The Language of Raising Cross-Border Concerns Thailand has proposed an unusual addition to its trade relationship with China: an early-warning mechanism. The proposal follows a sharp increase in imports from China. Rather than waiting for concerns about possible dumping to develop into a formal trade dispute, Thailand has proposed a channel through which the two sides could identify warning signs, exchange information, and consult while the situation is still developing. There is an...

On September 20, Hong Kong and ASEAN representatives signed a protocol adding schedules of reservations to their existing Investment Agreement. It is a technical development, but an instructive one. The agreement contains commitments to National Treatment and Most Favoured Nation Treatment, providing for non-discriminatory treatment of enterprises and investments. The schedules specify measures that remain reserved. The provisions will apply once the reservations incorporated through the...

The opening of China’s 134 kilometre Pinglu Canal creates a new direct water route from western and southwestern China to the Beibu Gulf, removing more than 560 kilometres from the previous inland waterway journey. The immediate business case for infrastructure like this is easy to understand. Shorter routes can change the economics of moving goods and make previously less accessible markets more practical. But connectivity also creates a second challenge: Infrastructure can shorten the route...