Record-breaking cocaine bust on vessel ⚓

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Welcome to all our new subscribers and a warm “Ahoy” to our loyal readers. Another new week, let's take a look 🔭

In today’s email:

  •  Heated: ⚔️ China & European Union trade war intensifies.

  • Ups & Downs: 🇯🇵 Why Japan’s currency is so volatile.

  • No Thanks: 💣 Cargo ship with explosive fertilizer stranded off UK coast.

  • Another One: 😲 Record cocaine bust on Polish ship off Brazilian coast.

TRADE NEWS

China Hits EU with Anti-Dumping Blow Amid Trade Tensions

China has implemented anti-dumping measures on European Union (EU) brandy imports, a move it claims is necessary to protect its domestic industry. This decision targets prominent French brands, including Hennessy and Remy Martin, which China alleges have been unfairly priced in its market. The measures come shortly after the EU imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), escalating trade tensions between the two economic powerhouses.

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce justified the action as a legitimate trade remedy, stating that their preliminary investigation revealed that EU brandy imports posed a substantial threat to local producers. In defense of its actions, China emphasized that the measures align with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. Meanwhile, China has strongly opposed the EU’s EV tariffs, calling them unjustified and lacking factual or legal support.

These developments represent a significant escalation in trade relations between the EU and China, especially as Beijing has hinted at further retaliatory tariffs, particularly targeting German-made large-engine vehicles. German exports of these vehicles to China, valued at $1.2 billion last year, could face new tariffs, further intensifying the trade dispute.

This tit-for-tat trade conflict highlights the broader strain on China-EU relations, as both sides look to safeguard their industries in a highly competitive global market. With both parties seeking WTO support, this trade row may extend further into other sectors, creating additional challenges for businesses on both sides of the divide. See Clip

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VIDEO OF THE WEEK

Why Japan's Currency Is So Volatile

The global market selloff on August 5th 2024 sent shockwaves through financial markets, driven by concerns over a potential US slowdown, fears of an AI bubble, and the unwinding of a yen-centered carry trade. With the yen's value surging after the Bank of Japan's second interest rate hike this year, investors and business owners in Japan are now re-evaluating the currency's impact on the global economy.

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How to get a Certificate of Origin from a Chamber of Commerce. Understand the importance of a Certificate of Origin, how it's issued by the Chamber of Commerce, and its role in trade.

GLOBAL TRADE SNIPPETS

Cargo ship with explosive fertilizer stranded off UK coast. A cargo ship carrying tonnes of potentially explosive Russian fertilizer is stranded off the coast of Kent, UK. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure public safety and prevent any accidents.

South Korea and Singapore sign supply chain partnership. South Korea and Singapore have entered a new supply chain partnership, aiming to strengthen cooperation in trade and logistics, and enhance regional stability amid global disruptions.

New Zealand navy ship sinks in rough waters. A New Zealand navy ship has sunk in severe weather conditions, highlighting the challenges faced during maritime operations. Authorities are investigating the cause, while efforts are underway to ensure safety and recovery.

FTX cleared to repay customers after bankruptcy plan approval. FTX has received approval for its bankruptcy plan, enabling the company to begin repaying billions to customers. This marks a crucial step toward resolving the financial fallout from its collapse.

SHIPPING NEWS

Record Cocaine Haul Uncovered on Polish Ship Anchored Off Brazil

A record-breaking cocaine seizure occurred on the bulk carrier Jawor while it was anchored off the coast of Maranhão, Brazil. On October 5, 2024, Brazil's Federal Police confiscated 500 kilograms of cocaine, the largest amount ever seized in the state's history. The vessel, operated by the Polish Steamship Company (Polsteam), was anchored near the Port of Itaqui, preparing to load soybeans destined for Spain.

The crew found suspicious packages in a forward storage area and reported them to authorities. It's suspected that the drugs were loaded onto the vessel overnight by perpetrators using small boats while the ship was anchored. The Federal Police launched a search operation, boarding the ship using helicopters. All 20 crew members, from Poland, Ukraine, Bulgaria, and Romania, are under investigation.

This incident highlights a growing trend of drug cartels using commercial ships to smuggle illegal substances into Europe. Similar cases have involved security lapses at South American ports, which were exploited by drug traffickers.

The operation underscores the need for improved maritime surveillance, with advanced inspections and security protocols playing a vital role in preventing smuggling activities on commercial vessels.

SHIPWRECK OF THE WEEK ⚓️☠️

Launched in the early 20th century, the Tabarka was a British ship used primarily as a blockship during World War II. In 1944, it was deliberately sunk off the coast of Alderney in the English Channel to prevent enemy ships from entering the harbor. Today, the wreck of the Tabarka is a popular dive site, known for its relatively shallow depth and intact structure........................ Click to see Shipwreck👀

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