<p>Pakistan has created an oppressive surveillance apparatus enabled by Chinese and other foreign technologies, allowing the government to monitor, censor, and intercept the communications of its citizens, Amnesty International said in a report on Tuesday (Sep 9). The entire apparatus, according to the human rights body, is operating without legal oversight or transparency, resulting in grave violations of privacy and freedom for millions of Pakistanis. The technologies enable “constant snooping” on citizens’ communications, severely restricting freedom of expression and access to information.</p><h2>Pakistan citizens spied on: Profiteering out of citizen snooping</h2><p>Pakistan’s Web Monitoring System and Lawful Intercept Management System "operate like watchtowers, constantly snooping on the lives of ordinary citizens…", said Amnesty’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard.</p><p>“This dystopian reality is extremely dangerous because it operates in the shadow… This is nothing short of a vast and profitable economy of oppression,” said Callamard, adding that Pakistani people are paying the highest price.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-creates-new-missile-unit-after-india-standoff-nation-readies-for-future-war-1755173658998/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-creates-new-missile-unit-after-india-standoff-nation-readies-for-future-war-1755173658998/embed</a></p><h2>Pakistan mass surveillance: What Amnesty International investigation found&nbsp;</h2><p>After a year-long investigation in collaboration with multiple media and human rights organisations, Amnesty revealed the unlawful expansion of mass surveillance and censorship in Pakistan. Besides China, the technology comes from companies based in Germany, France, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, and the United States.</p><h2>Key surveillance systems used by Pakistan to monitor its citizens</h2><p>The key surveillance systems include the Web Monitoring System (WMS 2.0), a national firewall that enables censorship and internet blocking. There is also the Lawful Intercept Management System (LIMS), which allows Pakistan’s military and intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), to intercept phone calls, texts, and internet data.</p><h2>Who is giving Pakistan the tech to surveil its own people?</h2><p>The original WMS (referred to as WMS 1.0) used technology from Canadian company Sandvine, now known as AppLogic Networks, which had supplied equipment since 2017 to Pakistani firms such as Inbox Technologies.</p><p>In 2023, WMS 1.0 was replaced by WMS 2.0, which uses advanced technology from China’s Geedge Networks, combined with hardware and software from US-based Niagara Networks and France’s Thales. Amnesty describes Geedge Networks’ technology as a commercialised version of China’s “Great Firewall”, the extensive censorship system now exported globally.</p><p>The LIMS system, meanwhile, uses technology from the German company Utimaco, distributed in Pakistan via UAE-based Datafusion.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-plans-high-tech-radars-to-counter-pakistan-s-drone-tactics-post-operation-sindoor-claims-report-1757309051084">India plans high-tech radars to counter Pakistan’s drone tactics post Operation Sindoor, claims report</a></p><h2>How the web surveillance system is deployed in Pakistan</h2><p>WMS 2.0 system, according to Amnesty, is capable of blocking internet access and specific content with virtually no transparency. It can block VPNs and censor content considered “unlawful” by Pakistani authorities.</p><p>The Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) has mandated that all telecom operators must implement LIMS. This allows the military and ISI to access the private communications and data of millions of citizens.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-are-iranian-sleeper-cells-and-why-is-the-fbi-on-high-alert-1750577232516">Explained: What are Iranian sleeper cells—and why is the FBI on high alert?</a></p><h2>What Pakistani authorities can see or hear through snooping on their citizens</h2><p>According to the Amnesty report, more than four million people can be subjected to indiscriminate surveillance at any time through LIMS.</p><p>Authorities can view phone locations, calls, texts, and — in the case of HTTP traffic — full website content. For HTTPS traffic, they can access metadata such as which website was visited, but not the encrypted content.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-tech-firms-keep-employees-under-extreme-surveillance-391341/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-tech-firms-keep-employees-under-extreme-surveillance-391341/embed</a></p><h2>No safeguards in Pakistan against mass surveillance</h2><p>Pakistanis are being subjected to this surveillance within a legal vacuum. Laws such as the Fair Trial Act, which require warrants for surveillance, are often ignored.</p><p>A journalist interviewed by Amnesty revealed he was under surveillance after exposing government corruption: “Everything is monitored, be it email or calls. After the story, anyone I would speak to, even on WhatsApp, would come under scrutiny.” He added: “I go months without speaking to my family for fear they will be targeted.”</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-plans-all-seeing-surveillance-camera-network-on-moon-to-secure-lunar-base-696804">China plans ‘all-seeing’ surveillance camera network on moon to secure its lunar base</a></p><h2>Pakistanis are funding their own surveillance</h2><p>A startling finding in the report is that these surveillance systems are funded with public money.</p><p>Amnesty’s technologist Jurre van Bergen stated that both LIMS and WMS 2.0 are funded by taxpayer money, enabled by foreign technology, and used to silence dissent.</p><p>Calling LIMS “a tool of unlawful and indiscriminate surveillance in practice”, van Bergen said, “The surveillance is causing severe human rights harms against the Pakistani people.”<br>&nbsp;</p>

Amnesty International investigation has revealed the extent of Pakistan’s mass surveillance system, which uses Chinese and other foreign tech to monitor, censor, and intercept citizens’ communications without oversight. And the odd thing is, Pakistanis are paying for it



Pakistan has created an oppressive surveillance apparatus enabled by Chinese and other foreign technologies, allowing the government to monitor, censor, and intercept the communications of its citizens, Amnesty International said in a report on Tuesday (Sep 9). The entire apparatus, according to the human rights body, is operating without legal oversight or transparency, resulting in grave violations of privacy and freedom for millions of Pakistanis. The technologies enable “constant snooping” on citizens’ communications, severely restricting freedom of expression and access to information. Pakistan citizens spied on: Profiteering out of citizen snooping Pakistan’s Web Monitoring System and Lawful Intercept Management System "operate like watchtowers, constantly snooping on the lives of ordinary citizens…", said Amnesty’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard. “This dystopian reality is extremely dangerous because it operates in the shadow… This is nothing short of a vast and profitable economy of oppression,” said Callamard, adding that Pakistani people are paying the highest price. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-creates-new-missile-unit-after-india-standoff-nation-readies-for-future-war-1755173658998/embed Pakistan mass surveillance: What Amnesty International investigation found After a year-long investigation in collaboration with multiple media and human rights organisations, Amnesty revealed the unlawful expansion of mass surveillance and censorship in Pakistan. Besides China, the technology comes from companies based in Germany, France, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, and the United States. Key surveillance systems used by Pakistan to monitor its citizens The key surveillance systems include the Web Monitoring System (WMS 2.0), a national firewall that enables censorship and internet blocking. There is also the Lawful Intercept Management System (LIMS), which allows Pakistan’s military and intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), to intercept phone calls, texts, and internet data. Who is giving Pakistan the tech to surveil its own people? The original WMS (referred to as WMS 1.0) used technology from Canadian company Sandvine, now known as AppLogic Networks, which had supplied equipment since 2017 to Pakistani firms such as Inbox Technologies. In 2023, WMS 1.0 was replaced by WMS 2.0, which uses advanced technology from China’s Geedge Networks, combined with hardware and software from US-based Niagara Networks and France’s Thales. Amnesty describes Geedge Networks’ technology as a commercialised version of China’s “Great Firewall”, the extensive censorship system now exported globally. The LIMS system, meanwhile, uses technology from the German company Utimaco, distributed in Pakistan via UAE-based Datafusion. Also read: India plans high-tech radars to counter Pakistan’s drone tactics post Operation Sindoor, claims report How the web surveillance system is deployed in Pakistan WMS 2.0 system, according to Amnesty, is capable of blocking internet access and specific content with virtually no transparency. It can block VPNs and censor content considered “unlawful” by Pakistani authorities. The Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) has mandated that all telecom operators must implement LIMS. This allows the military and ISI to access the private communications and data of millions of citizens. Also read: Explained: What are Iranian sleeper cells—and why is the FBI on high alert? What Pakistani authorities can see or hear through snooping on their citizens According to the Amnesty report, more than four million people can be subjected to indiscriminate surveillance at any time through LIMS. Authorities can view phone locations, calls, texts, and — in the case of HTTP traffic — full website content. For HTTPS traffic, they can access metadata such as which website was visited, but not the encrypted content. https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-tech-firms-keep-employees-under-extreme-surveillance-391341/embed No safeguards in Pakistan against mass surveillance Pakistanis are being subjected to this surveillance within a legal vacuum. Laws such as the Fair Trial Act, which require warrants for surveillance, are often ignored. A journalist interviewed by Amnesty revealed he was under surveillance after exposing government corruption: “Everything is monitored, be it email or calls. After the story, anyone I would speak to, even on WhatsApp, would come under scrutiny.” He added: “I go months without speaking to my family for fear they will be targeted.” Also read: China plans ‘all-seeing’ surveillance camera network on moon to secure its lunar base Pakistanis are funding their own surveillance A startling finding in the report is that these surveillance systems are funded with public money. Amnesty’s technologist Jurre van Bergen stated that both LIMS and WMS 2.0 are funded by taxpayer money, enabled by foreign technology, and used to silence dissent. Calling LIMS “a tool of unlawful and indiscriminate surveillance in practice”, van Bergen said, “The surveillance is causing severe human rights harms against the Pakistani people.”

<p>Amnesty International investigation has revealed the extent of Pakistan’s mass surveillance system, which uses Chinese and other foreign tech to monitor, censor, and intercept citizens’ communications without oversight. And the odd thing is, Pakistanis are paying for it</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

PAKISTAN SPYING on its own citizens using Chinese technology, claims Amnesty International investigation report

<p>When I visited Nepal a few years ago, one thing struck me: signboards asking people not to take TikTok videos at several places in the capital, Kathmandu. I also saw youth making videos on their mobile phones at places where it was allowed. That contrast between a digital-native generation and the powers that curb their freedoms was in sharp focus this week, when police fired on and killed at least 19 youths—some reportedly as young as 14—protesting against a ban on social media. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has resigned, after some members of his cabinet stepped down. The protests, led mainly by Generation Z, evoked déjà vu of similar struggles where the ‘TikTok generation’ was either the leader or at the forefront. From August’s protests in Indonesia that led to the removal of the labour minister, to demonstrations in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the youth are expressing their frustration at political establishments out of touch with their aspirations and realities. From South Asia to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the West, Gen Z is fed up with being ruled by septuagenarians and octogenarians who do not ‘get them’. Once dismissed as a generation not clued in to realities, is Gen Z now emerging as one of the most politically active youth cohorts in recent years?</p><h2>Generation Z is not just passively scrolling through social media</h2><p>From Sri Lanka to South Africa, and from Myanmar to Bangladesh, Gen Z—generally those born between 1997 and 2012—is not just passively scrolling through social media.&nbsp;</p><p>They are actively mobilising to challenge corruption, injustice, and entrenched political hierarchies that make reforms far removed from realities on the ground, even as much of the TikTok generation remains frustrated and unemployed.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-gen-z-protests-government-lifts-social-media-ban-following-deadly-protests-1757394334781/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-gen-z-protests-government-lifts-social-media-ban-following-deadly-protests-1757394334781/embed</a></p><h2>Nepal’s student revolt: Justice or bust</h2><p>The current protest in Nepal, ostensibly sparked by a social media ban, is an eruption of issues brewing for years. In 2024, student-led protests captivated the Himalayan nation over the so-called “transitional justice” bill. The bill was widely seen as a cover-up for past human rights violations and rampant government corruption of the ruling elite. University students took to the streets of Kathmandu and elsewhere, chanting slogans like “Arrest murderers!” The government’s response was harsh, as it is now, yet the protests forced the administration to reckon with youth discontent.</p><p>Nepal’s corruption ranking—110th out of 180 countries according to Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index 2023—paints a grim backdrop where government impunity is a daily reality for Nepalis. Gen Z’s vocal opposition is a direct challenge to a system that has long operated without being questioned, demanding accountability where older generations have failed. The social media ban, targeting only those platforms not registered within the country (which is why TikTok is not officially banned), is a culmination of this crackdown. The government appears unable to handle a generation that communicates primarily via social media.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-appoints-new-finance-minister-following-violent-protests-1757330613894">Indonesia appoints new finance minister following violent protests</a></p><h2>Indonesia’s awakening led by Gen Z</h2><p>Thousands of miles away, in Indonesia, Gen Z took to the streets in August 2025 alongside workers and women to protest a range of issues, including corruption, job insecurity, and rising living costs. The protests were marked by significant youth participation and opposition to government policies perceived as favouring elites. The protests led to the resignation of the labour minister, Ida Fauziyah, following public pressure and allegations of mismanagement.</p><p>Gen Z had already made its presence felt during the 2024 presidential election, with an unprecedented 54 per cent voter turnout among 18-29-year-olds, up from 41 per cent in 2019. The youth vote was pivotal in reshaping the political narrative, emphasising demands for better governance, employment opportunities, and climate action.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indonesia-in-chaos-as-anti-govt-protest-intensifies-president-cancels-china-visit-protesters-loot-minister-s-house-what-s-happening-1756628143516">Indonesia in chaos as anti-govt protest intensifies: President cancels China visit, protesters loot minister’s house - What's happening</a></p><h2>Gen Z is emerging as a global force, armed with mobile phones&nbsp;</h2><p>Armed with mobile phones and social media access, Gen Z is leading or catalysing political shifts through digital activism, from the US to South Africa and Europe. The “TikTok generation” channels the power of viral videos and online campaigns to spotlight climate change, economic inequality, and social injustice. Social media allows them to bypass traditional, often state-controlled, media outlets.</p><p>They are also making their voices heard at the ballot box. In the 2024 US elections, 61 per cent of 18-24-year-olds backed candidates pushing progressive agendas. In India, more than 20 million first-time voters participated in the 2024 general election. In South Africa, the youth vote contributed to the ruling African National Congress losing its majority in several municipalities for the first time in decades.</p><h2>Why governments are afraid of social media</h2><p>If you assume Gen Z is scrolling social media only for cute cat videos and fashion tips, think again. Many are using TikTok videos, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels to call out corruption, unemployment, inequality, and government inaction on climate change. These videos garner millions of views, mobilising unprecedented numbers of young people. According to a report by McKinsey &amp; Company, Gen Z’s global consumer power is projected to reach $13 trillion by 2030. This economic clout adds pressure on governments and corporations to heed their voices. Perhaps this is why governments like Nepal’s made ill-informed decisions to ban social media platforms, and are now dealing with the consequences.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Often dismissed as non-serious, Gen Z is leading global political change through digital activism, from Nepal to Indonesia and beyond. Fueled by frustration with ageing leaders, they’re protesting corruption, injustice, and inequality, using social media as a powerful tool 



