Arjun Pillai
Desk byline for India and South Asia at Asianomist, covering India and its neighbours.
US Job Growth Misses Forecasts at 29,000, Unemployment Rises to 4.2%
September's nonfarm payrolls fell short of consensus economist estimates, with annual wage increases slowing to 3%, the lowest since 2021, easing inflation concerns.
India's EPFO Campaign Offers Provident Fund Coverage to Past Workers
The Employees’ Enrolment Campaign 2026, active until October 31, allows businesses to regularise provident fund benefits for staff previously outside the formal system.
JTI Philippines backs unified e-cigarette tax to curb smuggling
The proposed P72.9 excise rate from 2027 aims to close loopholes exploited by illicit traders and increase government collections.
Vietnam Tea Exports to US Rise 36% on Higher Prices, Volumes
Vietnam recorded US$7.64 million in tea shipments to the United States during the first eight months of 2026, driven by a 22% rise in volumes and a 12% increase in average prices per ton.
Singapore's August Factory Output Surges 15.4%, Misses Estimates
While Singapore's manufacturing production expanded year-on-year in August, seasonally adjusted monthly output saw a slight contraction, falling short of analyst forecasts.
Philippines to halve retail bond volume as funding options widen
The Bureau of the Treasury plans to raise less than half of last year's amount from its upcoming retail treasury bond sale, considering alternative financing for the remainder of 2026.
South Korea's Early September Exports Jump 78% on Chip Sales
Outbound shipments hit a record $71.4 billion in the first 20 days of September, driven by a 259% surge in semiconductor sales, according to Korea Customs Service data.
SBF Launches Future Ready Business Index, Targets 500 Firms by 2027
The Singapore Business Federation, in partnership with Boston Consulting Group, unveiled a new diagnostic tool today to help companies identify capability gaps and prioritise transformation efforts.
Punjab Employees End Strike After Disciplinary Action Pledge
The decision follows talks between employee unions and Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, who agreed to withdraw show-cause notices issued after a mass leave protest on 27 August.
Manila Small Businesses Cut Staff, Take Loans Over Steep Garbage Fees
New municipal rules implemented in January 2026 have increased waste collection costs by up to 12 times for some enterprises, forcing staff reductions and loan applications to cover rising operating expenses.