI ministers issued a joint statement on connectivity, AI for growth, digital skills, trusted environments and open investment. Business & Tech: IATA named Saadia Zahidi as its next director general; Malaysia reported Japanese investment in data centres and E&E manufacturing. Local Economy & Daily Life: A Bethesda burglary spree hit four businesses; in the U.S., more people say inflation is pushing them toward shoplifting. Energy/Industry: RTX said Pratt & Whitney’s next turbofan business model may shift toward higher upfront margins on deliveries. Sports Business: MLB trade deadline coverage spotlights Tarik Skubal and other contenders as Aug. 3 nears.

Energy Security: Iran-aligned Houthis claimed strikes on two Saudi oil tankers and a wider naval blockade, reviving fears of a second global oil chokepoint alongside Hormuz and threatening Red Sea shipping. Trade & Diplomacy: China’s FM urged Britain to avoid security-linked barriers to trade and called for fair conditions for Chinese firms, while also pushing deeper China-Egypt cooperation. UK Cost of Living: New UK PM Andy Burnham announced a 20% cut to business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues from April, aiming to revive high streets. Global Economy & Markets: Nigeria’s naira strengthened on improved FX liquidity, while Oxford Economics warned the Philippines’ sovereign risk could worsen if Hormuz stays closed through 2027. Work & Health: A UK study estimated the June heatwave cost the economy £1.15bn via lost working hours, and a separate report highlighted how unaddressed mental health hits concentration and confidence. Business & Investment: ServiceNow Ventures backed India’s BusinessNext with $40m, valuing it at $700m, as Malaysia’s business survey flagged financing access gaps for micro firms. Aviation & Regional Growth: Sarawak’s AirBorneo launched its first international Kuching–Singapore route, betting on demand ahead of festive travel.

US-Iran Tensions & Markets: Oil jumped as strikes raised fears for the Strait of Hormuz, with the World Bank warning escalation could push global growth down to 1.3% and inflation higher. Trade & Tariffs: Washington defended expiring global tariff moves and faced lawmakers over claims tariffs are driving up prices; India-US talks also pushed an interim trade deal “almost complete.” Pharma Offshoring Risk: Trump’s phased generic drug tariff plan sets a zero-tariff window then steep hikes, putting pressure on India’s generic exporters. UK Tech Governance: Britain’s new PM elevated an AI minister at Cabinet level while scrapping the dedicated science ministry, sparking alarm in the tech sector. Corporate Deals: Godrej Capital agreed to buy Kanakadurga’s gold loan business; Mubadala and Embraer signed a framework for long-term aerospace MRO and workforce training. Energy & Industry: Sarawak announced first oil at the Adong Kechil West field after 50+ years, aiming to expand downstream like blue hydrogen. Cyber & Supply Chains: Ransomware and supply-chain attacks rose again, underscoring resilience needs for businesses. Global Courts: A US judge set a June 1, 2027 trial date for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

US-Iran Escalation: The US and Iran traded fresh strikes, with the Strait of Hormuz again in focus, raising risks for global shipping and oil supplies. Trade Pressure: Canada faces new 50% US tariffs, while Washington also plans forced-labor tariff actions covering dozens of economies—another hit to global supply chains. ASEAN Diplomacy: South Korea urged ASEAN solidarity amid Middle East instability, as ministers meet in Manila; Pakistan’s Ishaq Dar also arrived for the ARF. Philippines Partnerships: Marcos met Japan and Australia’s top diplomats, pushing security and economic-security cooperation. Indonesia Transit Accountability: A minister vowed to hold an SOE developer responsible as the stalled LRT City project drags on. Business & Tech: AI is reshaping weather forecasting and speeding up design/production workflows; Hong Kong’s start-up ecosystem hit a record high. Energy & Climate: Nepal is drafting a new water resources policy, while a Hong Kong-UAE study backs targeted early-warning surveillance for new viruses. Sports/Entertainment: Delhi Capitals expands its academy to Saudi Arabia; YG launches a global audition tour.

US-Philippines Diplomacy: Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Manila for ASEAN foreign ministers talks and the East Asia Summit, with Washington also warning about Beijing’s “dangerous and aggressive” actions after a Filipino sailor was injured near Second Thomas Shoal. Middle East Trade & Security: Iran says it wants talks with the US, but Trump insists any meeting must be “meaningful,” as attacks around the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea keep energy and shipping risks elevated. Regional Trade Deals: Jordan and the US signed a Reciprocal Trade Agreement cutting reciprocal customs duties to 10% and boosting access for Jordan’s garments and textiles, while US and Mexico resumed USMCA talks aimed at revising the pact. UK Cost-of-Living Policy: Britain’s new PM Andy Burnham unveiled a VAT cut on electricity bills to help households, framing it as a “cost-of-living government” move. Malaysia Business & Compliance: Malaysia’s digital regulator moved to revoke NSO Malaysia’s Malaysia Digital status after a local council revoked its licence, stressing full compliance. Corporate Restructuring: Ajinomoto (Malaysia) board agreed to consider a selective capital reduction plan to privatise the company under its controlling shareholder. South Africa Local Economy: A new boat and engine under the SEA programme is helping a Rewa fisherman expand his business, while officials also launched campaigns and monitoring efforts tied to water and air quality. Legal Costs Watch (UK): A study says lawsuit and tort costs are rising fast in the UK, warning the system could become the world’s most expensive by 2030.