When I visited Nepal a few years ago, one thing struck me: signboards asking people not to take TikTok videos at several places in the capital, Kathmandu. I also saw youth making videos on their mobile phones at places where it was allowed. That contrast between a digital-native generation and the powers that curb their freedoms was in sharp focus this week, when police fired on and killed at least 19 youths—some reportedly as young as 14—protesting against a ban on social media. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has resigned, after some members of his cabinet stepped down. The protests, led mainly by Generation Z, evoked déjà vu of similar struggles where the ‘TikTok generation’ was either the leader or at the forefront. From August’s protests in Indonesia that led to the removal of the labour minister, to demonstrations in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the youth are expressing their frustration at political establishments out of touch with their aspirations and realities. From South Asia to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the West, Gen Z is fed up with being ruled by septuagenarians and octogenarians who do not ‘get them’. Once dismissed as a generation not clued in to realities, is Gen Z now emerging as one of the most politically active youth cohorts in recent years? Generation Z is not just passively scrolling through social media From Sri Lanka to South Africa, and from Myanmar to Bangladesh, Gen Z—generally those born between 1997 and 2012—is not just passively scrolling through social media. They are actively mobilising to challenge corruption, injustice, and entrenched political hierarchies that make reforms far removed from realities on the ground, even as much of the TikTok generation remains frustrated and unemployed. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-gen-z-protests-government-lifts-social-media-ban-following-deadly-protests-1757394334781/embed Nepal’s student revolt: Justice or bust The current protest in Nepal, ostensibly sparked by a social media ban, is an eruption of issues brewing for years. In 2024, student-led protests captivated the Himalayan nation over the so-called “transitional justice” bill. The bill was widely seen as a cover-up for past human rights violations and rampant government corruption of the ruling elite. University students took to the streets of Kathmandu and elsewhere, chanting slogans like “Arrest murderers!” The government’s response was harsh, as it is now, yet the protests forced the administration to reckon with youth discontent. Nepal’s corruption ranking—110th out of 180 countries according to Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index 2023—paints a grim backdrop where government impunity is a daily reality for Nepalis. Gen Z’s vocal opposition is a direct challenge to a system that has long operated without being questioned, demanding accountability where older generations have failed. The social media ban, targeting only those platforms not registered within the country (which is why TikTok is not officially banned), is a culmination of this crackdown. The government appears unable to handle a generation that communicates primarily via social media. Also read: Indonesia appoints new finance minister following violent protests Indonesia’s awakening led by Gen Z Thousands of miles away, in Indonesia, Gen Z took to the streets in August 2025 alongside workers and women to protest a range of issues, including corruption, job insecurity, and rising living costs. The protests were marked by significant youth participation and opposition to government policies perceived as favouring elites. The protests led to the resignation of the labour minister, Ida Fauziyah, following public pressure and allegations of mismanagement. Gen Z had already made its presence felt during the 2024 presidential election, with an unprecedented 54 per cent voter turnout among 18-29-year-olds, up from 41 per cent in 2019. The youth vote was pivotal in reshaping the political narrative, emphasising demands for better governance, employment opportunities, and climate action. Also read: Indonesia in chaos as anti-govt protest intensifies: President cancels China visit, protesters loot minister’s house - What's happening Gen Z is emerging as a global force, armed with mobile phones Armed with mobile phones and social media access, Gen Z is leading or catalysing political shifts through digital activism, from the US to South Africa and Europe. The “TikTok generation” channels the power of viral videos and online campaigns to spotlight climate change, economic inequality, and social injustice. Social media allows them to bypass traditional, often state-controlled, media outlets. They are also making their voices heard at the ballot box. In the 2024 US elections, 61 per cent of 18-24-year-olds backed candidates pushing progressive agendas. In India, more than 20 million first-time voters participated in the 2024 general election. In South Africa, the youth vote contributed to the ruling African National Congress losing its majority in several municipalities for the first time in decades. Why governments are afraid of social media If you assume Gen Z is scrolling social media only for cute cat videos and fashion tips, think again. Many are using TikTok videos, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels to call out corruption, unemployment, inequality, and government inaction on climate change. These videos garner millions of views, mobilising unprecedented numbers of young people. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, Gen Z’s global consumer power is projected to reach $13 trillion by 2030. This economic clout adds pressure on governments and corporations to heed their voices. Perhaps this is why governments like Nepal’s made ill-informed decisions to ban social media platforms, and are now dealing with the consequences.

<p>Often dismissed as non-serious, Gen Z is leading global political change through digital activism, from Nepal to Indonesia and beyond. Fueled by frustration with ageing leaders, they’re protesting corruption, injustice, and inequality, using social media as a powerful tool&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

When Gen Z protests, heads roll: From Nepal to Indonesia and beyond, TikTok generation leads change in politics dominated by the old and senile

<p>India, Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates are among the countries affected by recent subsea cable disruptions in the Red Sea, which caused significant internet outages across Asia and the Middle East. Service providers like Etisalat and Du were impacted, and Microsoft reported increased latency for users of its Azure cloud services in the Middle East. Given the location and timing of the disruptions, some observers have questioned whether the Houthi rebels may be involved, particularly in the broader context of the Israel–Hamas war in the region. However, no conclusive evidence has emerged to support this theory. Why are the Red Sea cables crucial for global communications? Could this be another facet of the war? Here is what you need to know:&nbsp;</p><h2>How the Red Sea cable cuts are being felt</h2><p>The undersea cables were severed near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday (Sep 6). Following the disruption, internet traffic has been rerouted through alternative cables and satellite systems, resulting in slower connectivity and delayed response times, especially due to the longer and more congested routes now being used. Repairs to deep-sea cables can take several weeks, given the logistical and technical complexity.&nbsp;</p><p>Microsoft said the fibre cable cuts can take time to repair, adding it would ‘continuously monitor, rebalance, and optimise routing to reduce customer impact.’</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-indian-navy-chief-admiral-r-hari-kumar-terms-red-sea-situation-fragile-683080">Indian Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar terms Red Sea situation fragile</a></p><h2>Previous Houthi attacks on maritime assets on Red Sea</h2><p>In March 2024, a Houthi missile strike sank the Belize-registered ship Rubymar. Its anchor dragged along the seabed and damaged several subsea cables, including Seacom, AAE-1, and EIG. These cables collectively handled around 25 per cent of regional internet traffic.</p><p>While the Houthis have demonstrated the capability to damage subsea infrastructure, there is currently no official attribution linking them to this weekend's disruptions. The group has denied targeting undersea cables in past incidents, including similar cases in February and March 2024.</p><p>Amid the ongoing Israel–Hamas war, the Houthis have conducted numerous attacks on Red Sea shipping in order to pressure Israel and its Western allies. This context has fuelled speculation about their possible involvement in the recent cable cuts, but no clear evidence has emerged.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rising-red-sea-tensions-and-its-potential-impact-on-indias-export-and-oil-trade-681608">Rising Red Sea tensions and its potential impact on India's export and oil trade</a></p><h2>Why the Red Sea internet cables are critical for global communications</h2><p>The Red Sea is a strategic chokepoint for global internet traffic, hosting a cluster of undersea cables linking Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. These cables are essential for cloud computing, high-speed financial transactions, and international communications.</p><p>The region around Red Sea currently hosts 14 active subsea cables, with six more under construction. Over 90 per cent of data traffic between Asia and Europe travels through this corridor.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-houthi-conflict-houthis-claim-to-strike-israeli-linked-tanker-in-red-sea-1757146244157/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-houthi-conflict-houthis-claim-to-strike-israeli-linked-tanker-in-red-sea-1757146244157/embed</a></p><h2>Two key cables affected in recent incidents&nbsp;</h2><p>The South East Asia–Middle East–Western Europe 4 (SMW4) operated by Tata Communications connects Southeast Asia to Europe via the Middle East. The India–Middle East–Western Europe (IMEWE) cable, managed by a consortium led by Alcatel-Lucent, links India to Europe through the Middle East. These high-capacity, low-latency cables are critical to maintaining stable global internet connectivity. Disruptions in this region ripple across multiple continents</p><h2>High-tech communications affected in a fragile world</h2><p>The weekend sea cable cuts raised suspicion against the Houthis, though no direct evidence has been presented. This means this could very well have been an accident. But regardless of the cause, the disruption highlights the fragility of the global internet infrastructure and the strategic importance of the Red Sea, in a fragile world hit by conflicts.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

This weekend's subsea internet cable disruptions in the Red Sea cut connectivity across Asia and the Middle East. While suspicion surrounds Houthi involvement amid the Israel–Hamas conflict, no evidence confirms sabotage. Can internet be another front for war?



India, Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates are among the countries affected by recent subsea cable disruptions in the Red Sea, which caused significant internet outages across Asia and the Middle East. Service providers like Etisalat and Du were impacted, and Microsoft reported increased latency for users of its Azure cloud services in the Middle East. Given the location and timing of the disruptions, some observers have questioned whether the Houthi rebels may be involved, particularly in the broader context of the Israel–Hamas war in the region. However, no conclusive evidence has emerged to support this theory. Why are the Red Sea cables crucial for global communications? Could this be another facet of the war? Here is what you need to know: How the Red Sea cable cuts are being felt The undersea cables were severed near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday (Sep 6). Following the disruption, internet traffic has been rerouted through alternative cables and satellite systems, resulting in slower connectivity and delayed response times, especially due to the longer and more congested routes now being used. Repairs to deep-sea cables can take several weeks, given the logistical and technical complexity. Microsoft said the fibre cable cuts can take time to repair, adding it would ‘continuously monitor, rebalance, and optimise routing to reduce customer impact.’ Also read: Indian Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar terms Red Sea situation fragile Previous Houthi attacks on maritime assets on Red Sea In March 2024, a Houthi missile strike sank the Belize-registered ship Rubymar. Its anchor dragged along the seabed and damaged several subsea cables, including Seacom, AAE-1, and EIG. These cables collectively handled around 25 per cent of regional internet traffic. While the Houthis have demonstrated the capability to damage subsea infrastructure, there is currently no official attribution linking them to this weekend's disruptions. The group has denied targeting undersea cables in past incidents, including similar cases in February and March 2024. Amid the ongoing Israel–Hamas war, the Houthis have conducted numerous attacks on Red Sea shipping in order to pressure Israel and its Western allies. This context has fuelled speculation about their possible involvement in the recent cable cuts, but no clear evidence has emerged. Also read: Rising Red Sea tensions and its potential impact on India's export and oil trade Why the Red Sea internet cables are critical for global communications The Red Sea is a strategic chokepoint for global internet traffic, hosting a cluster of undersea cables linking Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. These cables are essential for cloud computing, high-speed financial transactions, and international communications. The region around Red Sea currently hosts 14 active subsea cables, with six more under construction. Over 90 per cent of data traffic between Asia and Europe travels through this corridor. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-houthi-conflict-houthis-claim-to-strike-israeli-linked-tanker-in-red-sea-1757146244157/embed Two key cables affected in recent incidents The South East Asia–Middle East–Western Europe 4 (SMW4) operated by Tata Communications connects Southeast Asia to Europe via the Middle East. The India–Middle East–Western Europe (IMEWE) cable, managed by a consortium led by Alcatel-Lucent, links India to Europe through the Middle East. These high-capacity, low-latency cables are critical to maintaining stable global internet connectivity. Disruptions in this region ripple across multiple continents High-tech communications affected in a fragile world The weekend sea cable cuts raised suspicion against the Houthis, though no direct evidence has been presented. This means this could very well have been an accident. But regardless of the cause, the disruption highlights the fragility of the global internet infrastructure and the strategic importance of the Red Sea, in a fragile world hit by conflicts.

<p>This weekend's subsea internet cable disruptions in the Red Sea cut connectivity across Asia and the Middle East. While suspicion surrounds Houthi involvement amid the Israel–Hamas conflict, no evidence confirms sabotage. Can internet be another front for war?</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Subsea cable cuts in the Red Sea hit internet in India, Middle East: Could this be another front in the Israel–Hamas war?

