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Analysis

59 results

 

Online data privacy – is the genie already out of the bottle?

Rachel Catanach examines whether the recent controversy surrounding Octopus Holdings in Hong Kong threatens a new wave of action against those who breach data protection legislation in the region

August 23, 2010

 

The changing of the guard

Eon Consulting's Jojo Lacanilao assesses which direction incoming Philippines' President Noy Noy Aquino will take the country 

July 06, 2010

 

The Gold Standard mark of distinction

Craig Hoy offers a preview of the 2010 Gold Standard Awards as PublicAffairsAsia launches the programme's new website

July 06, 2010

 

Scoring goals in a fast moving year

As the latest edition of PublicAffairsAsia magazine is published Craig Hoy charts the opportunities and challenges presented by 2010 thus far

June 23, 2010

 

Preparing the ground now

Responding to the 2010 State of the Industry report, Emma Dale says consultancy CEOs should use its findings to develop coherent and localised recruitment strategies which build capacity for future growth

June 07, 2010

 

Challening complex conversations

Alan VanderMolen says the PublicAffairsAsia State of the Industry report underlines the need for corporations to be engaged at all levels of the increasingly complex stakeholder debate in Asia

June 07, 2010

 

Influence in Korea's rapidly changing communications environment

Public communications strategies in Korea are being influenced more and more by transparency and openness, finds Fleishman-Hillard's Yvonne Park (pictured) and Byoung-Joo Kim in this exclusive Thought Leaders article

May 31, 2010

 

Coalition building and advocacy: Five thoughts to ponder

Building an effective, engaging and inclusive coalition can often be a critical factor in driving change in the advocacy arena, says News Corporation's Asia government relations chief Joe Welch

April 23, 2010

 

Avoiding further Thai bloodshed at all costs

As Thailand stands on the brink of a social catastrophe, the Asian Human Rights Commission implores the government and the military to step back from the brink and find a negotiated settlement with rival political groups

April 23, 2010

 

The case for cautious optimism in China

John Holden reviews the 2010 National People's Congress and concludes that MNCs can draw some assurance from the Beijing mood music

April 16, 2010

 

The PR perspective

From his Shanghai vantage point, Weber Shandwick’s Darren Burns offers a PR insider’s account of the strategic comms opportunities at the upcoming Shanghai Expo 2010

March 11, 2010

 

Expo Fever: The Politic Approach

Hill & Knowlton's David Zhao says the Shanghai Expo can be leveraged to deliver meaningful government relations outcomes in China

March 11, 2010

 

The corporate affairs learning curve

The practice of corporate public affairs in India is becoming ever more global in outlook, with organisations required to be in touch with the increasingly complex stakeholder community, argues Sukanti Ghosh

February 26, 2010

 

The Government Affairs Forum: Tigers and nationalism

Nationalism is likely to be the primary problem confronting foreign MNCs operating in China and the US, Yuan Haiying predicts in the latest Government Affairs Forum, published as the Year of the Tiger roars into being

February 22, 2010

 

Mining matters to a better future

Mitchell H Hooke says Australia's mineral industry has identified strong CSR as essential to success - and stands ready to apply those lessons in an Asian context

February 01, 2010

 

All politics is still local

Dan Baxter stresses how a global public affairs strategy has to be made local and explains how to make your public affairs strategy relevant in China

January 29, 2010

 

The integration intersection

The emergence of an integrated Asia Pacific community of nations has arrived at a cross roads and the future direction could lie in China's hands, suggests Hans Vriens

November 27, 2009

 

Corporate culture in emerging markets

Vu Tu Thanh, the Vietnam representative of the US-ASEAN Business Council, outlines the government relations challenges confronting Western businesses as they strike into Asia’s emerging markets

November 27, 2009

 

The China Government Affairs Forum: November 2009

The government plays a central role in corporate China - and at no time moreso than during a crisis. In the latest PublicAffairsAsia China Government Affairs Forum, our panel members analyse how to work with government during a crisis scenario. Catherine Van Way and Qu Hong open the discussion

November 25, 2009

 

Bridging the Gulf

Jolyon Kimble reflects on political dialogue in the Gulf and concludes that public affairs professionals require a different approach when seeking outcomes in the Middle East

November 16, 2009

 

The PAA China Government Affairs Forum

In the latest Government Affairs Forum discussion we ask the PublicAffairsAsia panel members to examine tactics and strategies for monitoring and lobbying the legislative and regulatory agenda in China. Yuan Haiying joins the latest discussion

October 29, 2009

 

Public affairs matters - and more

As the latest edition of PublicAffairsAsia is published and the Gold Standard nominations process continues, Craig Hoy looks at public affairs, crisis communications and the case for corporate diplomacy

October 08, 2009

 

The China Government Affairs Forum

In the latest comment on the Government Affairs Forum, Burson-Marsteller's Qu Hong and China PA expert Yuan Haiying offer their advice on strategies when engaging with decision-makers in Beijing

September 30, 2009

 

The PAA China Government Affairs Forum

In the second PublicAffairsAsia Government Affairs Forum, a selection of panel members are examining the process of identifying and engaging with stakeholders and decision-makers in China. This week Cummins Inc's Catherine Van Way adds her views about how to locate those targets essential to a successful public affairs strategy

August 21, 2009

 

Making the grade in the Middle East

The Middle East remains a market of huge potential for inward investors and innovators. But only if they observe protocol, localise talent and understand the importance of getting it right first time, says Hesham Wahby

