Taiwan is adopting the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), a farming method from Madagascar, to address water scarcity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. SRI optimizes plant spacing and water management, significantly increasing rice yields while conserving resources. Despite challenges in adapting SRI to Taiwan's mechanized agriculture, local experts like Dr. Yu-Chuan Chang advocate for its benefits, including improved rice quality and resilience to climate events. The method's adoption is seen as crucial for Taiwan's food security and environmental goals, with potential applications for other crops.

Despite the resurgence of protectionism, particularly from the U.S., globalization remains robust in the healthcare sector. Asian economies, notably Vietnam, continue to enhance trade ties and lower barriers. Samsung Electronics is looking to sell its diagnostic device unit to Nipro, with a focus on China and other Asian markets. Vietnam's economy is highly globalized, trading twice the value of its GDP internationally, with China and the U.S. as main destination markets.

China's auto market reflects broader economic trends, with a notable slowdown in traditional vehicle sales due to trade tensions and consumer concerns. Despite this, China remains the largest auto market globally, crucial for future growth of German, American, Japanese, and Korean automakers. In contrast, sales of electric and hybrid vehicles are surging, indicating a shift towards innovative technologies. Chinese automakers are improving their offerings, suggesting the potential emergence of a global Chinese auto exporter. The slowdown is expected to continue, but China's auto market will remain vital for global automakers.

India's commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2070, as pledged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at COP26, is under scrutiny at COP27. Despite Modi's absence, the focus is on India's progress towards its five-part green pledge. The country's economic survey indicates a growing demand for coal, suggesting an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. While the government has auctioned coal mines and plans to adhere to new emission standards, the majority of the industry has yet to comply. India's renewable energy capacity is currently far from the 2030 target of 500 gigawatts. Small steps by public sector units and increased budget expenditures for renewable energy agencies show progress, but critics argue that afforestation efforts may not be effective due to high population density. India is expected to address these concerns and provide updated green targets at COP27.

Japan-Russia tensions are escalating due to the Ukraine war and longstanding land disputes over the Kuril Islands. Russia's recent ban on non-Russian vessels near the islands and its suspension of peace treaty talks with Japan have heightened tensions. Japan's support for Ukraine, including military aid and financial assistance, has led to retaliatory measures from Moscow. Despite diplomatic efforts, peace treaty negotiations remain stalled, with experts suggesting that Russia's pressure on Japan is unlikely to yield results. The situation has also impacted local life in Hokkaido, with reduced fishing activities and trade.

Despite the approval of the MeFeego Pack abortion pill in Japan, access to reproductive rights remains limited due to restrictive policies, high costs, and societal stigma. Only a small percentage of clinics offer the pill, and spousal consent is still required. Activists and experts criticize the male-dominated political landscape for hindering progress in women's rights. The Japanese government is also criticized for attributing low fertility rates to women, perpetuating social guilt and bias. Efforts to improve access to contraceptives, such as morning-after pills, face similar challenges, with limited availability and societal judgment.

New draft regulations by the European Union aimed at protecting the bloc's economy and preventing sensitive technology from reaching geopolitical rivals are expected to impact Chinese exports and further strain EU-China relations. The regulations include export controls, foreign investment screening in the tech sector, and security for sensitive research. Chinese investment in Europe has declined, and the EU is increasingly cautious about security risks from countries like China and Russia. China has urged the EU to treat its enterprises fairly and be cautious with restrictive policies. The EU's stance is influenced by security concerns and the desire to reduce dependence on third countries, as highlighted by the European Parliament's resolution on China's influence on critical infrastructure.

The COP28 climate conference in Dubai concluded with a deal to reduce fossil fuel use, but faced criticism for its limited scope, particularly the 'phase-down of unabated coal power' and 'phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies.' Despite a push from the G20 for renewable energy and energy efficiency, experts and activists found the language weak. Controversies arose over the involvement of fossil fuel lobbyists and the adequacy of financial commitments from developed nations to support vulnerable countries' transition to renewable energy. The U.S. pledged $24.5 million to a loss and damage fund, while the EU and UAE led efforts to raise over $700 million, falling short of the annual $100 billion promised to assist the Global South.

Azerbaijan's selection as the host for COP29 has sparked controversy due to its heavy reliance on fossil fuels and its human rights record. The appointment of Makhtar Babayev, with ties to the state oil company Socar, as COP29 president has raised concerns about the country's commitment to climate action. Despite adding women to the committee, Azerbaijan's gender gap remains significant. Critics argue that hosting COP29 sends the wrong message, given Azerbaijan's fossil fuel dependency and human rights issues. The conference will focus on climate finance for the Global South, presenting an opportunity for discussions on a just green transition.

China's renewable energy sector has seen significant growth, with record-breaking projects like Goldwind's wind turbine and substantial increases in solar and wind capacity. Despite this, China remains heavily reliant on coal, which accounts for a significant portion of its energy consumption and emissions. The country faces a paradoxical situation where coal is needed to support its green energy transition. Experts suggest that while China is making progress in renewable energy, its continued approval of new coal plants could hinder its climate goals. The article highlights the complex balance China must maintain between economic growth and environmental sustainability.