<p>The European Commission has fined Google €2.95 billion (around $3.5 billion) for violating EU antitrust rules in the advertising technology (adtech) sector, in the fourth major penalty of the tech giant in recent years. What is different this time? Will this lead to more regulatory pressure on the Big Tech giant?</p><h2>The EU ruling: what happened?</h2><p>In the ruling on Friday (Sep 5), Google was found to have abused its dominance since 2014 by favouring its own ad exchange, known as 'AdX', and ad-buying practices called “self-preferencing” that disadvantaged competitors, advertisers, and publishers. It asked Google to submit a compliance plan within 60 days. If the plan is found inadequate, the European Commission could impose 'structural remedies', such as divesting parts of its adtech business.</p><p>Google has vowed to appeal, calling the decision “wrong” and warning that the required changes could harm European businesses.</p><h2>EU is leading the way in antitrust actions against Google</h2><p>This latest antitrust fine is part of a series of penalties imposed on Google by the European Union. It was fined €2.42 billion in 2017 for favouring its own price comparison service. In 2018, the EU fined Google €4.34 billion over Android-related abuses. This fine remains the largest penalty on Google to date. In 2019, the EU fined Google €1.49 billion for restrictive advertising contract clauses, but this was annulled by the General Court in 2024 following Google’s appeal.</p><p>Overall, EU antitrust fines on Google add up to around €8.7 billion.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-fined-381-mn-for-predetatory-gmail-advertising-but-it-s-like-toll-tax-for-alphabet-less-than-0-25-pc-of-its-global-revenue-google-monopoly-1756964314254">Google fined $381 mn for predatory Gmail advertising, but it's like toll tax for Alphabet, less than 0.25 pc of its global revenue</a></p><h2>How Google faces antitrust fines in the US, but Trump favours it</h2><p>Antitrust scrutiny of Google is also intensifying in the United States, its home country. In April 2025, a federal judge ruled that Google holds illegal monopolies in online advertising markets, specifically in publisher ad servers and ad exchanges. Remedy hearings are scheduled.</p><p>Regarding search dominance, US courts have also found Google monopolistic and are proceeding with remedies discussions.</p><p>Google’s EU fine, while substantial, is modest compared to its global advertising revenue, which was approximately $264.6 billion in 2024, &nbsp;and nearly 75 per cent of its total income. US President Donald Trump criticised the fine as “unfair” and “discriminatory,” threatening a Section 301 trade investigation that could lead to new US tariffs on European goods.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-fines-google-200000000000000000000000000000000-772626/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-fines-google-200000000000000000000000000000000-772626/embed</a></p><h2>Clamour for Google breakup is growing</h2><p>Critics argue that fines alone are insufficient to curb Google’s entrenched dominance, especially in the €120 billion European ad tech market. They call for a breakup of Google’s business units to restore competition.</p><p>The latest EU fine signals a significant shift in antitrust enforcement, moving beyond monetary penalties and towards the possibility of ‘structural remedies’. This could involve forced divestment of Google subsidiary businesses to dismantle its monopoly.</p><h2>How Google dominates the entire digital advertising supply chain</h2><p>Google is the most dominant player in the adtech ecosystem, spanning ad exchanges, ad servers, and demand-side platforms. This has led to allegations of ‘self-preferencing’, where Google favours its own services, increasing costs for advertisers and limiting options for publishers.</p><p>The EU ruling targets this vertical integration directly.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/google-faces-eu-court-blow-in-5-billion-android-antitrust-case-details-here-1750392104721">Google faces EU court blow in $5 billion Android antitrust case: Details here</a></p><h2>Google breakup next? How will it help advertisers?</h2><p>If structural remedies are enforced, parts of Google’s adtech infrastructure could be broken up in the EU, potentially increasing competition and innovation.</p><p>This EU ruling aligns with a global trend towards restructuring Big Tech business models to combat monopolies.</p><p>But is breaking up Google’s adtech business a good idea? What could competition mean for advertisers? &nbsp;For advertisers and publishers, greater competition could lead to fairer prices, improved transparency, and better tools to monetise content, ultimately benefiting consumers through increased innovation and choice</p>

The EU's €2.95 billion fine on Google for abusing dominance in adtech by favouring its own services is more than just another monetary penalty. It could pave the way for the breakup of its ad business in European Union

The European Commission has fined Google €2.95 billion (around $3.5 billion) for violating EU antitrust rules in the advertising technology (adtech) sector, in the fourth major penalty of the tech giant in recent years. What is different this time? Will this lead to more regulatory pressure on the Big Tech giant? The EU ruling: what happened? In the ruling on Friday (Sep 5), Google was found to have abused its dominance since 2014 by favouring its own ad exchange, known as 'AdX', and ad-buying practices called “self-preferencing” that disadvantaged competitors, advertisers, and publishers. It asked Google to submit a compliance plan within 60 days. If the plan is found inadequate, the European Commission could impose 'structural remedies', such as divesting parts of its adtech business. Google has vowed to appeal, calling the decision “wrong” and warning that the required changes could harm European businesses. EU is leading the way in antitrust actions against Google This latest antitrust fine is part of a series of penalties imposed on Google by the European Union. It was fined €2.42 billion in 2017 for favouring its own price comparison service. In 2018, the EU fined Google €4.34 billion over Android-related abuses. This fine remains the largest penalty on Google to date. In 2019, the EU fined Google €1.49 billion for restrictive advertising contract clauses, but this was annulled by the General Court in 2024 following Google’s appeal. Overall, EU antitrust fines on Google add up to around €8.7 billion. Also read: Google fined $381 mn for predatory Gmail advertising, but it's like toll tax for Alphabet, less than 0.25 pc of its global revenue How Google faces antitrust fines in the US, but Trump favours it Antitrust scrutiny of Google is also intensifying in the United States, its home country. In April 2025, a federal judge ruled that Google holds illegal monopolies in online advertising markets, specifically in publisher ad servers and ad exchanges. Remedy hearings are scheduled. Regarding search dominance, US courts have also found Google monopolistic and are proceeding with remedies discussions. Google’s EU fine, while substantial, is modest compared to its global advertising revenue, which was approximately $264.6 billion in 2024, and nearly 75 per cent of its total income. US President Donald Trump criticised the fine as “unfair” and “discriminatory,” threatening a Section 301 trade investigation that could lead to new US tariffs on European goods. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-fines-google-200000000000000000000000000000000-772626/embed Clamour for Google breakup is growing Critics argue that fines alone are insufficient to curb Google’s entrenched dominance, especially in the €120 billion European ad tech market. They call for a breakup of Google’s business units to restore competition. The latest EU fine signals a significant shift in antitrust enforcement, moving beyond monetary penalties and towards the possibility of ‘structural remedies’. This could involve forced divestment of Google subsidiary businesses to dismantle its monopoly. How Google dominates the entire digital advertising supply chain Google is the most dominant player in the adtech ecosystem, spanning ad exchanges, ad servers, and demand-side platforms. This has led to allegations of ‘self-preferencing’, where Google favours its own services, increasing costs for advertisers and limiting options for publishers. The EU ruling targets this vertical integration directly. Also read: Google faces EU court blow in $5 billion Android antitrust case: Details here Google breakup next? How will it help advertisers? If structural remedies are enforced, parts of Google’s adtech infrastructure could be broken up in the EU, potentially increasing competition and innovation. This EU ruling aligns with a global trend towards restructuring Big Tech business models to combat monopolies. But is breaking up Google’s adtech business a good idea? What could competition mean for advertisers? For advertisers and publishers, greater competition could lead to fairer prices, improved transparency, and better tools to monetise content, ultimately benefiting consumers through increased innovation and choice

<p>The EU's €2.95 billion fine on Google for abusing dominance in adtech by favouring its own services is more than just another monetary penalty. It could pave the way for the breakup of its ad business in European Union</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Google fined $3.5 billion by EU, but will it lead to breakup of the advertising monopoly of tech giant?

<p>The US national debt is now at a record $37 trillion, the highest in the world. Despite this colossal burden, the United States remains the largest global economy. How is this possible? The answer lies in a combination of US economic growth, the unique role of the US dollar in global financial system, and the structure of its debt. But how long can this party last? Let's find out.</p><h2>Why the US owes more than it earns: Where does debt come from?</h2><p>The US debt-to-GDP ratio has climbed above 119 per cent, meaning the country owes more than its entire annual economic output. By mid-2025, the US GDP stood at around $30.3 trillion. Debt is increasing rapidly, meanwhile—by about $1 trillion every five months—making consistent economic growth essential to managing this load.</p><p>Of the $37 trillion, nearly $24.4 trillion is public debt owed to private investors, mutual funds, and foreign governments. Approximately $7.3 trillion consists of intragovernmental holdings, such as Social Security and Medicare trust funds. The Federal Reserve, the US central bank, holds about $4.6 trillion in US Treasuries, part of its monetary policy operations.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-fed-rate-demand-trump-urges-powell-to-cut-rates-amid-falling-prices-9068849/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-fed-rate-demand-trump-urges-powell-to-cut-rates-amid-falling-prices-9068849/embed</a></p><h2>Who are the main foreign holders of US debt?</h2><p>Japan is the largest foreign creditor with roughly $1.1 trillion in US debt holdings, followed by the UK ($809 billion), China ($756 billion), the Cayman Islands ($455 billion), and Canada ($426 billion). These countries invest heavily in US debt because the US dollar is the world’s primary reserve currency, and US Treasury securities are considered among the safest and most stable investments worldwide.</p><h2>The rising interest costs challenge the US budget</h2><p>Interest payments on the debt are increasingly straining the US budget. In fiscal year 2024, net interest costs reached nearly $880 billion—more than the government spends on Medicare or defence. Average interest rates on government borrowing have more than doubled in recent years, rising from around 1.6 per cent in 2022 to 3.35 per cent by mid-2025. This rise has prompted Moody’s to downgrade the US credit outlook, citing growing deficits and debt.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-fed-interference-poses-serious-danger-to-world-economy-warns-ecb-chief-christine-lagarde-1756735770893">Trump’s Fed interference poses ‘serious danger’ to world economy, warns ECB chief Christine Lagarde</a></p><h2>Why the US economy remains dominant</h2><p>The global demand for US dollars and Treasury securities underpins America’s economic strength in spite of its public debt. The dollar’s role as the primary reserve currency allows the US government to borrow at relatively low interest rates and continuously re-finance its debt. Investors worldwide see US debt as a safe, liquid asset.</p><p>US GDP growth has been steady, helping to prevent the debt-to-GDP ratio from worsening despite rising debt. Much of the public debt is also held domestically—in pension funds, mutual funds, and financial institutions—reducing reliance on foreign creditors.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-bring-america-back-to-brink-of-economic-catastrophe-trump-administration-urges-supreme-court-to-allow-tariff-imposition-1756992990632">'Will bring America back to brink of economic catastrophe’: Trump administration urges Supreme Court to allow tariff imposition</a></p><h2>US economic resilience amid challenges: Risks and projections&nbsp;</h2><p>The US economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience, successfully navigating the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic with effective fiscal and monetary stimulus measures that stabilised markets and restored growth.</p><p>However, risks remain. The Congressional Budget Office projects that public debt could rise from 99 per cent of GDP in 2024 to 116 per cent by 2034, potentially reaching 172 per cent by 2054 if current trends continue. Some forecasts suggest debt could hit 130 per cent of GDP over the next decade without significant policy reforms.</p><p>Consultancy firm EY warns that unchecked debt growth could reduce economic output by $340 billion by 2035, lead to 1.2 million job losses, cut private investment by nearly 14 per cent, and suppress wages.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-economy-staring-at-recession-global-investment-bank-puts-risk-at-93-here-s-why-1756971115068">US economy staring at recession? Global investment bank puts risk at 93%. Here's why</a></p><h2>Can the US sustain its debt?</h2><p>A sudden collapse under the debt burden is unlikely, but concerns persist. The US financial system remains one of the most credible globally, but credit rating agencies and investors are closely monitoring the country’s fiscal health. The critical question is whether the US government can manage its debt without undermining its economic leadership.</p><p>For now, America’s unique position as the issuer of the world’s primary reserve currency, its ongoing economic growth, and deep financial markets allow it to maintain global dominance. However, the future depends on prudent fiscal management to prevent the debt from becoming a significant drag on economic progress.</p>

The US holds $37 trillion in national debt, the highest globally, yet remains the world's largest economy. But just how? The strong trust in and demand for the US dollar, steady GDP growth and investor trust in Treasury securities are the answers. How long can this go on?