August 14, 2009

 

The era of interconnectivity

As the latest edition of PublicAffairsAsia magazine is published, Craig Hoy says that government affairs, corporate communications and public policy are becoming increasingly interconnected in Asia

June 24, 2009

 

Closing the engagement gap

Corporations are missing out by failing to connect with Asia’s increasingly active multilateral institutions, says Monsanto's Shanti Shamdasani

June 12, 2009

 

An institutional makeover

As the European Union prepares to elect a new parliament in Brussels. Waggener Edstrom's Herman Schepers examines the institutional challenges which lie ahead

June 01, 2009

 

Grappling with piracy

Roland Chan suggests Asia's IT ecosystems are being undermined by the on-going problem of widespread computer piracy

May 15, 2009

 

Reporting the Obama factor

As Barack Obama passes his 100th day in office, Media Monitors' John Croll charts how the Asian media is responding to his leadership

May 02, 2009

 

Maintaining truth and perspective

As global governments and commerce brace themselves for a possible flu pandemic, Craig Hoy assesses how professional communicators balance transparency with the need to maintain calm in times of crisis

April 28, 2009

 

A new era of creative engagement

Following a recent trip to Washington DC John Holden says business should prepare for an enhanced relationship between the US and China

April 24, 2009

 

Doing more with less

As marketing falls victim to the global slowdown Terence Lyons examines how PR and PA professionals can step up to the challenge of protecting corporate reputation

April 16, 2009

 

How comms could call the election

Public Relations and social media could have a decisive part to play in the battle of ideas which will determine the outcome of India's general election, says Dilip Cherian

April 03, 2009

 

Before the disaster strikes

A developed and on-going crisis communications strategy is a vital part of the risk management and business continuity planning mix, suggests Damian Coory

March 27, 2009

 

When the storm passes

Writing in the cover feature of the latest edition of PublicAffairsAsia, Manuel Rybach suggests that the practice of corporate public affairs will emerge altered, and perhaps stronger, when the world finally resolves the global financial crisis

March 27, 2009

 

The role of PA in times of crisis

Monday sees the publication of the latest edition of PublicAffairsAsia magazine and the PA Industry in 2009 Report. Craig Hoy offers an insight into the comment and content contained in the latest publications

March 06, 2009

 

The need for union engagement

Chris Devonshire-Ellis suggests that Chinese labour laws mean employers facing troubled times should be actively engaging with unions before determining their next move

February 20, 2009

 

Smoke signals from Japan

The Japanese government must develop a national policy and raise its PR game if the country is to secure the foreign direct investment it both wants and needs, suggests James Weeks

February 13, 2009

 

Communication or conversation?

Dr Hilary Armstrong suggests that top-level professional communicators may not be hitting the mark when it comes to everyday conversations with colleagues and clients 

January 22, 2009

 

Changing years, changing China

The year of the Rat was one of change and crises for China. Weber Shandwick VP John Russell examines what the year of the Ox might have in store for a country getting to grips with the ups – and downs – of globalisation

January 22, 2009

 

China's internet revolution

New data has revealed that China's internet population is still soaring and, says Jeremy Woolf, this presents new challenges for public affairs and communications professionals

January 16, 2009

 

Will the trust fund run dry?

Trust is a commodity in short supply and, warns Alan VanderMolen, 2009 could see tougher times ahead for government and the private sector

December 19, 2008

 

Time for responsible government

Individual social responsibility and a sense of government social responsibility could combine to deliver a better and more harmonious Thai society, suggests Danai Chanchaochai

December 19, 2008

 

From green terrorists to positive book value?

Reflecting on experience in Asia and Europe, Andy Roby examines NGOs' role in a modern business environment

December 04, 2008

 

Emerging from the shadows

As the first edition of PublicAffairsAsia is published, Craig Hoy explains how the practice of public affairs and government relations is becoming more transparent in Asia

November 28, 2008

 

Saviours or carpetbaggers?

Asia stands ready for significant investment in US and European markets. Glenn Schloss outlines how to win the communications battle at a time of suspicion and unease

November 19, 2008

 

A view from the coalface

Liam Benham says public affairs in Asia is complex and time consuming: but he is certain that the discipline is becoming more prevalent and transparent

November 12, 2008

 

Developing localised leadership

Procter and Gamble's Erik Jonnaert defines the key differences between practising corporate public affairs in Asia and the West

October 27, 2008

 

The virtues of lobbying

As his book on global lobbying is published, Lionel Zetter says public affairs is a necessary part of the decision making process – regardless of a country’s political make-up

October 16, 2008

 

A disaster waiting to happen

The US-Indian agreement for nuclear cooperation amounts to a non-proliferation disaster says Daryl G. Kimball

October 10, 2008

 

Trust in the engagement process

Stakeholder engagement is vital amid an increase in the expectations of customers, the media, government, employees, NGOs and trade bodies, says Edelman's Bob Grove 

September 30, 2008

 

India's fatalistic complex

Rajiv Desai suggests the response to the Indian terror attacks reveals a much deeper political breach between the people and their political masters

September 19, 2008

 

Open Letter: Why India must criminalise prostitution

Taina Bien-Aime says India must criminalise buyers of prostitution as a way of ending sex trafficking, child prostitution, commercial sexual exploitation and the spread of Aids

September 02, 2008

 

Time for Rudd to reverse on India

In an exclusive article for PublicAffairsAsia, Australia's shadow foreign minister Andew Robb says the Rudd government must reverse its decision to block the sale of uranium to India