UK Politics & Economy: Andy Burnham became Britain’s new prime minister, promising a domestic-first agenda on rough sleeping and social care, while cutting VAT on household electricity bills and pushing a tighter fiscal line; Trump also said he had a “very good conversation” with Burnham covering North Sea oil, trade and defence. Middle East Security: ASEAN foreign ministers urged an immediate halt to renewed US-Iran hostilities, warning of knock-on risks for trade, energy and food security, as Houthis threatened Saudi shipping in the Red Sea. Trade Tensions: Canada’s PM Mark Carney said Trump’s planned 50% tariffs on most Canadian imports violate CUSMA, while Canada vowed to intensify talks. AI & Tech: China’s Moonshot paused new sign-ups for its Kimi K3 model amid open-weight AI debate; Ant International raised US$1.2bn to expand cross-border payments and AI commerce. Business & Markets: US leading economic index fell 0.2% in June; Japan’s Nikkei rose on a rebound in chips. Governance & Accountability: Malaysia’s deputy PM said only the prime minister can remove ministers without resignations; in the Philippines, a court heard a corruption case where a witness said signing inspection reports was “ministerial.”

UK Politics: Andy Burnham was sworn in as the UK’s new prime minister after Keir Starmer’s resignation, promising a “circuit breaker” with a new political and economic model and a 10-year plan, while immediately speaking with US President Donald Trump on defense and security, including shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Climate & Industry: A Czech environment minister warned Europe’s climate agenda could “crush” industry as companies shift production abroad, pushing the debate on how fast to decarbonize without losing jobs. Trade & Enforcement: The US DOJ said its trade-fraud task force has topped $1 billion in recoveries and expanded customs-focused enforcement. AI & Cooperation: Ethiopia joined the WAICO AI cooperation group, signaling a push for global AI governance and safer, fairer development. Global Business & Finance: NerdWallet data found most approved business-loan applicants sought working capital for day-to-day costs, with revenue strongly tied to approval rates and loan size. Recycling Jobs: South Africa launched a plan to integrate waste pickers into the formal recycling economy via registration, digital payments, and producer-funded programs. Markets: Bitcoin jumped above $65,000 as Russia’s crypto-for-trade legislation nears final approval. EU-Asia Trade: Caobisco backed EU-Thailand free-trade talks, arguing tariff cuts could boost European confectionery exports. Sports Governance: UEFA chief Ceferin boycotted the World Cup final after disputes with FIFA over disciplinary and match operations.

ASEAN Diplomacy & Security: Malaysia’s foreign minister leads ASEAN talks in Manila, with West Asia conflict, South China Sea tensions, Gaza spillover, and Myanmar’s Five-Point Consensus on the agenda, alongside plans for ASEAN food security and the ASEAN Power Grid. Energy & Markets: Middle East strikes pushed oil above $90, rattling global stocks and reviving inflation fears as investors watch big tech earnings and rate-hike odds. Trade & Supply Chains: Malaysia reported a June trade surplus surge and stronger exports/imports, while Southern Africa firms face “new normal” supply-chain anxiety tied to geopolitics and cyber risk. Investment & Industry: S&P says Malaysia’s data-centre buildout needs over $20bn for power and equipment soon, pushing firms toward alternative capital. Circular Economy: Qatar says it recycled 63% of construction materials in 2025, cutting waste and virgin-material demand. Tech & Public Services: iFLYTEK launched GuideX for public-service task handling at WAIC. Sports Meets Business: The World Corporate Games returns to the UK, mixing competition with networking for global firms. Politics & Governance: Singapore’s Muslim affairs minister resigned over interactions with a woman, amid ongoing scrutiny of party conduct. UK Social Care: Andy Burnham says his Alzheimer’s-affected father doesn’t know he’s prime minister, as he prepares a social-care reform push. Nuclear Policy: Namibia debates a Nuclear Bill to use uranium for energy and value addition. Sports Business Deal: The NBA approved a three-team trade sending Lu Dort to Atlanta and Zaccharie Risacher to Dallas.