China's Jan–Sep GDP up 4.6%, but retail sales rise just 1.1% and investment falls 7.2%
China's National Bureau of Statistics reported real GDP growth of 4.6% year on year for January–September 2026, with 4.5% in the third quarter. Retail sales grew only 1.1%: catering rose 2.4% and alcohol and tobacco 12.6%, while home appliances fell 4.9% and cars 14.9%. Fixed-asset investment dropped 7.2% and property development investment 20.6%.
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According to JETRO, Thailand's FDA says a new notification on packaged-food labelling will soon be published in the Royal Gazette and take effect the next day. It adds sesame to the allergen list and names specific tree nuts, drops the country-of-manufacture requirement for export-only food, and sets conditions for optional digital labels. Products labelled under the current Notification No. 450 may be sold for two years after it takes effect.
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On October 23, Mexico published customs-law amendments to tackle under-declared imports, taking effect on January 1, 2027. Customs may now open an investigation whenever a declared value is below the transaction value of identical or similar goods, and the previous trigger of a gap of 50% or more for precautionary seizure has been removed. Where the gap is 20% or more, the only guarantee accepted to replace a seizure is a cash deposit, which could strain importers' cash flow. Implementing rules naming the target products are due by December 31.
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JETRO reports that Central Market, an upscale Texas supermarket, held its supplier showcase in Dallas on October 8, where four Japanese food makers presented seasonings, yuzu drinks, persimmons, prepared foods and more to buyers. Participants reported positive reactions, including concrete price talks. A buyer said they want products with a story, rarity and premium appeal rather than Japanese foods found everywhere.
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JETRO reports that Thailand's FDA has opened public comment, until November 13, 2026, on revising Notification No. 386 on fresh vegetables and fruit. The rule now covers 48 designated items such as strawberries and apples; the proposal would cover all fresh produce and require manufacturers, importers and sellers to meet its GMP standards. It would take effect one year after publication.
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Indonesia plans to extend the grace period for mandatory halal certification by two years. For imported food and beverages the requirement will now apply from 18 October 2028, and dietary supplements, cosmetics and some household goods get the same extension. Timing still differs by product and business category, so exporters should watch for the amended regulation.
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