International News 23 April 2026
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Chery Targets EV Production in Europe
Chinese automaker Chery is stepping up its push into the European market. Most recently, the company plans to produce small-sized electric vehicles (EVs) directly in the region, targeting local consumers. Chery France Director Yanbang Yu said the company aims to deliver products that truly match local preferences. “We want to build French cars for French people,” he stated, as reported by Reuters (April 22). This move is part of Chery’s broader expansion strategy, as it remains China’s largest auto exporter. Of its total production of 2.8 million vehicles last year, roughly half were sold overseas. However, Chery’s presence in Europe is still relatively new and lags behind competitors such as SAIC Motor, which has been more aggressive through its MG brand.
https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/chery-bidik-produksi-ev-di-eropa
Moody’s Downgrades New Zealand’s Outlook to Negative Amid Rising Fiscal Risks
Moody’s has revised New Zealand’s credit rating outlook to “negative” from “stable,” citing rising fiscal risks amid global uncertainty. However, Moody’s affirmed the country’s top-tier “Aaa” rating, supported by strong institutions and a solid policy framework. In its report, as cited by Reuters on Wednesday (April 22, 2026), Moody’s highlighted that slower economic growth, tighter monetary policy, and increasing debt costs are putting pressure on the nation’s fiscal outlook.
Over 30 Nations Convene in London to Plan Mission for Reopening the Strait of Hormuz
More than 30 countries are holding a two-day military meeting in London starting Wednesday (April 22, 2026) to finalize plans for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil trade route affected by the Iran crisis. The UK government stated that the forum aims to translate diplomatic agreements into concrete operational plans on the ground. Its primary focus is to ensure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz while supporting the establishment of a sustainable ceasefire. This meeting follows last week’s discussions, during which over a dozen countries expressed their readiness to join an international mission led by the UK and France to safeguard maritime traffic in the region, conditions permitting.