The US national debt is now at a record $37 trillion, the highest in the world. Despite this colossal burden, the United States remains the largest global economy. How is this possible? The answer lies in a combination of US economic growth, the unique role of the US dollar in global financial system, and the structure of its debt. But how long can this party last? Let's find out. Why the US owes more than it earns: Where does debt come from? The US debt-to-GDP ratio has climbed above 119 per cent, meaning the country owes more than its entire annual economic output. By mid-2025, the US GDP stood at around $30.3 trillion. Debt is increasing rapidly, meanwhile—by about $1 trillion every five months—making consistent economic growth essential to managing this load. Of the $37 trillion, nearly $24.4 trillion is public debt owed to private investors, mutual funds, and foreign governments. Approximately $7.3 trillion consists of intragovernmental holdings, such as Social Security and Medicare trust funds. The Federal Reserve, the US central bank, holds about $4.6 trillion in US Treasuries, part of its monetary policy operations. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-fed-rate-demand-trump-urges-powell-to-cut-rates-amid-falling-prices-9068849/embed Who are the main foreign holders of US debt? Japan is the largest foreign creditor with roughly $1.1 trillion in US debt holdings, followed by the UK ($809 billion), China ($756 billion), the Cayman Islands ($455 billion), and Canada ($426 billion). These countries invest heavily in US debt because the US dollar is the world’s primary reserve currency, and US Treasury securities are considered among the safest and most stable investments worldwide. The rising interest costs challenge the US budget Interest payments on the debt are increasingly straining the US budget. In fiscal year 2024, net interest costs reached nearly $880 billion—more than the government spends on Medicare or defence. Average interest rates on government borrowing have more than doubled in recent years, rising from around 1.6 per cent in 2022 to 3.35 per cent by mid-2025. This rise has prompted Moody’s to downgrade the US credit outlook, citing growing deficits and debt. Also read: Trump’s Fed interference poses ‘serious danger’ to world economy, warns ECB chief Christine Lagarde Why the US economy remains dominant The global demand for US dollars and Treasury securities underpins America’s economic strength in spite of its public debt. The dollar’s role as the primary reserve currency allows the US government to borrow at relatively low interest rates and continuously re-finance its debt. Investors worldwide see US debt as a safe, liquid asset. US GDP growth has been steady, helping to prevent the debt-to-GDP ratio from worsening despite rising debt. Much of the public debt is also held domestically—in pension funds, mutual funds, and financial institutions—reducing reliance on foreign creditors. Also read: 'Will bring America back to brink of economic catastrophe’: Trump administration urges Supreme Court to allow tariff imposition US economic resilience amid challenges: Risks and projections The US economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience, successfully navigating the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic with effective fiscal and monetary stimulus measures that stabilised markets and restored growth. However, risks remain. The Congressional Budget Office projects that public debt could rise from 99 per cent of GDP in 2024 to 116 per cent by 2034, potentially reaching 172 per cent by 2054 if current trends continue. Some forecasts suggest debt could hit 130 per cent of GDP over the next decade without significant policy reforms. Consultancy firm EY warns that unchecked debt growth could reduce economic output by $340 billion by 2035, lead to 1.2 million job losses, cut private investment by nearly 14 per cent, and suppress wages. Also read: US economy staring at recession? Global investment bank puts risk at 93%. Here's why Can the US sustain its debt? A sudden collapse under the debt burden is unlikely, but concerns persist. The US financial system remains one of the most credible globally, but credit rating agencies and investors are closely monitoring the country’s fiscal health. The critical question is whether the US government can manage its debt without undermining its economic leadership. For now, America’s unique position as the issuer of the world’s primary reserve currency, its ongoing economic growth, and deep financial markets allow it to maintain global dominance. However, the future depends on prudent fiscal management to prevent the debt from becoming a significant drag on economic progress.

<p>The US holds $37 trillion in national debt, the highest globally, yet remains the world's largest economy. But just how? The strong trust in and demand for the US dollar, steady GDP growth and investor trust in Treasury securities are the answers. How long can this go on?</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Debtor nation: The US owes $37 trillion, world's largest public debt, but still dominates global economy. How?

<p>New Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s journey from a political outsider to the top of Thailand’s power structure is inseparable from one of the most radical policy experiments in Southeast Asia in which he played a crucial role: cannabis legalisation. The so-called 'Cannabis King' of Thailand was one of the forces behind Thailand's boldest drug reform, which made recreational use of cannabis legal. Anutin leveraged his controversial but popular stance into national prominence. Anutin won 311 parliamentary votes after the ousting of Paetongtarn Shinawatra. In order to get support from the opposition People’s Party, Anutin pledged fresh elections within four months, constitutional reforms, and possibly a referendum.&nbsp;</p><h2>Anutin Charnvirakul, the new Thailand PM: What you should know</h2><p>The 58-year-old business executive-turned-politician holds an engineering degree from Hofstra University in New York. Anutin is the major shareholder and former president of Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction, which was involved in major infrastructure projects like Suvarnabhumi Airport.</p><p>The royalist businessman is a pragmatic conservative. He is a Buddhist amulet collector and a licensed pilot. Anutin once flew organs for emergency transplants.</p><h2>Anutin Charnvirakul: Political career</h2><p>Anutin was the deputy health minister under Thaksin Shinawatra in 2004. He was later banned from politics after the Thai Rak Thai party was dissolved by court order. He re-emerged as the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party in 2012, turning it into a power broker through rural support and playing the role of kingmaker in coalition governments. Between 2019 and 2023, Anutin served as health minister, and from 2023 until becoming prime minister, he was interior minister. The savvy politician cultivated strong ties with both military-linked conservatives and local patronage networks.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-s-new-prime-minister-have-enough-support-anutin-1757053568679/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-s-new-prime-minister-have-enough-support-anutin-1757053568679/embed</a></p><h2>How Anutin became the force behind Thailand's cannabis revolution</h2><p>Anutin was one of the major voices favouring legislation to legalise cannabis. His view was that it could reduce prison overcrowding — over 80 per cent of inmates were jailed for drug-related offences.</p><p>He argued that legal cannabis would alleviate rural poverty and sought to position cannabis and hemp as “cash crops” that would boost both agriculture and tourism.</p><p>In a party stunt during the 2022 election campaign, Anutin’s party gave away one million free cannabis plants. He even wore a marijuana-leaf print shirt to vote in the 2023 election.</p><p>He was mostly proven right. The legalisation of cannabis attracted more foreign tourists and empowered many farmers.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anutin-charnvirakul-elected-as-new-thailand-pm-amid-political-shake-up-who-is-he-1757066908533">Anutin Charnvirakul elected as new Thailand PM amid political shake-up. Who is he?</a></p><h2>Cannabis legalisation in Thailand: Major milestones</h2><p>In 2018, Thailand became the first Southeast Asian nation to legalise medical cannabis. It was decriminalised in 2022, making Thailand the first Asian country to allow recreational use.</p><p>The legalisation led to a boom, with over 11,200 cannabis dispensaries opened across the country by 2025. Cannabis is projected to become a $9.6 billion industry by 2030. Cannabis tourism surged, especially in hubs like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-gather-to-smoke-up-at-thailands-first-legal-cannabis-festival-487790">Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival</a></p><h2>But Thailand's cannabis legalisation faced backlash</h2><p>In recent years, however, there has been social and political pressure to roll back some of the reforms due to youth misuse, unregulated access, and black market exports.</p><p>The former prime minister, Srettha Thavisin of the Pheu Thai Party, tried to recriminalise cannabis amid the pressure. Anutin, then still in the ruling coalition, opposed the recriminalisation, instead seeking stricter medical oversight.</p><p>Some restrictions are in place now: Cannabis buds were reclassified as 'controlled herbs', and medical use is allowed only with a prescription. Recreational use is practically banned, but enforcement remains inconsistent.</p><p>Anutin has said that his intention was never to allow unregulated recreational use, but to enable "medicinal and economic empowerment".</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-moves-ahead-to-ban-recreational-marijuana-use-with-draft-bill-687727">Thailand moves ahead to ban recreational marijuana use with draft bill</a></p><h2>Anutin’s legacy will be linked to cannabis</h2><p>Anutin has taken over as PM at a time of economic slowdown due to global trade tensions and political instability, which saw five prime ministers removed in 17 years. The cannabis industry he promoted is in limbo, caught between business potential and conservative social backlash.</p><p>For better or worse, Anutin will be tied to the cannabis revolution which made him a household name.</p>

Anutin Charnvirakul, dubbed Thailand’s “Cannabis King,” rose to power after leading the country’s bold cannabis decriminalisation. The hemp reform boosted tourism and rural income, propelling Anutin to PMamid political turmoil and regulatory backlash.

New Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s journey from a political outsider to the top of Thailand’s power structure is inseparable from one of the most radical policy experiments in Southeast Asia in which he played a crucial role: cannabis legalisation. The so-called 'Cannabis King' of Thailand was one of the forces behind Thailand's boldest drug reform, which made recreational use of cannabis legal. Anutin leveraged his controversial but popular stance into national prominence. Anutin won 311 parliamentary votes after the ousting of Paetongtarn Shinawatra. In order to get support from the opposition People’s Party, Anutin pledged fresh elections within four months, constitutional reforms, and possibly a referendum. Anutin Charnvirakul, the new Thailand PM: What you should know The 58-year-old business executive-turned-politician holds an engineering degree from Hofstra University in New York. Anutin is the major shareholder and former president of Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction, which was involved in major infrastructure projects like Suvarnabhumi Airport. The royalist businessman is a pragmatic conservative. He is a Buddhist amulet collector and a licensed pilot. Anutin once flew organs for emergency transplants. Anutin Charnvirakul: Political career Anutin was the deputy health minister under Thaksin Shinawatra in 2004. He was later banned from politics after the Thai Rak Thai party was dissolved by court order. He re-emerged as the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party in 2012, turning it into a power broker through rural support and playing the role of kingmaker in coalition governments. Between 2019 and 2023, Anutin served as health minister, and from 2023 until becoming prime minister, he was interior minister. The savvy politician cultivated strong ties with both military-linked conservatives and local patronage networks. https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-s-new-prime-minister-have-enough-support-anutin-1757053568679/embed How Anutin became the force behind Thailand's cannabis revolution Anutin was one of the major voices favouring legislation to legalise cannabis. His view was that it could reduce prison overcrowding — over 80 per cent of inmates were jailed for drug-related offences. He argued that legal cannabis would alleviate rural poverty and sought to position cannabis and hemp as “cash crops” that would boost both agriculture and tourism. In a party stunt during the 2022 election campaign, Anutin’s party gave away one million free cannabis plants. He even wore a marijuana-leaf print shirt to vote in the 2023 election. He was mostly proven right. The legalisation of cannabis attracted more foreign tourists and empowered many farmers. Also read: Anutin Charnvirakul elected as new Thailand PM amid political shake-up. Who is he? Cannabis legalisation in Thailand: Major milestones In 2018, Thailand became the first Southeast Asian nation to legalise medical cannabis. It was decriminalised in 2022, making Thailand the first Asian country to allow recreational use. The legalisation led to a boom, with over 11,200 cannabis dispensaries opened across the country by 2025. Cannabis is projected to become a $9.6 billion industry by 2030. Cannabis tourism surged, especially in hubs like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya. Also read: Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival But Thailand's cannabis legalisation faced backlash In recent years, however, there has been social and political pressure to roll back some of the reforms due to youth misuse, unregulated access, and black market exports. The former prime minister, Srettha Thavisin of the Pheu Thai Party, tried to recriminalise cannabis amid the pressure. Anutin, then still in the ruling coalition, opposed the recriminalisation, instead seeking stricter medical oversight. Some restrictions are in place now: Cannabis buds were reclassified as 'controlled herbs', and medical use is allowed only with a prescription. Recreational use is practically banned, but enforcement remains inconsistent. Anutin has said that his intention was never to allow unregulated recreational use, but to enable "medicinal and economic empowerment". Also read: Thailand moves ahead to ban recreational marijuana use with draft bill Anutin’s legacy will be linked to cannabis Anutin has taken over as PM at a time of economic slowdown due to global trade tensions and political instability, which saw five prime ministers removed in 17 years. The cannabis industry he promoted is in limbo, caught between business potential and conservative social backlash. For better or worse, Anutin will be tied to the cannabis revolution which made him a household name.

<p>Anutin Charnvirakul, dubbed Thailand’s “Cannabis King,” rose to power after leading the country’s bold cannabis decriminalisation. The hemp reform boosted tourism and rural income, propelling Anutin to PMamid political turmoil and regulatory backlash.</p>

'Cannabis king' to Thailand prime minister: Anutin Charnvirakuls' political rise linked to nation's hemp legalisation revolution

<p>The Indian rupee slid to a record low of ₹88.36 per US dollar this week amid fears of new US tariffs and global economic uncertainties. The Reserve Bank of India, the nation's central bank, reportedly intervened to cap further losses. On August 29, the rupee breached the ₹88 mark, touching ₹88.29. These are among the weakest points for the rupee in recent memory, but one group will benefit: Indian expats sending money home.</p><h2>India is the largest recipient of global remittances</h2><p>In the fiscal year 2024–25, India received a record high of $135.46 billion in inward remittances. That marks a steady growth. In 2024, remittance inflows climbed to around $129 billion, according to the World Bank, up from an estimated $125 billion in 2023. The figure was about $111 billion in 2022.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-tourists-can-pay-in-indian-rupees-with-local-currency-settlement-agreement-says-maldives-finance-minister-moosa-zameer-1753778762423"><strong>Indian tourists can pay in Indian Rupees with local currency settlement agreement, says Maldives Finance Minister Moosa Zameer</strong></a></p><h2>Why a weaker rupee is a boon for NRIs sending money home</h2><p>A weaker rupee benefits Indian expatriates by enabling them to convert every dollar, or other foreign currency, into more rupees, increasing the value of their remittances. For example, at ₹88 to a dollar, $1,000 becomes ₹88,000 instead of, say, ₹82,000 — a gain of ₹6,000.</p><p>This gives greater purchasing power to the recipients of these remittances. Whether for household needs, education, investment, or savings, they gain more value.</p><p>So, the drop in the rupee rate, driven by US tariff concerns and foreign exchange volatility, is in a way helping this segment of Indian society.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/experts-indian-rupee-likely-to-stabilise-near-88-1756965337036/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/experts-indian-rupee-likely-to-stabilise-near-88-1756965337036/embed</a></p><h2>Who is sending money to India? Origins and destinations</h2><p>The United States is the key source country in terms of value of remittances, accounting for around 27.7 per cent of total flows. The UAE (19.2 per cent) and the UK (10.8 per cent) are also among the top countries. Remittances of about ₹500,000 account for 28.6 per cent of the total inflows. Smaller transactions — ₹16,500 or less — make up 40.6 per cent.</p><p>States with high remittance inflows include Maharashtra (20.5 per cent), Kerala (19.7 per cent), and Tamil Nadu (10.4 per cent).</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indo-pak-war-indian-rupee-slides-to-record-lows-falls-to-8588-against-dollar-sharpest-drop-in-over-25-years-9051844">Indo-Pak war: Indian Rupee slides to record lows; falls to 85.88 against dollar, sharpest drop in over 2.5 years</a></p><h2>Indian rupee fall trends and effect on remittances</h2><p>The rupee has been falling in recent months, dropping to ₹87.29 per US dollar in February. Historically, a weaker rupee always encouraged NRIs to remit money more frequently and in larger amounts. The 2018 rupee depreciation to 69.62 per US dollar caused a 25 per cent volume spike in remittances from the UAE.</p><p>The current depreciation — around 3.6 per cent over 10 months — is showing a similar effect, particularly among skilled migrants in high-income countries.</p><h2>Easier now to send remittances, but challenges remain</h2><p>Digital infrastructure for sending money, including platforms like UPI, has improved the remittance process by reducing costs, increasing transaction speed and boosting volumes.</p><p>But challenges remain. Any global slowdown, or headwinds like falling oil prices and economic uncertainties, could impact remittance inflows. There is also the risk of countries changing their visa and immigration policies, which could affect future remittance volumes.</p>