August 25, 2008

 

Open Letter: A collective bargain

New labour laws and a shift towards union recognition represent a sea change in Chinese workers' rights, says Geoffrey Crothall

August 25, 2008

 

The new China strategy

Senior US policymakers Jonathan Winer and Don Riegle say Chinese investors seeking to enter US markets must build a broad community of support if they are to overcome local resistance

August 19, 2008

 

Filling the information vacuum

Social media played a vital role in the aftermath of the Sichuan earthquake. Timothy Coombs assesses how companies and government should use new media as a tool in crisis communications

August 18, 2008

 

Open Letter: Time to end software piracy

Software piracy costs jobs and damages economic prospects and should be tackled internationally and by regional Asian governments, says Jeff Hardee

August 17, 2008


Feature

47 results

 

The China Opportunity

British business is looking East as the United Kingdom grapples with economic troubles at home. Craig Hoy talks to Stephen Phillips about the process of demystifying doing business in China

August 31, 2010

 

The ASEAN opportunity

As he takes the helm at APCO in Singapore, Garry Walsh tells Craig Hoy that he will be looking to put strategic development at the heart of APCO's South East Asia strategy

June 23, 2010

 

Indonesia's G-20 coming of age

Shanti Shamdasani examines how Indonesia is seeking to use global engagement as a means to take its place on the world stage

June 21, 2010

 

The rapid rise of Asia's PA industry

Irwin Hankins says the 2010 State of the Industry Report highlights the development of the PA industry in Asia - and a marked increase in the significance of Asian corporations, SOEs and governments

June 07, 2010

 

The PA prescription

Elizabeth Hernandez tells Mark O'Brien that global pharmaceutical companies must reach out to governments if they are to deliver the right solution to Asia's healthcare ills

May 03, 2010

 

Facing up to the new world order

Globalisation brings challenges and opportunities which have to be confronted by public affairs professionals, suggests Qu Hong

April 16, 2010

 

Shanghai's Expo Factor

The Shanghai Expo represents a further opportunity to showcase China globally, and let the world access China’s markets. Craig Hoy reflects on the opportunities at the biggest show on earth

March 12, 2010

 

10 Top Tips for Capacity Building

In the latest of our 10 Top Tips series, PublicAffairsAsia examines how PA professionals can develop a more resilient, pro-active, government and public affairs capacity

February 11, 2010

 

The Gold Standard: Ryan Gawn

As PublicAffairsAsia prepares to present The Gold Standard Award for Political Communications, Prasant Naik, former country director of Save the Children UK Afghanistan, offers his nomination for shortlisted charity campaigner and PA figure Ryan Gawn

January 15, 2010

 

The Gold Standard: Abhisit Vejjajiva

Abhisit Vejjajiva, prime minister of Thailand, has grappled with internal political, economic and and social strife whilst effectively communicating with the outside world, Sebastian Beaumont of The Marque Consulting Group in Bangkok says in his Gold Standard Award nomination

January 15, 2010

 

The new frontiers

The fundamentals of the corporate rulebook have been altered by the global financial crisis, APCO's chief executive officer Margery Kraus tells PublicAffairsAsia's Craig Hoy

January 04, 2010

 

The long-term plans for President Obama

Doug Paal uses a question and answer session to explain that President Obama is trying to tackle bigger, long-term issues, including the financial crisis and its aftermath,nonproliferation and climate change

November 16, 2009

 

Setting an Islamic standard

Islamic finance stands at a crossroads - with the political and legal debate now focusing on whether to standardise or not. In a special feature Muhammad Abdullah Al-Harth Sinclair and Maher Ghanma analyse the key political, legal and regulatory challenges involved in successfully developing Islamic finance as an engine of global economic growth

October 16, 2009

 

A diplomatic mission

Former US ambassador Ralph “Skip” Boyce is a figure known to many power-brokers and business leaders in Asia. In his current role as Boeing’s ASEAN president he says the tricks of the diplomatic trade are proving useful, Mark O'Brien discovers

October 05, 2009

 

Japan: An era of lobbying beckons?

As Japan prepares for a new government, senior public affairs practitioners John Sunley and Shin Tanaka offer two perspectives on the challenges which lie ahead

September 04, 2009

 

Rewriting the reputation management playbook

In an age where corporate reputation is everything, Neal Horwitz looks at complexities of defending a company's image in a new world order

August 21, 2009

 

Changing course with China

Tom Grimmer tells Craig Hoy that an infectious enthusiam for China, investment banking and the corporate public relations world are the driving forces in the next stage of his professional journey

August 07, 2009

 

Burning China's media rulebook

As blogs challenge traditional media platforms in China, David McNeill speaks to Jeremy Goldkorn, the Beijing-based media entrepreneur whose danwei website is redefining news dissemination

July 09, 2009

 

Lobbying: A world of difference

Lobbyist turned academic Conor McGrath takes a global look at lobbying and finds a wide variation in practices among interest groups and corporate public affairs professionals

July 01, 2009

 

Election puts Congress in charge

The Indian election sets the course for more decisive governance in a country often held back by bureaucracy, says Mark Runacres

May 29, 2009

 

President Obama's Statement in Full

Announcing Jon Huntsman as his ambassador to China, President Barack Obama said the appointment underlined the growing importance of Sino-US relations

May 17, 2009

 

