International News 29 September 2025
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Singapore Pharma Exports Face U.S. Tariff Threats
Singapore’s pharmaceutical sector is facing uncertainty after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 100% tariff on branded drug imports, unless companies set up manufacturing plants in the U.S. Singapore currently exports about US$3.1 billion worth of branded pharmaceuticals to the U.S., accounting for roughly 13% of its total exports to the market. Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong said firms are seeking clarification on whether they qualify for exemptions, as many already plan to expand their U.S. presence. Ongoing negotiations between both governments focus on possible exemptions for pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, with hopes of avoiding disruption to bilateral trade.
Tariffs have already raised Singapore’s effective export duty to 7.8% in July 2025, up from 6.8% in April, following increases on steel and aluminum. Broader U.S. sectoral tariffs could weigh heavily on Singapore’s exports, with semiconductors, electronics, and pharma products making up 40% of shipments to the U.S.. Gan stressed that Singapore aims for a trade deal that secures “special treatment” to keep its industries competitive. Without such an agreement, demand for Singaporean exports could face significant pressure, especially in the high-value pharmaceutical sector.
Vietnam’s Fruit and Vegetable Exports Surge to Record Levels
Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports are projected to exceed US$6.11 billion in the first nine months of 2025, marking an annual growth of 8.3%, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. In September alone, shipments hit a record US$1.29 billion, up 36% from August and 41% year-on-year. With this momentum, the sector is on track to approach or even surpass US$8 billion by year-end. Key free trade partners—including Japan, South Korea, the EU, and China—remain top destinations to secure stable, long-term demand.
Authorities are working to resolve customs and regulatory challenges, particularly for durian exports to China, while also expanding promotional campaigns for high-potential products such as coconut, dragon fruit, mango, mangosteen, and passion fruit. In the longer term, Vietnam is pushing exporters to diversify into processed goods, offering healthier, value-added options with longer shelf lives and lower transport costs. This strategy aims to strengthen Vietnam’s competitiveness in the global agri-food market while adapting to shifting consumer preferences.
UK Backs Jaguar Land Rover Supply Chain with £1.5 Billion Loan Guarantee
The UK government has announced a £1.5 billion (US$2 billion) loan guarantee to support Jaguar Land Rover’s (JLR) supply chain, following a month-long production halt triggered by a cyberattack. JLR, owned by India’s Tata Motors, suspended operations across its three major UK plants near Birmingham and Liverpool, which normally produce around 1,000 vehicles per day. The shutdown left smaller suppliers vulnerable, many of whom warned they only had enough cash reserves to survive about a week without production. Some firms have already cut working hours and jobs due to the disruption.
UK Business Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized the attack was not just on an iconic British brand, but on the nation’s world-class automotive industry. The support will be delivered through UK Export Finance, with private lenders providing the loans and the government acting as guarantor. The scheme aims to keep JLR’s supply chain intact, protect skilled jobs, and stabilize the wider auto sector.