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Why Malaysia is considering a ban on palm oil exports to the European Union

17 Sept 22:22 Key points summarised by AI

Malaysia, the world’s second-largest palm oil producer, is considering a ban on exports to the European Union, viewing the bloc's new import restrictions as discriminatory trade barriers.
The EU's regulations, including a deforestation law and a directive to phase out palm-based transportation fuels by 2030, have fueled a long-standing dispute, prompting Malaysia and Indonesia to file World Trade Organisation suits.
Despite Malaysia's efforts to meet sustainability standards, the EU continues imposing new curbs, leading Malaysia to plan cooperation with Indonesia to combat perceived 'discrimination' and actively explore new export markets.

Today 14:58 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's government will launch the "Chainat-Pasak-Gulf" water diversion canal project in fiscal year 2027, a seven-year mega-infrastructure initiative.
This permanent structural solution aims to mitigate recurrent central plains flooding by diverting water from the Chao Phraya River directly into the Gulf of Thailand, significantly reducing flow to major cities like Ayutthaya and Bangkok.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul justifies the long-term investment as a means to reduce future damages and fiscal burdens, contrasting it with the 40-50 billion baht spent annually on short-term flood relief.
Concurrently, the Prime Minister instructed officials to expand drainage capacity into the Tha Chin River and swiftly remove water hyacinths to improve immediate flood management.