Swine Flu: Top level advice

As corporations and governments respond to the swine flu epidemic, PublicAffairsAsia asks a cross-section of senior practitioners for their advice on communicating through a public health scare

April 29, 2009

 

The paradigm shift in healthcare PR

In a theoretical overview Enakshi Kapur details the radical changes to healthcare PR and public affairs across Asia

April 17, 2009

 

Why it's time to prove your worth

With every element of corporate expenditure under review, Mark O'Brien says evaluation and measurement will become critical tools to defend communications and public affairs budgets

April 10, 2009

 

The trade mission

Ziena Jalil is responsible for developing New Zealand's trade image in North Asia. Global communications is about listening and learning, she tells Craig Hoy

April 02, 2009

 

Industry survey: The Growth Curve

As "The PA Industry in 2009" report is published, Mark O'Brien looks at some of its key findings for the consultancy sector

March 09, 2009

 

10 Top Tips on influencing outcomes

Influencing outcomes in Asia can be complex and fraught with unexpected twists and turns. PublicAffairsAsia's latest edition offers 10 top tips for public affairs professionals

March 06, 2009

 

Why uncertainty means more regulation

China is turning to increased regulation of foreign-owned companies. Andy Scott assesses the pitfalls facing companies tempted to "walk away" from their Chinese businesses

February 20, 2009

 

China's communications challenge

Sound public affairs and solid communications will prove essential if China is to effectively navigate 2009, suggests Craig Hoy

January 09, 2009

 

Not so virtual after all

Hope Ewing believes social media can play a vital part in an effective public affairs strategy; but only if you nurture virtual relations as if they were face-to-face

December 05, 2008

 

Why China matters

Weber Shandwick global chairman Jack Leslie tells Craig Hoy that China is set to become a bigger player in global markets, world politics and the public affairs industry

November 21, 2008

 

Social media skills: You and YouTube

With Asia leading the expansion in social media, PublicAffairsAsia examines the issues confronting corporate communicators and public affairs professionals

October 29, 2008

 

CSR and the question of ownership

Ahead of the CSR Asia Summit in Bangkok, Craig Hoy asks Stephen Frost who owns corporate social responsibility in an Asian context?

October 17, 2008

 

Global risk and global opportunity

PublicAffairsAsia talks to APCO's CEO Margery Kraus amid global turmoil in the financial markets and her recent attendance at the World Economic Forum in China

October 04, 2008

 

Captains of industry

Forging links with industry groups, research bodies, trade associations and universities is vital in China's increasingly sophisticated decision-making process, says Christopher Dostal

September 19, 2008

 

Case study: The Sri Lankan fiscal reform programme

Bruno Carrasco explains how a partnership between the Asian Development Bank and the government of Sri Lanka delivered an effective reform programme for the country's creaking fiscal regime

September 09, 2008

 

Effective engagement in Australia

Foreign companies engaged with Australian government should be aware they are involved in an open, yet complicated, network of influence, says Shaun Drabsch

September 08, 2008

 

Case study: Whisky wins Gold

David Williamson explains how an 18 month concerted and multi-faceted public affairs campaign utilising British and Chinese influence won trademark protection for Scotch Whisky in China

September 03, 2008

 

Profile: Zaman Tambu

PublicAffairsAsia talks government relations, media and the service sector with Zaman Tambu, the larger than life managing director of Malaysia's Alpha Platform consultancy

September 02, 2008

 

Building alliances in times of tragedy

Jill Robinson, founder of the Animals Asia Foundation, explains how she mobilised support via government, NGOs and the public in aftermath of the Sichuan earthquake

September 01, 2008

 

The master story teller

Industry leader Al Golin tells Craig Hoy that the West has much to learn from Asia about the practices of effective corporate communications and reputation management

August 25, 2008

 

Profile: Hua Foley

Upstream Asia's managing director in Beijing, Hua Foley, tells PublicAffairsAsia that government relations in China is a complex matrix involving people, process, protocol and policy

August 25, 2008

 

High finance and high politics

Sebastian Vos says the situation confronting Sovereign Wealth Funds proves that communications has an increasingly important role to play in the world of corporate finance

August 17, 2008

 

Taking the brakes off India

Manmohan Singh's nuclear gamble paid off and may well just have broken the decision-making logjam which was frustrating politics and progress in India, says Mark Runacres

August 16, 2008

 

The importance of local knowledge

Making a move: PublicAffairsAsia provides some insight and advice for a Western practitioner making a move into the Asian Arena

August 04, 2008

 

Feeding the talent pool

The growth of public affairs talent is critical for the success of businesses in China, argues Tony Dickel

August 04, 2008

 

Opening doors in Asia

Craig Hoy tours Asia to discover what obstacles a Western public affairs professional will encounter in countries as diverse as Vietnam, China, and India

June 02, 2008


News

554 results

 

Hu Jintao declares Shenzen an economic miracle

Chinese President Hu Jintao has described the Shenzen special economic zone as "a miracle" as the country celebrates the city's 30th anniversary.

September 06, 2010

 

PublicAffairsAsia and Prospect to honour senior industry figure

PublicAffairsAsia and the Hong Kong based talent resource consultancy Prospect are set to recognise the work of one senior public affairs and corporate communications industry figure in a new category added to The 2010 Gold Standard Awards programme.

September 06, 2010

 

Hilton appoints new comms director

Hilton Worldwide today announced the appointment of Celina Low to the post of senior director of corporate communications for Asia Pacific.