The rupee’s fall to record lows against the dollar is boosting remittances from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). This is good for the economy as the recipients get more purchasing power to buy goods and services, boosting demand and economic activity

The Indian rupee slid to a record low of ₹88.36 per US dollar this week amid fears of new US tariffs and global economic uncertainties. The Reserve Bank of India, the nation's central bank, reportedly intervened to cap further losses. On August 29, the rupee breached the ₹88 mark, touching ₹88.29. These are among the weakest points for the rupee in recent memory, but one group will benefit: Indian expats sending money home. India is the largest recipient of global remittances In the fiscal year 2024–25, India received a record high of $135.46 billion in inward remittances. That marks a steady growth. In 2024, remittance inflows climbed to around $129 billion, according to the World Bank, up from an estimated $125 billion in 2023. The figure was about $111 billion in 2022. Also read: Indian tourists can pay in Indian Rupees with local currency settlement agreement, says Maldives Finance Minister Moosa Zameer Why a weaker rupee is a boon for NRIs sending money home A weaker rupee benefits Indian expatriates by enabling them to convert every dollar, or other foreign currency, into more rupees, increasing the value of their remittances. For example, at ₹88 to a dollar, $1,000 becomes ₹88,000 instead of, say, ₹82,000 — a gain of ₹6,000. This gives greater purchasing power to the recipients of these remittances. Whether for household needs, education, investment, or savings, they gain more value. So, the drop in the rupee rate, driven by US tariff concerns and foreign exchange volatility, is in a way helping this segment of Indian society. https://www.wionews.com/videos/experts-indian-rupee-likely-to-stabilise-near-88-1756965337036/embed Who is sending money to India? Origins and destinations The United States is the key source country in terms of value of remittances, accounting for around 27.7 per cent of total flows. The UAE (19.2 per cent) and the UK (10.8 per cent) are also among the top countries. Remittances of about ₹500,000 account for 28.6 per cent of the total inflows. Smaller transactions — ₹16,500 or less — make up 40.6 per cent. States with high remittance inflows include Maharashtra (20.5 per cent), Kerala (19.7 per cent), and Tamil Nadu (10.4 per cent). Also read: Indo-Pak war: Indian Rupee slides to record lows; falls to 85.88 against dollar, sharpest drop in over 2.5 years Indian rupee fall trends and effect on remittances The rupee has been falling in recent months, dropping to ₹87.29 per US dollar in February. Historically, a weaker rupee always encouraged NRIs to remit money more frequently and in larger amounts. The 2018 rupee depreciation to 69.62 per US dollar caused a 25 per cent volume spike in remittances from the UAE. The current depreciation — around 3.6 per cent over 10 months — is showing a similar effect, particularly among skilled migrants in high-income countries. Easier now to send remittances, but challenges remain Digital infrastructure for sending money, including platforms like UPI, has improved the remittance process by reducing costs, increasing transaction speed and boosting volumes. But challenges remain. Any global slowdown, or headwinds like falling oil prices and economic uncertainties, could impact remittance inflows. There is also the risk of countries changing their visa and immigration policies, which could affect future remittance volumes.

<p>The rupee’s fall to record lows against the dollar is boosting remittances from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). This is good for the economy as the recipients get more purchasing power to buy goods and services, boosting demand and economic activity</p>

Rupee fall is a boon for Indian expats who send money home. Here is why it matters for largest remittance-receiving nation

<p>India's Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms are expected to offset the Trump tariffs at least partially, but it depends on a number of factors. The GST reforms consolidated tax slabs and cut rates on hundreds of items, from cars and electronics to soaps and insurance premiums. The aim is to boost domestic consumption, improve tax collection, and create an investment-friendly business environment. The reforms came days after the 50 per cent tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump over the trade gap and India's oil purchases from Russia. The tariffs could impact India's textiles, auto parts, and industrial machinery sectors, among others. This could hurt India's export competitiveness in the US, which is its largest trading partner.</p><h2>What did India's GST reforms do to the taxpayer?</h2><p>India's ‘GST 2.0’ reforms simplified it to two main slabs of 5 per cent and 18 per cent, while a 40 per cent slab was introduced for luxury/sin goods such as premium cars and tobacco products.</p><p>Tax rate for consumer durables was cut from 28 per cent to 18 per cent, and for processed foods from 12 per cent to 5 per cent, besides signficant reductions for textiles-linked products.</p><p>The GDP boost is estimated from 0.6 per cent to 1.2 per cent, as per analysts.</p><p>It would simplify tax filing for medium and small enterprises (MSMEs), enable faster refunds and improve ease of doing business.</p><p>GST cuts also could ease inflation, which is already at an eight-year low.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gst-reforms-2025-rate-cuts-5-per-cent-slab-middle-class-relief-1756971115143"><strong>Also read: GST rate cuts on common goods: Relief for middle class, push for festive demand</strong></a></p><h2>How India's exports sectors are affected by Trump tariffs</h2><p>India is estimated to have saved $17 billion by importing discounted Russian oil. The exports to US in 2024 were around $87 billion or around 2.5 per cent of India’s GDP. Up to 66 per cent of these exports are at risk of Trump tariff impact, with estimated loss ranging from 4 billion to 37 billion dollars depending on the value of the lost exports.<br>Textiles could take a hit of $10.3 billion, Gems &amp; Jewellery could be hurt by $10 billion, while auto components, shrimp, chemicals and leather are some other areas that can be affected. Job losses are estimated at over 1 million, particularly in textiles, gems, machinery and fisheries sectors. GDP loss could range from 0.1 per cent to 1 per cent, according to analysts from HSBC, Nomura, Nirmal Bank, Cleartax and others.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-gst-reform-what-gets-cheaper-and-what-becomes-costlier-under-new-slabs-1757046365613/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-gst-reform-what-gets-cheaper-and-what-becomes-costlier-under-new-slabs-1757046365613/embed</a></p><h2>How India is seeing GST reform amid Trump tariffs</h2><p>Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal hailed the GST reforms as “game-changing” and hinted that they could partially shield India from global trade disruptions—an indirect reference to the Trump tariffs. National Stock Exchange CEO Ashishkumar Chauhan and Kotak Mahindra’s Nilesh Shah expressed hope that the simplified tax regime would attract investment and spur growth.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/will-flight-tickets-be-cheaper-in-new-gst-slab-quick-overview-before-your-next-vacation-1756994610769">Also read: Will flight tickets be cheaper in new GST slab? Quick overview before your next vacation</a></p><p>State Bank of India noted that GST cuts and other recent income tax reliefs might inject some ₹5.31 trillion into the economy, roughly 1.6 per cent of India’s GDP. This is significant, as the impact from Trump tariffs on GDP was estimated at around 1 per cent.</p><p>Analysts such as Fitch Solutions projected GDP growth of 5.8 per cent in the financial year 2025–26 and 5.4 per cent in 2026–27 if domestic reforms continue and global trade conditions don’t worsen. Elara Capital and Geojit Financial Services estimated that increased consumption resulting from the GST reforms could lift GDP growth by up to 1.2 percentage points over the next 4 to 6 quarters.</p><p>A Moneycontrol portal survey found that 67 per cent of economists believe GST reforms and tax cuts will at least partially offset the damage from Trump tariffs.</p><h2>GST reforms vs Trump tariffs: It is more complicated&nbsp;</h2><p>Some experts, however, cautioned against overestimating the tax reform's capacity to offset the Trump tariffs. Even if consumption rises, export sectors directly hit by tariffs—such as apparel, auto parts, and engineering goods—rely heavily on international markets and could take years to recover from lost US revenue.</p><p>Economist Gaura Sen Gupta from IDFC First Bank estimated that GST-related growth gains will add 0.6 percentage points to GDP, but persistent tariffs at 50 per cent could neutralise these benefits.</p><p>It all depends on if Trump tightens his tariff stance.<br>Trump has already hinted at a second and third phase of sanctions or tariffs on buyers of Russian oil, which could also affect India. Therefore, the future effectiveness of India's tax reforms in offsetting the Trump tariffs depends on whether Trump hardens or softens his stance. If tariffs ease to 25 per cent or below by the end of the year, India may still meet its growth targets, according to experts.</p><h2>The government is taking a hit with GST, income tax reforms</h2><p>After GST reforms, along with some $12 billion in income tax relief announced earlier this year, the exchequer will take a hit of $20 billion per year due to the reforms, according to analysts.</p><p>&nbsp;Reduction of GST rates could impact public finances, particularly the tax collection of state governments that rely on GST for their budgets. There is a risk of underfunding crucial infrastructure and social programmes due to reduced revenue.</p><h2>GST reforms vs Trump tariffs: A buffer, not a cure</h2><p>Many economists and industry observers feel the GST reforms, while long overdue, are a strategic response to external pressures. They will have only a limited impact in the long run, as they are not a full substitute for losses from US-bound exports. The future will depend on how long the Trump tariffs remain, how the global trade environment evolves, and whether India can diversify its export markets quickly enough.</p><p>The general consensus is that GST reforms are a strong buffer, but not a cure for the current pressures on the Indian economy due to tariffs. More diplomatic engagement and export diversification are required to fully safeguard the Indian economy.</p><p>As mentioned earlier, the &nbsp;GDP impact of US tariffs is between 0.2% to –1%, while the GST reform would benefit it by an estimated 0.6%.</p><p>But it will take time.<br>It should be noted that GST reforms take time to impact the economy, while tariffs are immediate. Then there is sectoral mismatch: The reforms support domestic demand, but not all the export-heavy sectors.<br>If US tariffs are imposed in the 'second or third phases' on IT services, or non-tariff barriers like visa restrictions, it could hit India again. It could add to urban unemployment, which is already at 7.1 per cent in some cities.</p><p>In short, tariffs have an immediate, export-driven negative impact, &nbsp;causing a potential GDP loss of up to 1 per cent and taking a hit of over $30 billion in trade.<br>GST reforms can be a partial yet significant mitigation by boosting internal demand, and adding up to 0.6 per cent to GDP.<br>&nbsp;</p>

India’s GST reforms could partially offset Trump’s tariffs by boosting consumption and easing taxes but they won’t fully counteract tariff impacts on exports, according to expert views

