Each week Frontier Strategy Group’s global team shares their view on key media stories, and what the implications are for businesses that operate in emerging markets. For more information about how to contact our analysts, send us an email.

Cheng Siew Chua on “Businessmen tackle Duterte’s economic agenda”

“The Philippines’ new 10 point socioeconomic agenda will look to improve the country’s business landscape by tackling infrastructure bottlenecks and reforming tax packages. However, the agenda does not remove restrictions on foreign ownership in industries such as utilities and mining sectors, and these limits will put a cap on how much foreign direct investments the Philippines can attract.”

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Natalia Duarte on “The Panama Canal Expands”

“The Panama Canal expansion will open on June 26, doubling its cargo capacity. The canal, which accounts for nearly 10% of Panama’s GDP, will be more competitive and could see a 16-17% revenue increase in 2017. While the shipping industry is unlikely to change in the near term, US ports will require significant investment to handle larger ships expected to transport more cargo from South America.”

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Pratima Singh on “Overhaul of FDI norms a welcome move, but there’s scope for improvement”

“Although not a game changer, easing FDI restrictions in key sectors is a step in the right direction. Multinationals should, however, read the fine print carefully as some of the definitions and caveats are important to determine business impact. The timing, however, is significant as it’s clear that the government is trying to calm investors worried about Governor Rajan’s departure from the RBI.”

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Mario Gutierrez on “Colombia and Farc rebels reach agreement on bilateral ceasefire”

“The Colombian government and the FARC rebels say they have agreed to lay down arms as they approach the end of historic peace talks in Havana. The details of the soon to be signed agreement will be made public on Thursday.”

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