World News

Chinese manufacturers are under global scrutiny for selling counterfeit personal protective equipment (PPE). In February, authorities confiscated over 31 million substandard face masks and arrested 1,560 suspects involved in fraudulent production and distribution of coronavirus gear.

As the coronavirus spreads globally, countries implementing export bans on essential medical equipment like face masks and protective gear risk compromising international pandemic response efforts and leaving vulnerable populations without critical healthcare resources.

Indonesia's $24 billion coronavirus economic package is criticized by analysts as inadequate to prevent widespread job losses. Experts argue the stimulus funds are spread too thin across healthcare, social protection, and economic support sectors, leaving vulnerable workers and small businesses at risk.

A survey by NNA reveals that over 65% of Japanese manufacturers in Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and India are experiencing severe supply chain challenges. More than 80% report difficulties sourcing parts and materials, with some countries experiencing up to 95.8% import-related disruptions.

Bangladesh's crucial apparel industry, which contributes 80% of the country's exports, is collapsing due to global pandemic-driven order cancellations. Major international brands like H&M and Target are withdrawing contracts, potentially leaving millions of low-wage workers jobless and threatening the nation's economic stability.

The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines reports international passenger demand in Asia dropped 43.9% in February as coronavirus concerns triggered widespread travel bans. Airlines collectively carried only 17 million passengers, with revenue passenger kilometers falling 34.8% and available seat capacity reducing by 20.6%.

The Vietnamese government is accelerating the Long Thanh International Airport project in Dong Nai province. With $490 million already allocated, authorities aim to begin construction by August, working on site clearance and compensating 5,000 affected households totaling $782.5 million.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi implemented a complete nationwide lockdown across India's 36 states and territories to prevent coronavirus transmission. The unprecedented measure aims to protect citizens by halting non-essential activities and travel, marking the world's largest pandemic containment effort.

The Philippine government has ordered Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies to finalize their Work from Home arrangements by March 29 at 11:59 PM, extending the previous deadline of March 20. The memorandum allows BPO workers to transport equipment home and provides guidelines for export-oriented companies to support remote work.

Economists predict a global recession as coronavirus impacts deepen, with 31 out of 41 experts polled by Reuters confirming severe economic disruption. JP Morgan's global economic research head Bruce Kasman states that nearly all world economies will contract between February and April.