September 06, 2010

 

Gilbert to head Weber Shandwick healthcare practice in Japan

Former World Bank policy expert and senior pharma industry figure Jeffrey Gilbert is to join Weber Shandwick in Japan where he will head its healthcare practice in Tokyo.

September 06, 2010

 

Nominations open for 2010 Gold Standard Awards

Nominations have opened for the 2010 Gold Standard Awards with a series of new categories and an expanded sponsors programme unveiled.

September 03, 2010

 

AmCham-China appoints new GA vice president

The American Chamber of Commerce in China (AmCham-China) has announced that Patrick Wang will be the chamber's next vice president of government relations.

September 02, 2010

 

H&K appoints new Brussel's MD

Hill & Knowlton has announced that Thomas Tindemans is taking up the role of managing director of EU public affairs.

September 02, 2010

 

RICS Asia appoints head of comms

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) today announces that the appointment of Roy Ying as the new head of communications of RICS Asia.

September 01, 2010

 

Text 100 wins Fuji Xerox contract

Text 100 Sydney has been appointed as the public relations consultancy for Fuji Xerox Australia.

September 01, 2010

 

General Motors publishes US lobbying costs

General Motors spent $2.72 million in the second quarter lobbying the federal government, according to a disclosure report filed in Washington.

September 01, 2010

 

Australian Green MP backs Labour

Australian Green Party MP Adam Bandt has agreed to help the Labour Party form a minority Australian government.

September 01, 2010

 

RIM makes progress on BlackBerry ban

Research in Motion, the BlackBerry producer has managed to resolve the twin threat of a ban in Saudia Arabia and potentilly one in India.

August 31, 2010

 

New report says IPCC needs to change

An indpendent review has said that the the UN's climate science body, the IPCC needs stricter checks to prevent damage to the organisation's credibility.

August 31, 2010

 

India removes nuclear energy ban

A bill allowing the opening of India's US$150 billion civilian nuclear sector passed its final parliamentary stage on Monday after a controversial debate.

August 31, 2010

 

Weber Shandwick wins new China contract

ArvinMeritor, Inc., a global supplier to commercial truck, trailer and specialty original equipment manufacturers and certain aftermarkets, has chosen Weber Shandwick to launch a brand campaign in China following a competitive pitch.

August 30, 2010

 

Hernandez secures top GA role at Hewlett Packard

HP has announced that Elizabeth Hernandez has joined the company as the new vice president of government affairs for Asia Pacific and Japan.

August 27, 2010

 

PAA hosts crisis comms roundtable

PublicAffairsAsia, APCO and AmCham Singapore have co-hosted a roundtable to discuss the long term impact of the global financial crisis on corporate affairs and government relations strategies.

August 26, 2010

 

PublicAffairsAsia and News Corporation to honour diplomatic achievement

PublicAffairsAsia, in association with News Corporation, is set to honour the work done by Diplomatic Missions in the commercial and public affairs arena with a new Gold Standard Award.

August 26, 2010

 

Edholm appointed SVP corporate communications at Electrolux

Anders Edholm has been appointed SVP corporate communications and head of Group Staff Communications of AB Electrolux.

August 26, 2010

 

ADB predicts Asian middle class explosion

The Asian Development Bank has published a forecast predicting an explosion in the spending power of the middle class consumer.

August 19, 2010

 

Taiwan approves major trade deal

Taiwan's legislature has approved a major trade pact with China reducing tariffs on hundreds of of Chinese and Taiwanese products.

August 18, 2010

 

Boeing appoints new comms director

Boeing has announced that Allison Bone has been appointed to the role of communications director Australia-New Zealand.

August 17, 2010

 

Aquino to embrace social media

President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III and top government officials have launched a new website that allows the public to interact with them.

August 17, 2010

 

MS&L partners with Conservation International

MS&L Singapore has announced that it has been appointed the official communications partner for the non-profit organisation Conservation International Singapore, on a pro bono basis.

August 17, 2010

 

Chinese industry faces emissions crackdown

The authorities in eastern China have cut off electricity to more than 500 factories for a month after they failed to meet emission reduction targets.

August 16, 2010

 

RIM continues to lobby Indian government

Research in Motion (RIM) continued its discussions today with the Indian government on how to resolve demands for interception of its various services by security agencies.

August 16, 2010

 

Waggener Edstrom wins double IT contract

Waggener Edstrom has been named the agency of record for storage solutions provider Hitachi Data Systems (HDS) and application delivery networking specialist F5 Networks.

August 16, 2010

 

Ogilvy & Mather appoints new Hong Kong CEO

Ogilvy & Mather has announced the promotion of Adam O'Conor to the newly created role of chief executive officer of the Ogilvy Group in Hong Kong.

August 16, 2010

 

Fleishman-Hillard appoints new marketing head

Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has appointed Kitty Lee as regional marketing manager.

August 13, 2010

 

Myanmar poll date announced

Myanmar's first election in two decades will be held on November 7, the miltary government has announced.

August 13, 2010

 

Omnicom appoints comms VP

Omnicom Group has appointed Clara So to the position of director of corporate communications of Omnicom Group for Asia Pacific, India, Middle East and Africa.

August 04, 2010

 

Safeway appoints new government relations VP

The supermarket chain Safeway Inc., has announced the appointment of Jonathan Mayes to senior vice president of government relations, public affairs, corporate social responsibility and philanthropy.