India's Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms are expected to offset the Trump tariffs at least partially, but it depends on a number of factors. The GST reforms consolidated tax slabs and cut rates on hundreds of items, from cars and electronics to soaps and insurance premiums. The aim is to boost domestic consumption, improve tax collection, and create an investment-friendly business environment. The reforms came days after the 50 per cent tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump over the trade gap and India's oil purchases from Russia. The tariffs could impact India's textiles, auto parts, and industrial machinery sectors, among others. This could hurt India's export competitiveness in the US, which is its largest trading partner. What did India's GST reforms do to the taxpayer? India's ‘GST 2.0’ reforms simplified it to two main slabs of 5 per cent and 18 per cent, while a 40 per cent slab was introduced for luxury/sin goods such as premium cars and tobacco products. Tax rate for consumer durables was cut from 28 per cent to 18 per cent, and for processed foods from 12 per cent to 5 per cent, besides signficant reductions for textiles-linked products. The GDP boost is estimated from 0.6 per cent to 1.2 per cent, as per analysts. It would simplify tax filing for medium and small enterprises (MSMEs), enable faster refunds and improve ease of doing business. GST cuts also could ease inflation, which is already at an eight-year low. Also read: GST rate cuts on common goods: Relief for middle class, push for festive demand How India's exports sectors are affected by Trump tariffs India is estimated to have saved $17 billion by importing discounted Russian oil. The exports to US in 2024 were around $87 billion or around 2.5 per cent of India’s GDP. Up to 66 per cent of these exports are at risk of Trump tariff impact, with estimated loss ranging from 4 billion to 37 billion dollars depending on the value of the lost exports. Textiles could take a hit of $10.3 billion, Gems & Jewellery could be hurt by $10 billion, while auto components, shrimp, chemicals and leather are some other areas that can be affected. Job losses are estimated at over 1 million, particularly in textiles, gems, machinery and fisheries sectors. GDP loss could range from 0.1 per cent to 1 per cent, according to analysts from HSBC, Nomura, Nirmal Bank, Cleartax and others. https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-gst-reform-what-gets-cheaper-and-what-becomes-costlier-under-new-slabs-1757046365613/embed How India is seeing GST reform amid Trump tariffs Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal hailed the GST reforms as “game-changing” and hinted that they could partially shield India from global trade disruptions—an indirect reference to the Trump tariffs. National Stock Exchange CEO Ashishkumar Chauhan and Kotak Mahindra’s Nilesh Shah expressed hope that the simplified tax regime would attract investment and spur growth. Also read: Will flight tickets be cheaper in new GST slab? Quick overview before your next vacation State Bank of India noted that GST cuts and other recent income tax reliefs might inject some ₹5.31 trillion into the economy, roughly 1.6 per cent of India’s GDP. This is significant, as the impact from Trump tariffs on GDP was estimated at around 1 per cent. Analysts such as Fitch Solutions projected GDP growth of 5.8 per cent in the financial year 2025–26 and 5.4 per cent in 2026–27 if domestic reforms continue and global trade conditions don’t worsen. Elara Capital and Geojit Financial Services estimated that increased consumption resulting from the GST reforms could lift GDP growth by up to 1.2 percentage points over the next 4 to 6 quarters. A Moneycontrol portal survey found that 67 per cent of economists believe GST reforms and tax cuts will at least partially offset the damage from Trump tariffs. GST reforms vs Trump tariffs: It is more complicated Some experts, however, cautioned against overestimating the tax reform's capacity to offset the Trump tariffs. Even if consumption rises, export sectors directly hit by tariffs—such as apparel, auto parts, and engineering goods—rely heavily on international markets and could take years to recover from lost US revenue. Economist Gaura Sen Gupta from IDFC First Bank estimated that GST-related growth gains will add 0.6 percentage points to GDP, but persistent tariffs at 50 per cent could neutralise these benefits. It all depends on if Trump tightens his tariff stance. Trump has already hinted at a second and third phase of sanctions or tariffs on buyers of Russian oil, which could also affect India. Therefore, the future effectiveness of India's tax reforms in offsetting the Trump tariffs depends on whether Trump hardens or softens his stance. If tariffs ease to 25 per cent or below by the end of the year, India may still meet its growth targets, according to experts. The government is taking a hit with GST, income tax reforms After GST reforms, along with some $12 billion in income tax relief announced earlier this year, the exchequer will take a hit of $20 billion per year due to the reforms, according to analysts. Reduction of GST rates could impact public finances, particularly the tax collection of state governments that rely on GST for their budgets. There is a risk of underfunding crucial infrastructure and social programmes due to reduced revenue. GST reforms vs Trump tariffs: A buffer, not a cure Many economists and industry observers feel the GST reforms, while long overdue, are a strategic response to external pressures. They will have only a limited impact in the long run, as they are not a full substitute for losses from US-bound exports. The future will depend on how long the Trump tariffs remain, how the global trade environment evolves, and whether India can diversify its export markets quickly enough. The general consensus is that GST reforms are a strong buffer, but not a cure for the current pressures on the Indian economy due to tariffs. More diplomatic engagement and export diversification are required to fully safeguard the Indian economy. As mentioned earlier, the GDP impact of US tariffs is between 0.2% to –1%, while the GST reform would benefit it by an estimated 0.6%. But it will take time. It should be noted that GST reforms take time to impact the economy, while tariffs are immediate. Then there is sectoral mismatch: The reforms support domestic demand, but not all the export-heavy sectors. If US tariffs are imposed in the 'second or third phases' on IT services, or non-tariff barriers like visa restrictions, it could hit India again. It could add to urban unemployment, which is already at 7.1 per cent in some cities. In short, tariffs have an immediate, export-driven negative impact, causing a potential GDP loss of up to 1 per cent and taking a hit of over $30 billion in trade. GST reforms can be a partial yet significant mitigation by boosting internal demand, and adding up to 0.6 per cent to GDP.

<p>India’s GST reforms could partially offset Trump’s tariffs by boosting consumption and easing taxes but they won’t fully counteract tariff impacts on exports, according to expert views</p>

India GST reforms can offset Trump tariffs, but only under these conditions

<p>American states are fighting each other on medical care issues depending on their political leanings, in a new kind of ideological war shaping up across the nation. With the alleged politicisation and weaponisation of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), under Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr., red states and blue states are taking widely differing views and paths on public health policy, most evident in vaccine mandates. While Florida is aggressively rolling back childhood vaccine requirements, California is leading the formation of a science-based health alliance with other like-minded states. Here is how the US is entering into a full-blown ‘medical war’ where each state draws its own line between freedom and public safety.</p><h2>Florida to eliminate vaccine mandates</h2><p>In a stunning move, Florida announced plans this week to end all state-level vaccine mandates including for diseases like measles, polio, hepatitis B, and chickenpox. Framed by Governor Ron DeSantis and Surgeon General Dr Joseph Ladapo, the move is being described as “medical freedom,” but has sent shockwaves through the public health community.</p><p>Ladapo even likened vaccine mandates – most prominently in place during the COVID pandemic under the Biden presidency – to “slavery”. Florida is facing fierce criticism from the medical community, which warned that the child vaccine move could result in the resurgence of deadly, vaccine-preventable diseases.</p><p>"This is reckless," said Dr Michael Osterholm, a leading infectious disease expert, adding, "Florida is putting ideology ahead of basic public health science."</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-scraps-covid-vaccine-mandate-that-led-to-the-disscharge-of-more-than-8000-army-personnel-551371"><strong>Also read: Pentagon scraps Covid vaccine mandate that led to the discharge of more than 8,000 army personnel</strong></a></p><h2>Texas: Caught in the crossfire of consequences amid measles outbreak</h2><p>Texas, another Republican-held state, cancelled its annual immunisation conference due to uncertainties involving CDC participation, reflecting the confusion at the federal level under Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</p><p>This happened even as Texas battled the aftermath of a severe measles outbreak that sickened hundreds—mostly in areas with low vaccination rates.</p><p>This week, Texas also opened another battlefront over abortions, with a new law mandating that citizens can sue anyone prescribing and providing abortion pills.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cdc-officials-resign-over-vaccine-policy-director-removed-within-a-month-1756483124265/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/cdc-officials-resign-over-vaccine-policy-director-removed-within-a-month-1756483124265/embed</a></p><h2>How California and the West Coast are leading an anti-CDC rebellion</h2><p>Meanwhile, Democrat-ruled states on the West Coast – California, Oregon, and Washington – are taking a strong stance against the CDC. These states formed the West Coast Health Alliance that vowed to uphold evidence-based vaccine recommendations and counter what they view as a politicised and weakened CDC.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-vinay-prasad-indian-origin-fda-official-who-resigned-after-campaign-by-right-wing-influencer-laura-loomer-1753867702069"><strong>Also read: Who is Vinay Prasad, Indian-origin FDA official who resigned after campaign by right-wing influencer Laura Loomer?</strong></a></p><p>"We will not allow public health to be undermined by misinformation or political agendas," California Governor Gavin Newsom stated when announcing the alliance this week.</p><p>The states hope that their united approach will send a strong message that, in the absence of CDC's leadership, science will lead the way, even if it means going it alone against federal authorities.</p><h2>New York is reinforcing vaccine access, going against federal moves</h2><p>Local lawmakers in New York are seeking to firewall the state from national turbulence on vaccines. A set of legislation was introduced in the past few days, including for insurance coverage for vaccines, even if the federal government weakens or removes existing CDC guidance on vaccines.</p><p>The CDC has cut funding and staff for New York City, whose Department of Health is trying to maintain immunisation efforts despite the instability caused by these federal moves. “We have a duty to protect New Yorkers, no matter what happens in Washington,” said a senior city health official.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-faces-rising-claims-for-covid-19-vaccine-damages-over-14000-seek-compensation-751001">Also read: UK faces rising claims for COVID-19 vaccine damages; over 14,000 seek compensation</a></p><h2>Red versus blue states on healthcare</h2><p>The whole situation is pointing to a political divide: Texas and Florida are rejecting traditional public health structures, preferring freedom and autonomy over science. Blue states like California and New York are reinforcing science-based governance and resisting federal erosion led by the CDC.</p><p>Caught in the crossfire are men, women and children, with their ZIP code determining if they will get science-backed healthcare.</p><p>The CDC used to be the leading authority for nationwide immunisation campaigns. But now, it has become a battleground of ideology with several top officials leaving. As parents, educators, and health workers navigate conflicting policies, inconsistent messaging, and growing distrust, the eventual result could be an America that's less healthy in a chaotic medical care environment.</p>

US states are divided over vaccination and CDC policies. Florida and Texas reject vaccine mandates and federal health rules, while California, Oregon and Washington have formed an anti-CDC alliance. US medical care is in ICU

American states are fighting each other on medical care issues depending on their political leanings, in a new kind of ideological war shaping up across the nation. With the alleged politicisation and weaponisation of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), under Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr., red states and blue states are taking widely differing views and paths on public health policy, most evident in vaccine mandates. While Florida is aggressively rolling back childhood vaccine requirements, California is leading the formation of a science-based health alliance with other like-minded states. Here is how the US is entering into a full-blown ‘medical war’ where each state draws its own line between freedom and public safety. Florida to eliminate vaccine mandates In a stunning move, Florida announced plans this week to end all state-level vaccine mandates including for diseases like measles, polio, hepatitis B, and chickenpox. Framed by Governor Ron DeSantis and Surgeon General Dr Joseph Ladapo, the move is being described as “medical freedom,” but has sent shockwaves through the public health community. Ladapo even likened vaccine mandates – most prominently in place during the COVID pandemic under the Biden presidency – to “slavery”. Florida is facing fierce criticism from the medical community, which warned that the child vaccine move could result in the resurgence of deadly, vaccine-preventable diseases. "This is reckless," said Dr Michael Osterholm, a leading infectious disease expert, adding, "Florida is putting ideology ahead of basic public health science." Also read: Pentagon scraps Covid vaccine mandate that led to the discharge of more than 8,000 army personnel Texas: Caught in the crossfire of consequences amid measles outbreak Texas, another Republican-held state, cancelled its annual immunisation conference due to uncertainties involving CDC participation, reflecting the confusion at the federal level under Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This happened even as Texas battled the aftermath of a severe measles outbreak that sickened hundreds—mostly in areas with low vaccination rates. This week, Texas also opened another battlefront over abortions, with a new law mandating that citizens can sue anyone prescribing and providing abortion pills. https://www.wionews.com/videos/cdc-officials-resign-over-vaccine-policy-director-removed-within-a-month-1756483124265/embed How California and the West Coast are leading an anti-CDC rebellion Meanwhile, Democrat-ruled states on the West Coast – California, Oregon, and Washington – are taking a strong stance against the CDC. These states formed the West Coast Health Alliance that vowed to uphold evidence-based vaccine recommendations and counter what they view as a politicised and weakened CDC. Also read: Who is Vinay Prasad, Indian-origin FDA official who resigned after campaign by right-wing influencer Laura Loomer? "We will not allow public health to be undermined by misinformation or political agendas," California Governor Gavin Newsom stated when announcing the alliance this week. The states hope that their united approach will send a strong message that, in the absence of CDC's leadership, science will lead the way, even if it means going it alone against federal authorities. New York is reinforcing vaccine access, going against federal moves Local lawmakers in New York are seeking to firewall the state from national turbulence on vaccines. A set of legislation was introduced in the past few days, including for insurance coverage for vaccines, even if the federal government weakens or removes existing CDC guidance on vaccines. The CDC has cut funding and staff for New York City, whose Department of Health is trying to maintain immunisation efforts despite the instability caused by these federal moves. “We have a duty to protect New Yorkers, no matter what happens in Washington,” said a senior city health official. Also read: UK faces rising claims for COVID-19 vaccine damages; over 14,000 seek compensation Red versus blue states on healthcare The whole situation is pointing to a political divide: Texas and Florida are rejecting traditional public health structures, preferring freedom and autonomy over science. Blue states like California and New York are reinforcing science-based governance and resisting federal erosion led by the CDC. Caught in the crossfire are men, women and children, with their ZIP code determining if they will get science-backed healthcare. The CDC used to be the leading authority for nationwide immunisation campaigns. But now, it has become a battleground of ideology with several top officials leaving. As parents, educators, and health workers navigate conflicting policies, inconsistent messaging, and growing distrust, the eventual result could be an America that's less healthy in a chaotic medical care environment.

