Author: Jean-Michel Bezat
The trade war between the EU and China escalated quickly, with Beijing retaliating against Brussels’ tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles by imposing security deposits on European brandy imports, particularly hitting cognac. The Chinese ministry of commerce warned importers to pay up or face retroactive charges, claiming its domestic brandy industry is at risk. France and the EU plan to challenge these measures at the WTO, despite years of unresolved disputes within the organization. ‘Notification of tax intentions’ The threat had been looming since January, when Beijing began investigating EU wine-based spirits in response to Brussels’ probe into Chinese state subsidies.…
A Rafale on display over Indonesia, July 24, 2024. YASUYOSHI CHIBA / AFP French defense equipment exports in 2023 revealed a decline in orders compared to previous years, with Dassault Aviation’s Rafale fighter jet driving major sales. Despite a lower total of €8.2 billion, the Ministry of Armed Forces anticipates a stronger 2024 fueled by upcoming contracts for Rafales, marine versions, and submarines. Key purchasers included Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, India, Angola, and Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of export momentum for the French defense industry. The report underscores the necessity of evaluating export trends over longer periods to grasp the impact…
An armored vehicle produced by Rheinmetall is shown at the Eurosatory international trade fair in Villepinte on June 17, 2024. BENOIT TESSIER / REUTERS Tanks, once thought consigned to history, are making a comeback with the Russian-Ukrainian war, though on a smaller scale. Amidst this resurgence, competition between German, American, and South Korean manufacturers for military equipment has been fierce. Italian aerospace company Leonardo’s recent partnership with Rheinmetall Group to supply a new combat tank to the Italian army signifies a shift in European defense alliances and technologies. This collaboration marks a strategic move for Italy, strengthening its position in…
French army soldiers stand next to a “Griffon” armored vehicle during a demonstration at the Eurosatory international land and air-land defense and security show, in Villepinte (Seine-Saint-Denis), on Sunday, June 16. VALENTINE CHAPUIS / AFP The echoes of the cannon in Ukraine are heard even in Villepinte this June, where Eurosatory, the world’s largest land armaments show, is taking place. With 2,000 exhibitors from 61 countries showcasing cutting-edge military technology, the impact of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict is evident. This high-intensity warfare has seen advancements fueled by artificial intelligence, from guns to cyber defense systems. Read more Subscribers only No region…
The crisis in New Caledonia stems from the volatility of the nickel industry, which has been in turmoil for over a decade. The island’s dependency on nickel, which accounts for a significant portion of the world’s reserves, has led to social unrest and violence. However, nickel has always been a crucial part of the economy and plays a role in wealth-sharing agreements in the region. Despite its importance, the nickel industry is facing challenges, with prices dropping significantly in recent years. Production has fallen, leading to plant closures and job losses. Major players like Vale, Glencore, and Trafigura have exited…