Egypt is preparing to transition its food subsidy system from in-kind goods to cash payments, sparking concerns among citizens about potential exclusion from support. The government plans to segment beneficiaries based on economic need, with stricter criteria for eligibility.
Egypt's government is exploring a transition from in-kind subsidies (food, subsidized bread) to direct cash transfers. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly stated the goal is to improve efficiency, ensure fairness, and direct more aid to the neediest segments of society, considering inflation and purchasing power.
Armenia's government approved two subsidy programs to compensate entrepreneurs for logistics costs and customs payments on exports, particularly to the EU. This follows Russia's recent bans on Armenian mineral water and agricultural products, which Prime Minister Pashinyan had pledged to support exporters affected by.
China has rejected an OECD report claiming its firms receive significantly higher government subsidies than international peers, calling the findings "one-sided and arbitrary." The Ministry of Commerce stated the report lacks a unified standard and overlooks China's competitive advantages.
Germany's Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) plans to cut nursing home subsidies and increase contributions for high earners as part of a nursing reform. The draft law aims to save billions by delaying subsidy payments and raising the contribution assessment ceiling for those with higher incomes.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida indicated a potential reduction in government subsidies aimed at capping gasoline prices around 170 yen per liter, stating that the government will "flexibly consider the form, including the unit price."
German electric vehicle subsidies are driving the car market, with EV registrations up 39% in May and reaching a 25% market share. However, experts warn the state funding primarily benefits foreign brands and may only provide a temporary boost.
The Japanese government spent 310 billion yen in April on subsidies to curb prices of gasoline and other fuels. As of the end of last month, the remaining balance in the fund for these subsidies was approximately 670 billion yen, according to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
Hundreds of Polish farmers are on the brink of bankruptcy after the Agricultural Property Agency demanded repayment of huge subsidies. One farmer, Paweł Jaszcz, was accused of fraud and ordered to repay 570,000 PLN, but later won his case in court. An investigation revealed a systemic practice against farmers.
China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning refuted an OECD report claiming Chinese subsidies account for 52% of global industrial subsidies and distort markets. She stated Chinese companies' competitiveness stems from market competition, innovation, and scale, not subsidies, and that China adheres to WTO rules.
An OECD report reveals China provided approximately $108 billion in public funding to its companies in 15 key industrial sectors in 2024. This support, significantly higher than in OECD member countries and other emerging economies, is attributed to China's dominant global market share in sectors like solar panels, shipbuilding, and steel, leading to overcapacity and price depression.
China's Ministry of Finance has allocated 99.9 billion yuan for 2026 childcare subsidies, a 10.6% increase, to encourage births amid a record low birth rate of 5.63 per thousand in 2025. The subsidies, part of a national scheme, support children under three.
OECD report reveals Chinese companies' global market share surge over 20 years is largely due to government subsidies, which are 3-8 times higher than those for competitors in developed nations. This support has driven over 60% of their market share growth, though it hasn't significantly boosted productivity or profitability.
Cyprus, holding the EU Council presidency, is set to reject Germany's demands for significant cuts to the bloc's next seven-year budget. Nicosia plans to unveil new figures by June 10, resisting pressure from wealthier nations to reduce spending on farmers and poorer regions, a move favored by Southern and Eastern European countries.
An OECD report reveals China's 15 key industries received $108 billion in state subsidies in 2024, significantly outcompeting foreign rivals and distorting global markets. These subsidies, including direct payments, tax breaks, and preferential loans, have fueled China's market share growth and led to overcapacity and price suppression.
A new OECD report reveals Chinese companies received 3-8 times more state subsidies than Western firms between 2005-2024. The report warns of market distortions and excess capacity, as the EU investigates unfair trade practices.
China's electric vehicle sales rebounded in May, driven by new models with advanced features and strong performance from brands like Zeekr and Leapmotor. Despite recovery, overcapacity remains a concern.
German automakers are reducing discounts on new electric vehicles, a trend attributed to the recent government subsidy program. The average discount has fallen from 19.5% to 18.6%, making EVs more expensive than comparable combustion engine cars. Meanwhile, the used EV market is rapidly expanding.
EU officials propose expanding the use of the Foreign Subsidies Regulation (FSR) sector-wide and streamlining safeguard measures to counter competitive pressures from subsidized Chinese firms, fearing Europe's industrial base could be severely impacted.
Japan's government will allocate approximately 500 billion yen from reserve funds to subsidize rising electricity and gas costs for households from July to September 2026, aiming to alleviate the burden from soaring crude oil prices due to Middle East tensions. The subsidies are expected to reduce household expenses by about 5,000 yen over three months.
Japanese PM Fumio Kishida announced a ¥500 billion supplementary budget to subsidize electricity and gas costs for July-September, aiming to reduce household burdens by approximately ¥5,000. This enhanced support reflects rising energy prices.
Japan will implement a new round of electricity bill subsidies from July to September to combat rising energy prices and inflation due to the Middle East situation. The government plans to allocate 500 billion yen from the FY2026 reserve fund, providing an estimated 5,000 yen reduction for households over three months.
India's heavy industries ministry plans to significantly increase subsidies for electric two-wheelers under the PM E-Drive scheme to promote clean mobility and reduce oil import dependence. The scheme has already subsidized 2.35 million vehicles, and further funding is being sought despite a lower allocation for FY27.
Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare will expand dental fluoride varnish subsidies for children starting September 1, 2026. The age limit will be extended from 6 years old to the end of August before entering elementary school, ensuring continuous oral care for children.