<p>US states are divided over vaccination and CDC policies. Florida and Texas reject vaccine mandates and federal health rules, while California, Oregon and Washington have formed an anti-CDC alliance. US medical care is in ICU</p>

Medical Wars in US: It’s State vs State over vaccination and top disease control body CDC

<p>The White House has removed the World Trade Organization (WTO) from its official list of $4.9 billion in proposed foreign aid cuts, just days after including it in a sweeping budget rollback aimed at international institutions, mainly United Nations agencies. The reversal of Thursday (Sep 4) marks a rare moment of retreat in President Donald Trump’s second term, &nbsp;with his zigzag approach to US engagement with global institutions.&nbsp;</p><h2>Trump and funding cuts for UN agencies: A familiar pattern</h2><p>Since he returned to the Oval Room, Trump has issued orders targeting international aid and relief agencies and the United Nations.&nbsp;</p><p>One of his first executive orders on 20 &nbsp;January this year paused nearly all foreign development aid for 90 days, including funding for UN agencies.&nbsp;</p><p>On 4 February 4, &nbsp;his government took direct aim at several familiar targets:</p><p>He cut funds to UNRWA, the UN agency supporting Palestinian refugees, citing its alleged ties to the Hamas militant group tied to the 7 October 2023 attacks on Israel.<br>The US fully withdrew from the UN Human Rights Council, as it did in Trump's first term in 2018.<br>UNESCO was placed under formal review, without any funding changes as of now.</p><h2>The WTO funding issue: How it started</h2><p>The second Trump administration tried to cancel $4.9 billion in foreign aid already approved by US Congress through the rarely used "pocket rescission" under the Impoundment Control Act.</p><p>The list included $521 million earmarked for multilateral organisations. Among these was the $29 million annual US contribution to the WTO. The cutting of this aid was made in a public announcement in late August</p><p>But WTO is a different kind of beast. It is still the main legal framework guiding international trade. The US was already behind on its payments—as of December 2024, it owed the WTO nearly 11 per cent of its total budget. The WTO marked these arrears under “Category 1” , which limits US participation in key functions like dispute panels.</p><p>Lawmakers argued the WTO fund cut move violated Congress’s constitutional power of the purse. The Trump administration was warned that cutting funds to the WTO would give more influence to US rivals like China.&nbsp;</p><p>The pressure has now made the Trump administration walk back, with the White House removing WTO from the pocket recessions list.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wto-chief-warns-of-biggest-trade-disruption-in-80-years-1756876442912/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/wto-chief-warns-of-biggest-trade-disruption-in-80-years-1756876442912/embed</a></p><h2>WTO move is similar to Trump's steps against other global agencies</h2><p>In his first and second terms, the Trump administration made several steps to move away from multilateralism.</p><p>It cut all funding to UNRWA in 2018, ending decades of American leadership as its top donor.<br>The first Trump administration withdrew the US from UNESCO in 2017, citing alleged anti-Israel bias.<br>In 2017, it defunded the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), alleging coercive reproductive practices in China.<br><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-seeks-wto-relief-against-donald-trump-tariffs-report-1754504862581"><strong>Also read: Brazil seeks WTO relief against Donald Trump tariffs: Report</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Most widely known move from the first term of Trump was the suspension of US funding to the WHO in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, Trump blamed the UN health agency's deference to China.<br>In 2019, the Trump administration blocked appointments to the WTO's dispute resolution system, effectively crippling the appellate body.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tariffs-wto-warns-of-economic-turbulence-ahead-slashes-global-trade-forecast-figures-8969720"><strong>Also read: Trump tariffs: WTO warns of economic turbulence ahead, slashes global trade forecast figures</strong></a></p><h2>Suspicion, withdrawal, funding cuts: Trump's deep dislike for international organisations</h2><p>The WTO funding issue is the latest in the Trump administration's consistent bashing of global bodies. &nbsp;Across his fist and second terms, Trump made the same approach to multilateral organisations: suspicion, withdrawal, and budget cuts. But he probably realised that cutting funds to a crucial organisation like WTO will get the US entangled in international diplomatic wranglings and trade disputes.</p>

From UNRWA to the WTO and WHO, Trump’s second term echoes his first when it comes to cutting funds for United Nations agencies. Here is the story of his hot and cold, impulsive approach to these global agencies 

The White House has removed the World Trade Organization (WTO) from its official list of $4.9 billion in proposed foreign aid cuts, just days after including it in a sweeping budget rollback aimed at international institutions, mainly United Nations agencies. The reversal of Thursday (Sep 4) marks a rare moment of retreat in President Donald Trump’s second term, with his zigzag approach to US engagement with global institutions. Trump and funding cuts for UN agencies: A familiar pattern Since he returned to the Oval Room, Trump has issued orders targeting international aid and relief agencies and the United Nations. One of his first executive orders on 20 January this year paused nearly all foreign development aid for 90 days, including funding for UN agencies. On 4 February 4, his government took direct aim at several familiar targets: He cut funds to UNRWA, the UN agency supporting Palestinian refugees, citing its alleged ties to the Hamas militant group tied to the 7 October 2023 attacks on Israel. The US fully withdrew from the UN Human Rights Council, as it did in Trump's first term in 2018. UNESCO was placed under formal review, without any funding changes as of now. The WTO funding issue: How it started The second Trump administration tried to cancel $4.9 billion in foreign aid already approved by US Congress through the rarely used "pocket rescission" under the Impoundment Control Act. The list included $521 million earmarked for multilateral organisations. Among these was the $29 million annual US contribution to the WTO. The cutting of this aid was made in a public announcement in late August But WTO is a different kind of beast. It is still the main legal framework guiding international trade. The US was already behind on its payments—as of December 2024, it owed the WTO nearly 11 per cent of its total budget. The WTO marked these arrears under “Category 1” , which limits US participation in key functions like dispute panels. Lawmakers argued the WTO fund cut move violated Congress’s constitutional power of the purse. The Trump administration was warned that cutting funds to the WTO would give more influence to US rivals like China. The pressure has now made the Trump administration walk back, with the White House removing WTO from the pocket recessions list. https://www.wionews.com/videos/wto-chief-warns-of-biggest-trade-disruption-in-80-years-1756876442912/embed WTO move is similar to Trump's steps against other global agencies In his first and second terms, the Trump administration made several steps to move away from multilateralism. It cut all funding to UNRWA in 2018, ending decades of American leadership as its top donor. The first Trump administration withdrew the US from UNESCO in 2017, citing alleged anti-Israel bias. In 2017, it defunded the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), alleging coercive reproductive practices in China. Also read: Brazil seeks WTO relief against Donald Trump tariffs: Report Most widely known move from the first term of Trump was the suspension of US funding to the WHO in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, Trump blamed the UN health agency's deference to China. In 2019, the Trump administration blocked appointments to the WTO's dispute resolution system, effectively crippling the appellate body. Also read: Trump tariffs: WTO warns of economic turbulence ahead, slashes global trade forecast figures Suspicion, withdrawal, funding cuts: Trump's deep dislike for international organisations The WTO funding issue is the latest in the Trump administration's consistent bashing of global bodies. Across his fist and second terms, Trump made the same approach to multilateral organisations: suspicion, withdrawal, and budget cuts. But he probably realised that cutting funds to a crucial organisation like WTO will get the US entangled in international diplomatic wranglings and trade disputes.

<p>From UNRWA to the WTO and WHO, Trump’s second term echoes his first when it comes to cutting funds for United Nations agencies. Here is the story of his hot and cold, impulsive approach to these global agencies&nbsp;</p>

Trump administration quietly moves back from cutting funds to WTO. How it blew hot and cold on UN agencies over the years

<p>France’s data protection authority, the Commission Nationale de l’Informatique et des Libertés (CNIL), has fined Google €325 million (around $381 million) for displaying ads to Gmail users without their consent, and placing ad-tracking cookies without proper user opt-in. This is a violation of privacy laws. But the fines are nothing more than a rap on the wrist for Google, whose revenue from the European Union area is so high that it could be compared to the cost of buying pizza or toll tax for an average company. Here is why.</p><h2>What did French watchdog say about Gmail privacy issue?</h2><p>CNIL found that Gmail users were shown ads directly within their inboxes, violating EU's ePrivacy Directive and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The authority also slammed Google’s practice of pre-setting cookie preferences during the account creation process, effectively bypassing user choice, opt-in or opt-out.</p><p>Google has been asked to make changes within six months in the CNIL order of Wednesday (Se 3). It must stop displaying ads in Gmail inboxes without prior user consent, and ensure that anyone making a new Google account shoule be explicity asked to agree to ad tracking before any data is collected or used for commercial targeting.</p><p>Meta plans fourth AI restructure in six months</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/google-sold-when-an-indian-man-bought-googlecom-at-12-owned-it-for-seconds-heres-what-happened-next-8963894"><strong>Also read: Google SOLD! When an Indian man bought Google.com at $12, owned it for seconds, here's what happened next</strong></a></p><h2>French watchdog has fined Google in past too</h2><p>This is not the first time CNIL took action against Google. It was fined €100 million in 2020 and €150 million in 2022, both for cookie consent violations. The issue was the lack of easily accessible option to refuse tracking cookies.</p><p>But these penalties are dwarfed by how much Google makes in the European market.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/meta-plans-fourth-ai-restructure-in-six-months-1755332560718"><strong>Also read: Meta plans fourth AI restructure in six months</strong></a></p><h2>Why the fines are just cost of doing business for Google</h2><p>The fines, including the ‘record’ one slapped on Wednesday, are nothing more than the cost of doing business for Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company. It reported global (meaning non-US) revenue of $90.2 billion in the first quarter of 2025 alone, with net income reaching $34.5 billion. So the math of Wednesday fine of €325 million is: less than 0.25 percent of Alphabet’s quarterly global revenue.</p><p>In other words, this amount is so small relative to its earnings that it barely registers as a material financial cost.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-april-1-indian-govt-can-see-your-whatsapp-messages-emails-what-you-need-to-know-8898193"><strong>Also read: From April 1, Indian govt can see your WhatsApp messages, emails. Here's what you need to know</strong></a></p><h2>Fines are miniscule compared to Google's overall annual revenue from France and Europe&nbsp;</h2><p>In fact, if we examining Alphabet’s operations in France and the EU, the fines are even smaller, as France could be contributing up to €2 billion in annual revenue for Google mainly from digital advertising. But Alphabet’s profit-shifting practices and reliance on Ireland for European tax filings make exact figures opaque.</p><p>At the European Union level, Alphabet likely earns €75–95 billion in annual revenue, with estimated profits of €19–24 billion. In that context, even a combined €450 million in fines levied by France between 2019 and 2024 represents less than 0.6 per cent of one year’s European revenue and no more than 2.4 per cent of annual profit.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/google-says-eu-digital-rules-stifle-innovation-demands-clarity-1751361150657"><strong>Also read: Google says EU digital rules stifle innovation, demands clarity</strong></a></p><h2>For Google, the fines are a nuisance, not a deterrent</h2><p>Regulators across the world have been criticised for imposing small penalties on Google, akin to toll taxes for a truck company. These are annoying roadblocks, but can easily be absorbed into the cost of doing business at scale. It should be noted that the maximum fine permitted under GDPR is 4 per cent of a company’s global annual turnover. In Alphabet’s case, that could be €10 billion, at least in theory, based on recent revenue levels.</p><p>Yet, CNIL has never approached that upper limit when fining the tech giant.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-i-have-failed-you-google-s-gemini-ai-deletes-user-s-files-later-apologises-for-catastrophic-error-1753706018911"><strong>Also read: 'I have failed you': Google’s Gemini AI deletes user's files, later apologises for ‘Catastrophic’ error</strong></a></p><h2>French fine will not change the predatory advertising practices of Google</h2><p>Alphabet is complying with CNIL's rulings. It might adjust its Gmail and cookie practices. But its basic business model of monetising user data through personalised advertising is not going to change. The fines are not large enough to alter financial incentives for Google. Till that happens, even if the fines make headlines, they will change nothing for Alphabet.</p>

France fined Google €325 million for pushing ads on Gmail without user consent, but the penalty amounts to just 0.25% of Alphabet’s quarterly revenue. Google's massive profits make these costs negligible. That's the cost of doing business

France’s data protection authority, the Commission Nationale de l’Informatique et des Libertés (CNIL), has fined Google €325 million (around $381 million) for displaying ads to Gmail users without their consent, and placing ad-tracking cookies without proper user opt-in. This is a violation of privacy laws. But the fines are nothing more than a rap on the wrist for Google, whose revenue from the European Union area is so high that it could be compared to the cost of buying pizza or toll tax for an average company. Here is why. What did French watchdog say about Gmail privacy issue? CNIL found that Gmail users were shown ads directly within their inboxes, violating EU's ePrivacy Directive and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The authority also slammed Google’s practice of pre-setting cookie preferences during the account creation process, effectively bypassing user choice, opt-in or opt-out. Google has been asked to make changes within six months in the CNIL order of Wednesday (Se 3). It must stop displaying ads in Gmail inboxes without prior user consent, and ensure that anyone making a new Google account shoule be explicity asked to agree to ad tracking before any data is collected or used for commercial targeting. Meta plans fourth AI restructure in six months Also read: Google SOLD! When an Indian man bought Google.com at $12, owned it for seconds, here's what happened next French watchdog has fined Google in past too This is not the first time CNIL took action against Google. It was fined €100 million in 2020 and €150 million in 2022, both for cookie consent violations. The issue was the lack of easily accessible option to refuse tracking cookies. But these penalties are dwarfed by how much Google makes in the European market. Also read: Meta plans fourth AI restructure in six months Why the fines are just cost of doing business for Google The fines, including the ‘record’ one slapped on Wednesday, are nothing more than the cost of doing business for Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company. It reported global (meaning non-US) revenue of $90.2 billion in the first quarter of 2025 alone, with net income reaching $34.5 billion. So the math of Wednesday fine of €325 million is: less than 0.25 percent of Alphabet’s quarterly global revenue. In other words, this amount is so small relative to its earnings that it barely registers as a material financial cost. Also read: From April 1, Indian govt can see your WhatsApp messages, emails. Here's what you need to know Fines are miniscule compared to Google's overall annual revenue from France and Europe In fact, if we examining Alphabet’s operations in France and the EU, the fines are even smaller, as France could be contributing up to €2 billion in annual revenue for Google mainly from digital advertising. But Alphabet’s profit-shifting practices and reliance on Ireland for European tax filings make exact figures opaque. At the European Union level, Alphabet likely earns €75–95 billion in annual revenue, with estimated profits of €19–24 billion. In that context, even a combined €450 million in fines levied by France between 2019 and 2024 represents less than 0.6 per cent of one year’s European revenue and no more than 2.4 per cent of annual profit. Also read: Google says EU digital rules stifle innovation, demands clarity For Google, the fines are a nuisance, not a deterrent Regulators across the world have been criticised for imposing small penalties on Google, akin to toll taxes for a truck company. These are annoying roadblocks, but can easily be absorbed into the cost of doing business at scale. It should be noted that the maximum fine permitted under GDPR is 4 per cent of a company’s global annual turnover. In Alphabet’s case, that could be €10 billion, at least in theory, based on recent revenue levels. Yet, CNIL has never approached that upper limit when fining the tech giant. Also read: 'I have failed you': Google’s Gemini AI deletes user's files, later apologises for ‘Catastrophic’ error French fine will not change the predatory advertising practices of Google Alphabet is complying with CNIL's rulings. It might adjust its Gmail and cookie practices. But its basic business model of monetising user data through personalised advertising is not going to change. The fines are not large enough to alter financial incentives for Google. Till that happens, even if the fines make headlines, they will change nothing for Alphabet.