August 04, 2010

 

CIT Group appoints new PA chief

The CIT Group, a leading provider of financing to small businesses and middle market companies, today announced the appointment of Margaret D. Tutwiler as executive vice president, head of communications, marketing and government relations effective August 2, 2010.

August 04, 2010

 

Peabody Energy appoints new government relations VP

Peabody Energy, the world's largest private coal company, has hired former Rio Tinto mining executive Michael Flannigan as vice president of international government relations.

August 03, 2010

 

2010 Gold Standard Awards formally launched

PublicAffairsAsia has formally launched the 2010 Gold Standard Awards - the only programme recognising global excellence in the field of Asia Pacific-related public affairs, corporate affairs and governmental communications.

August 02, 2010

 

UAE threatens to ban Blackberry use

Some services provided by Blackberry will be suspended in the United Arab Emirates on grounds of national security according to the UAE's telecoms regulator, TRA.

August 01, 2010

 

Kan pledges to avoid legal logjam

In a rare press conference on Friday, Japanese prime minister, Naoto Kan, has pledged to reduce wasteful spending, spend money to stimulate employment and reduce the number of legislators.

August 01, 2010

 

Waggener Edstrom appoints digital advocacy VP

Waggener Edstrom Worldwide has appointed Suzanne Zurn as vice president for digital advocacy based in Washington, D.C.

July 30, 2010

 

China to make publicity film

Two publicity films are to be made to boost China's image internationally.

July 30, 2010

 

Alcatel-Lucent appoints new Asia-Pacific PA chief

Communications technology company Alcatel-Lucent has announced the appointment of Elizabeth Aris to the newly created position of head of marketing, strategy and public affairs for Asia Pacific.

July 30, 2010

 

Fleishman-Hillard appoints new global comms MD

Fleishman-Hillard has appointed Stephanie Marchesi to the newly created role of managing director and senior partner, Global Integrated Marketing Communications.

July 28, 2010

 

Seoul wins top place in e-governance survey

Seoul City ranked first on the 2010 Rutgers Global E-Governance Survey, securing the position for the fourth year in a row.

July 28, 2010

 

Twitter founder celebrates success in Japan

Twitter chief executive Evan Williams celebrated the dramatic growth of the microblogging service he co-founded at a dinner event Friday with 500 Japanese fans and promised to learn from them.

July 27, 2010

 

Weber Shandwick backs Barcelona Principles

Weber Shandwick has announced its endorsement of the "Barcelona Principles" for effective public relations measurement.

July 27, 2010

 

Lobbying fees proposed in US Congress

A bill introduced in the US House of Representatives Judiciary Committee would impose fees on lobbyists, based on their number of clients.

July 27, 2010

 

Home appliance lobby hires new director

The US Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) has hired Jennifer E. Cleary as director of regulatory affairs, to supplement its government relations department with additional expertise.

July 27, 2010

 

US renewable energy lobby hires new VP

The American Council On Renewable Energy (ACORE) has announced that, Todd Foley, has joined the council in the role of senior vice president of policy and government relations.

July 27, 2010

 

PublicAffairsAsia holds anti-corruption roundtable

PublicAffairsAsia has hosted a high level roundtable for senior corporate figures in Thailand, which examined the National Anti Corruption Commission's ongoing efforts to reduce graft and increase transparency in the country.

July 26, 2010

 

US visit highlights strong bond with Thailand

Top US diplomat William Burns has stressed the crucial importance of US-Thai relations and said it was a key example of America's enduring commitment to the region.

July 26, 2010

 

Apple encounters PA and PR trouble in South Korea

The decision by Apple to drop the launch of its iPhone 4 from the South Korean market has drawn negative comment in the South Korean media and on the internet, following the company's failure to secure the necessary regulatory approval for the new product.

July 26, 2010

 

Bang PR appoints new MD

Singapore based consultancy, Bang PR has appointed Sally Chew to the role of managing directo replacing Jessie Ho who leaves the agency after three years.

July 26, 2010

 

Fox Japan seeks new licence

Fox Japan is trying to secure a second license for digital satellite broadcasts, which it plans to use for a National Geographic channel.

July 23, 2010

 

UNCTAD report shows China in FDI second place

The chances of China overtaking the United States as the top foreign direct investment (FDI) destination remains unlikely according to United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

July 23, 2010

 

HYCOR appoints new regulatory chief

HYCOR Biomedical, Inc., a manufacturer of in vitro diagnostic products for the global allergy, autoimmune and urinalysis markets has appointed Steve Johnson as director of quality and regulatory affairs.

July 23, 2010

 

Korean celebrities to promote G20 summit

Korean actress Han Hyo-joo, along with figure skater Kim Yuna and footballer Park Ji-sung, has been named publicity ambassador for the upcoming G20 summit, in Seoul on November 11 and 12.

July 23, 2010

 

Singapore's SMEs grew most in confidence says survey

A new HSBC survey shows Vietnam's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are among the most confident of SMEs in Asia and that Singapore's grew the most in confidence.

July 22, 2010

 

New healthcare initiative launched

THE National University of Singapore has launched a new initiative to improve public health and health-care delivery in Asia.

July 22, 2010

 

Vietnam calls for ASEAN energy action

Vietnam has called on Southeast Asian countries to consider using nuclear energy as Asia faces rising energy needs to fuel its economic growth.

July 22, 2010

 

Seoul Summit chief promises more inclusion

The chief organiser of the Group of 20 Seoul Summit has promised increased efforts to interact more actively with non-member states to ensure the meeting of leading economies represents the interests of a greater majority of the world.

