ASEAN Digital Deal: ASEAN has wrapped talks on the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, with signing set for November and a goal to lift the bloc’s digital economy from a projected $1T by 2030 to as much as $2T. EU Trade Diplomacy: China and the EU are discussing a trade-and-investment consultation mechanism, with Beijing warning it will retaliate if Brussels pushes discriminatory trade tools. India-Myanmar Connectivity: Jaishankar met Myanmar’s president ahead of Modi’s talks, focusing on connectivity, trade, and border security as defense cooperation and economic ties move up the agenda. Trade & Logistics in Malaysia: Malaysia launched the Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Free Trade Zone and Perlis Inland Port, pitching it as a land gateway to help Malaysia-Thailand hit a $30B trade target. South Africa Small Business: Government progress continues on the R500M Spaza Shop Support Fund, aimed at formalising and tightening compliance in the spaza sector. Energy/Industry Push (India): India’s coal ministry roadshow backed incentives for surface coal gasification, targeting major investment and reduced import dependence for key chemicals. US Gas Shock: US gas prices topped $4.50 a gallon, pushing consumers to cut discretionary spending as policymakers struggle to cool prices. EU Sanctions Pressure (Ireland): Ireland’s alumina plant data reportedly shows heavy exports to Russia, complicating Dublin’s case against EU sanctions. Pakistan Women’s Rights: A report flags weak enforcement of women’s economic rights in Pakistan, with low enforcement perceptions and low labor participation.