<p>France fined Google €325 million for pushing ads on Gmail without user consent, but the penalty amounts to just 0.25% of Alphabet’s quarterly revenue. Google's massive profits make these costs negligible. That's the cost of doing business</p>

Google fined $381 mn for predatory Gmail advertising, but it's like toll tax for Alphabet, less than 0.25 pc of its global revenue

<p>As Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted Russian leader Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for a massive military parade on Wednesday (Sep 3), US President Donald Trump posted a message claiming that Americans had helped China achieve victory over Japan — which the parade was celebrating. For those unfamiliar with the history, it might have sounded like one of Trump’s exaggerations. But in this case, he happens to be right. Eighty years ago, in a very different world, the United States stood by China in its fight against Japanese aggression. Here is that story.</p><h2>What was the Chinese military parade celebrating?</h2><p>The Chinese military parade marked the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II. President Xi hosted a number of world leaders, including Putin and Kim, as China showcased some of its latest weapon systems and commemorated its role in defeating Japanese imperial forces.</p><p>Amid this, Trump highlighted a lesser-known chapter in US-China relations. He said the United States gave “massive” support and shed “blood” to help China secure its freedom from a “very unfriendly foreign invader.” He criticised China’s current leadership for failing to acknowledge American support during the celebrations.</p><p>“Will Xi mention the MASSIVE amount of American support... Will he honour the MANY Americans who died?” Trump wrote.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ww2-b29-superfortress-most-expensive-weapon-costlier-nuclear-bomb-1756819959777"><strong>Also read: B-29 Bomber: Costliest weapon of World War II, costlier than the nuclear bomb</strong></a></p><h2>The forgotten front: how American soldiers helped China fight Japan during World War II</h2><p>The story begins in 1937, when Japan invaded China, beginning the Second Sino-Japanese War. At the time, China was a poor and fragmented country, facing a ruthless and technologically superior enemy. Japanese forces bombed Chinese cities, massacred civilians, and occupied vast swathes of Chinese territory. China resisted largely alone for several years, until the United States entered World War II following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941.</p><p>From then on, the United States became a major ally of China, offering not only military and economic aid but also manpower and expertise in what became one of the most consequential and devastating theatres of the war.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-victory-parade-will-mark-surrender-of-japan-during-world-war-ii-1756384582813/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-victory-parade-will-mark-surrender-of-japan-during-world-war-ii-1756384582813/embed</a></p><h2>American billions helped a bruised China</h2><p>The United States provided over $1.6 billion in Lend-Lease aid to China between 1941 and 1945 — a staggering sum at the time, equivalent to over $25 billion today. The aid included aircraft, vehicles, ammunition, food supplies, and equipment. Several US military advisers were stationed in China to support and train the Nationalist forces led by Chiang Kai-shek. This support came despite the internal conflict between the Chinese Nationalists and the Communists. The two factions often clashed even as they both fought against the Japanese invaders.</p><h2>The Flying Tigers: American pilots who defended China’s skies</h2><p>One of the most iconic symbols of American support during this period was the Flying Tigers — officially known as the American Volunteer Group (AVG). Comprising around 300 American pilots and ground crew, the Flying Tigers flew combat missions against Japanese aircraft from 1941 to 1942, often outnumbered and under-resourced.</p><p>Formed before the United States formally entered the war, the Flying Tigers became legends in both China and America. They are credited with destroying nearly 300 Japanese aircraft and played a critical role in defending Chinese territory from aerial assault.</p><h2>The China-Burma-India Theatre: a gruelling campaign in which American troops supported China</h2><p>While most Americans are familiar with battles such as Normandy and Iwo Jima, fewer know about the China-Burma-India (CBI) Theatre — one of the most challenging fronts of World War II. Around 250,000 American troops served in the CBI Theatre over the course of the war. They built infrastructure such as the Ledo Road to reconnect China with Allied supply lines, trained Chinese troops, and engaged Japanese forces in the dense jungles of Burma.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-unstoppable-china-s-massive-military-parade-brings-xi-putin-and-kim-together-in-rare-show-of-unity-against-west-1756864172260"><strong>'Unstoppable' China's massive military parade brings Xi, Putin and Kim together in rare show of unity against West</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Units like Merrill’s Marauders — a US Army long-range penetration force — carried out dangerous missions to reopen the Burma Road, which had been cut off by Japanese forces. Though these battles occurred far from the Chinese heartland, they were vital to sustaining China’s resistance.</p><h2>How many Americans died for China during the war against Japan?</h2><p>Trump’s claim that Americans gave their “blood” for China is not inaccurate. During the Flying Tigers’ operations, around 20–25 American personnel died in combat or accidents prior to 1942. In the wider China-Burma-India Theatre, approximately 1,600 Americans died — including those lost in combat, from disease, or in accidents. Of these, historians estimate that around 500 to 1,000 deaths were directly tied to China-related operations, including air missions over Chinese territory and logistical efforts in support of Chinese forces.</p><p>While small in comparison to the 405,000 American deaths during World War II, these sacrifices remain significant — particularly in a theatre often neglected in Western historical narratives.</p><h2>What did American military contributions mean for China?</h2><p>The US played a vital role in helping China resist complete collapse under Japanese occupation. American support helped disrupt Japanese supply lines, weakened Japan’s strategic posture, and eventually contributed to its defeat — particularly after the US dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945, prompting Japan’s surrender.</p><p>However, China’s liberation from Japan did not lead to peace. After the war, the Chinese Civil War resumed. By 1949, Mao Zedong’s Communist Party had seized control of the mainland, forcing the US-backed Nationalist government under Chiang Kai-shek to flee to Taiwan.</p><p>It is one of history’s many ironies that today’s People’s Republic of China — governed by the same Communist Party that played a relatively limited military role against Japan — now celebrates this victory, while the main burden of fighting during the war was borne by Nationalist forces, often with direct American support.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-china-victory-day-military-parade-live-updates-xi-jinping-putin-kim-jong-un-latest-1756866102561/amp"><strong>‘Say hi to Putin and Kim as you plot against US’: Trump’s sarcastic jab at Xi on China’s Victory Day - Is the US president paranoid or just bitter?</strong></a></p><h2>So, is Trump right about American contributions to China's defeat of Japan?</h2><p>Mostly yes. While the tone of Trump’s Truth Social post was politically confrontational, the historical foundation of his claim is accurate. With that post, Trump drew attention to a neglected aspect of the Second World War — the extent to which American personnel, resources, and sacrifice helped China resist and eventually overcome Japanese aggression.</p><p>As US-China tensions continue to rise in the modern era, Trump’s reference serves as a reminder that today’s geopolitical adversaries were once, however briefly, allies — brothers in arms in a war that shaped the modern world.<br>&nbsp;</p>

It might surprise some, but Trump’s claim that American ‘blood’ and aid helped China defeat a foreign enemy is largely accurate. The US did give billions in support, flew combat missions, and lost lives aiding China’s resistance. 

As Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted Russian leader Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for a massive military parade on Wednesday (Sep 3), US President Donald Trump posted a message claiming that Americans had helped China achieve victory over Japan — which the parade was celebrating. For those unfamiliar with the history, it might have sounded like one of Trump’s exaggerations. But in this case, he happens to be right. Eighty years ago, in a very different world, the United States stood by China in its fight against Japanese aggression. Here is that story. What was the Chinese military parade celebrating? The Chinese military parade marked the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II. President Xi hosted a number of world leaders, including Putin and Kim, as China showcased some of its latest weapon systems and commemorated its role in defeating Japanese imperial forces. Amid this, Trump highlighted a lesser-known chapter in US-China relations. He said the United States gave “massive” support and shed “blood” to help China secure its freedom from a “very unfriendly foreign invader.” He criticised China’s current leadership for failing to acknowledge American support during the celebrations. “Will Xi mention the MASSIVE amount of American support... Will he honour the MANY Americans who died?” Trump wrote. Also read: B-29 Bomber: Costliest weapon of World War II, costlier than the nuclear bomb The forgotten front: how American soldiers helped China fight Japan during World War II The story begins in 1937, when Japan invaded China, beginning the Second Sino-Japanese War. At the time, China was a poor and fragmented country, facing a ruthless and technologically superior enemy. Japanese forces bombed Chinese cities, massacred civilians, and occupied vast swathes of Chinese territory. China resisted largely alone for several years, until the United States entered World War II following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. From then on, the United States became a major ally of China, offering not only military and economic aid but also manpower and expertise in what became one of the most consequential and devastating theatres of the war. https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-victory-parade-will-mark-surrender-of-japan-during-world-war-ii-1756384582813/embed American billions helped a bruised China The United States provided over $1.6 billion in Lend-Lease aid to China between 1941 and 1945 — a staggering sum at the time, equivalent to over $25 billion today. The aid included aircraft, vehicles, ammunition, food supplies, and equipment. Several US military advisers were stationed in China to support and train the Nationalist forces led by Chiang Kai-shek. This support came despite the internal conflict between the Chinese Nationalists and the Communists. The two factions often clashed even as they both fought against the Japanese invaders. The Flying Tigers: American pilots who defended China’s skies One of the most iconic symbols of American support during this period was the Flying Tigers — officially known as the American Volunteer Group (AVG). Comprising around 300 American pilots and ground crew, the Flying Tigers flew combat missions against Japanese aircraft from 1941 to 1942, often outnumbered and under-resourced. Formed before the United States formally entered the war, the Flying Tigers became legends in both China and America. They are credited with destroying nearly 300 Japanese aircraft and played a critical role in defending Chinese territory from aerial assault. The China-Burma-India Theatre: a gruelling campaign in which American troops supported China While most Americans are familiar with battles such as Normandy and Iwo Jima, fewer know about the China-Burma-India (CBI) Theatre — one of the most challenging fronts of World War II. Around 250,000 American troops served in the CBI Theatre over the course of the war. They built infrastructure such as the Ledo Road to reconnect China with Allied supply lines, trained Chinese troops, and engaged Japanese forces in the dense jungles of Burma. Also read: 'Unstoppable' China's massive military parade brings Xi, Putin and Kim together in rare show of unity against West Units like Merrill’s Marauders — a US Army long-range penetration force — carried out dangerous missions to reopen the Burma Road, which had been cut off by Japanese forces. Though these battles occurred far from the Chinese heartland, they were vital to sustaining China’s resistance. How many Americans died for China during the war against Japan? Trump’s claim that Americans gave their “blood” for China is not inaccurate. During the Flying Tigers’ operations, around 20–25 American personnel died in combat or accidents prior to 1942. In the wider China-Burma-India Theatre, approximately 1,600 Americans died — including those lost in combat, from disease, or in accidents. Of these, historians estimate that around 500 to 1,000 deaths were directly tied to China-related operations, including air missions over Chinese territory and logistical efforts in support of Chinese forces. While small in comparison to the 405,000 American deaths during World War II, these sacrifices remain significant — particularly in a theatre often neglected in Western historical narratives. What did American military contributions mean for China? The US played a vital role in helping China resist complete collapse under Japanese occupation. American support helped disrupt Japanese supply lines, weakened Japan’s strategic posture, and eventually contributed to its defeat — particularly after the US dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945, prompting Japan’s surrender. However, China’s liberation from Japan did not lead to peace. After the war, the Chinese Civil War resumed. By 1949, Mao Zedong’s Communist Party had seized control of the mainland, forcing the US-backed Nationalist government under Chiang Kai-shek to flee to Taiwan. It is one of history’s many ironies that today’s People’s Republic of China — governed by the same Communist Party that played a relatively limited military role against Japan — now celebrates this victory, while the main burden of fighting during the war was borne by Nationalist forces, often with direct American support. Also read: ‘Say hi to Putin and Kim as you plot against US’: Trump’s sarcastic jab at Xi on China’s Victory Day - Is the US president paranoid or just bitter? So, is Trump right about American contributions to China's defeat of Japan? Mostly yes. While the tone of Trump’s Truth Social post was politically confrontational, the historical foundation of his claim is accurate. With that post, Trump drew attention to a neglected aspect of the Second World War — the extent to which American personnel, resources, and sacrifice helped China resist and eventually overcome Japanese aggression. As US-China tensions continue to rise in the modern era, Trump’s reference serves as a reminder that today’s geopolitical adversaries were once, however briefly, allies — brothers in arms in a war that shaped the modern world.

<p>It might surprise some, but Trump’s claim that American ‘blood’ and aid helped China defeat a foreign enemy is largely accurate. The US did give billions in support, flew combat missions, and lost lives aiding China’s resistance.&nbsp;</p>

‘American blood’ helped China defeat foreign Invader? Trump happens to be right on that. ‘Flying Tigers,’ Burma front and forgotten US sacrifice

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Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.