July 21, 2010

 

EU to host major trade event in Shanghai

The European Commission said it will hold a two-day trade event at the Shanghai World Expo to showcase the importance of developing trade relations between the European Union and China.

July 21, 2010

 

Good Relations India launches PA function

Good Relations India (GRI), has promoted two of its key members of the management team, following the launch of its new PA service.

July 21, 2010

 

Burson-Marsteller appoints new US director

Burson-Marsteller has announced the appointment of Pete Havel as a director in the U.S. Public Affairs Practice.

July 20, 2010

 

Thai Korean tour points to investment advantages

The head of Thailand's leading investment agency, Atchaka Sibunruang, has been touring Seoul's business community highlighting the advantages of Korea investing in the Thai economy.

July 20, 2010

 

Chinese clampdown on dangerous cooking oil

The Chinese government has ordered food safety officials to crackdown on the supply "gutter oil" that is illegally skimmed from kitchen waste and resold.

July 20, 2010

 

Malaysian government accused of harrassing media

The NGO, Human Rights Watch has accused the Malaysian government of attempting to "browbeat the opposition press into silence" and called for an end to its oppressive publishing permit scheme.

July 19, 2010

 

Euro RSCG appoints new regional digital chief

Euro RSCG has named Daniel Lee as regional digital director, Southeast Asia for Euro RSCG 4D.

July 19, 2010

 

Chinese pharma sector set to boom

The production value of China's pharmaceutical industry is projected to grow at an average annual rate of 22% from 2010 to 2019, according to a report issued by the Southern Medicine Economic Research Institute (SMERI).

July 19, 2010

 

Indian drinks sector creates new lobbying body

Leading beverages companies in India have come together to form the Indian Beverage Association (IBA) to address common concerns faced by the sector.

July 19, 2010

 

Australian contest likely to be negative and close

Tony Abbott, the leader of the Australian opposition has criticised the prime minister, Julia Gillard, for calling a sudden general election, claiming that she had failed to establish her credentials before the electorate.

July 19, 2010

 

Chinese premier reassures foreign investors

Chinese prime minister, Wen Jiabao has tried to reassure foreign business leaders that China's investment climate was stable and that China would not stop the export of rare metals needed to manufacture computers and mobile phones.

July 19, 2010

 

Lee appoints new PR secretary

President Lee Myung-bak has named Hong Sang-pyo, the managing director of the cable news network YTN, as his new senior secretary for public relations.

July 16, 2010

 

US appoints new ambassador to Thailand

President Barack Obama has named Kristie Kenney as the new US ambassador to Thailand.

July 16, 2010

 

Waggener Edstrom appoints new senior VP

Waggener Edstrom Worldwide has hired Hannah Coan as a senior vice president.

July 15, 2010

 

Former EU commissioner joins Fleishman-Hillard advisory board

Fleishman-Hillard today announced that Guenter Verheugen has joined Fleishman-Hillard's International Advisory Board.

July 15, 2010

 

Fleishman-Hillard appoints new Japan MD

Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has announced the appointment of Yoichi Kinoshita as managing director and partner of its Tokyo operation.

July 15, 2010

 

UK foreign secretary calls for closer Anglo-Chinese ties

Britain's foreign secretary, William Hague, has called for the UK and China to be "partners" in economic growth.

July 15, 2010

 

Yau departs Citigate Dewe Rogerson for APCO Hong Kong

Citigate Dewe Rogerson's Sukyi Yau is to join APCO to lead its financial communication practice in Greater China.

July 15, 2010

 

Six Chinese cities top competiveness chart

Six Chinese cities are among the top 100 competitive cities in the world, according to a survey released by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS).

July 15, 2010

 

Senior US diplomat to visit region

William Burns, number three in the US State Department's hierarchy, will be visiting Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia and the Philippines over the next five days.

July 15, 2010

 

PublicAffairsAsia announces 2010 Gold Standard Awards

PublicAffairsAsia is this week announcing the timeline and categories for the 2010 Gold Standard Awards as the programme's website goes live.

July 14, 2010

 

Siva joins Edelman in KL

Raymond Siva has joined Edelman in Kuala Lumpur as managing director to build on the public relations firm's technology, healthcare and digital work.

July 14, 2010

 

Singapore boom continues

Singapore will become the world's fastest growing economy after the Singapore government upgraded its 2010 growth forecast to between 13 and fifteen per cent.

July 14, 2010

 

APCO makes IAC appointment

Yuli Ismartono, deputy chief editor of the English edition of TEMPO, a weekly news and current-affairs magazine based in Jakarta, has joined APCO Worldwide as a member of the company's International Advisory Council.

July 14, 2010

 

Chinese ease internet licences

The Chinese government has announced the abolition of special licences required of internet service providers before they could operate forums and chat rooms.

July 13, 2010

 

Business leaders call for major Thai reform

Foreign business leaders have called on the Thai government to make reform of the financial and telecom sectors top priorities and called for an end to interest rate discrimination in lending to large companies compared to small businesses and individuals.

July 13, 2010

 

Fleishman-Hillard wins G20 Seoul Business Summit

Fleishman-Hillard has been selected as the communications partner of The Seoul G20 Business Summit scheduled for this November.

July 12, 2010

 

Kan under pressure after election defeat

The Democratic Party of Japan has failed to win elections to the upper house and placed new pressure on prime minister Naoto Kan to resign.

