Philippines Business Climate: The economy is wobbling into 2H 2026 after weak Q2 growth (2.3%), with economists saying faster infrastructure spending and better budget execution are key to hitting the government’s downgraded target. Trade & Policy: The UK is consulting on deeper trade ties as the Philippines moves toward CPTPP accession, while the Philippines also banned live animal imports from parts of the Middle East after foot-and-mouth disease was detected. Red Tape Reality Check: Nearly half of Philippine businesses still report frustration with registration and closure despite a law meant to cut red tape, citing uneven digital systems and poor data sharing. Kuwait Crackdown: Kuwait published a new decree-law targeting commercial concealment, with prison and fines for unlicensed or hidden economic activity. Iran Pressure Pivot: Trump says the US is “low-keying it” with Iran—keeping economic and naval pressure while holding only “semi-negotiations.” Regional Security Talks: Egypt and Turkey discussed de-escalation and an immediate halt to escalation in the occupied territories. Local Disruptions: In Canada, a Saskatchewan auto parts firm says it lost about $20,000 to a Western Canada credit card scam targeting transport businesses.