July 12, 2010

 

China unveils new credit rating

A Chinese company has unveiled China's own sovereign credit rating report, for the first time evaluating 50 countries and becoming the first non-Western rating agency to assess the world's sovereign credit and risks.

July 12, 2010

 

Wilson Daniels appoints new PR director

Specialist wine company Wilson Daniels Ltd has. announces the appointment of April Sack as director of public relations .

July 12, 2010

 

APCO launches new reputation survey

APCO Worldwide has launched the first in a series of studies using its Return on Reputation Indicator, which aims to improve and protect corporate reputation.

July 10, 2010

 

Genesis BM appoints new PA head

Genesis Burson-Marsteller has appointed Rahul Sharma as president of its public affairs practice.

July 09, 2010

 

USEC appoints new GR director

USEC a leading global supplier of enriched uranium has appointmed Jim Howe as director of US government relations.

July 08, 2010

 

Edelman woos Tham Kok Wing in Singapore

Edelman has announced the appointment of Tham Kok Wing as South East Asia director of the firm's corporate practice in Singapore.

July 08, 2010

 

US tech lobby promotes policy VP

TechNet the political network of chief executive officers and senior management of leading U.S. technology companies has announce the promotion of Betsy Mulins to senior vice president for policy and political affairs.

July 06, 2010

 

Thailand extends emergency rule

The Thai government has extended a state of emergency in 19 provinces, including the capital Bangkok, because of fears of renewed violence.

July 06, 2010

 

McDonald's counteracts food claims

McDonald's has found itself in an Asian food safety communications scenario amid fresh reports of additives being added to its supply in China.

July 06, 2010

 

Royal Caribbean appoints new corp comms VP

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has appointed Michele Nadeem to the position of vice president of global corporate communications.

July 05, 2010

 

Fleishman-Hillard appoints new Singapore VP

Fleishman-Hillard has announced that Mark Lee will lead the firm's Singapore operations as senior vice president and will also oversee the firm's corporate and financial communications practice across Southeast Asia.

July 02, 2010

 

APCO launches new transport service

APCO Worldwide has launched a new service to assist with the smooth management of transport projects.

July 02, 2010

 

Japanese business confidence reaches two year high

Japanese business confidence has hit its highest level in two years according to a central bank survey.

July 01, 2010

 

Business leadership events remain strong says new survey

Senior executive participation at business leadership conferences has held steady or grown since the start of the global economic crisis, according to nearly three-quarters (73%) of external communications professionals surveyed online by global public relations firm Weber Shandwick and executive communications journal Vital Speeches of the Day.

June 30, 2010

 

Kreab Gavin Anderson appoints Tokyo partner

Kreab Gavin Anderson has announced the appointment of technology industry specialist, Joseph Schmidt, as partner in the firm’s Tokyo office.

June 29, 2010

 

APCO apoints former senior White House aide

Gordon Johndroe, former spokesman for the National Security Council and former White House deputy press secretary, has joined APCO Worldwide as a vice president in the Washington, D.C., office's government relations practice.

June 29, 2010

 

New Australian cabinet appointed

The new Australian prime minister, Julia Gillard, has announced her new cabinet with key posts at the treasury, finance ministry and resources ministry remaining unchanged.

June 28, 2010

 

Japanese campaign aims to cut CO2 emissions

The Japanese government has launched a campaign encouraging people to go to bed and get up extra earlier in an attempt to reduce household carbon dioxide emissions.

June 28, 2010

 

Chinese Communist Party membership grows

China's Communist Party membership has grown to 78 million people, an increase of two million people from 2008.

June 28, 2010

 

Moore joins APCO's advisory council

The former US assistant secretary of commerce for trade development, James P Moore, has joined APCO Worldwide as a senior counselor and member of the company's International Advisory Council (IAC).

June 24, 2010

 

Hill & Knowlton appoints Australian MD

Hill & Knowlton has appointed Marcus Warner as managing director, Australia.

June 24, 2010

 

New research shows consumer discontent

New research from Euro RSCG Worldwide indicates a possible shift in consumer values and attitudes as people begin to radically rethink their values and lifestyles.

June 24, 2010

 

Euro RSCG makes Asia Pacific changes

Euro RSCG has appointed Juan Rocamora to be the new chairman of Euro RSCG Asia Pacific.

June 24, 2010

 

Financial Dynamics announces merger amid new focus on China

FD Third Person, the Australian part of Financial Dynamics, is to be merged with FD Asia.

June 24, 2010

 

New measurement rules adopted in Barcelona

The second European Summit on Measurement has reached agreement on the principles underlying the effective measurement of communications activity.

June 23, 2010

 

Kreab Gavin Anderson hires senior fund manager

Kreab Gavin Anderson has announced the appointment of former fund manager Kevin Smith as a senior adviser to the firm in Asia.

June 22, 2010

 

PAA and Fleishman host senior roundtable

PublicAffairsAsia has hosted a top-level roundtable in Hong Kong as part of the The Gold Standard Awards knowledge exchange series.

June 21, 2010

 

Australian government pre-empts media lobby

The Australian government has moved to head off intense media lobbying ahead of the election by calling on a review of the future of Australia Network, the international broadcasting service.

June 21, 2010

 

Bhopal report to be submitted to Indian PM

Corporate affairs executives are watching closely as the Indian government today receives a report into the Bhopal disaster

June 21, 2010

 

Walsh to lead APCO in South East Asia

APCO Worldwide has announced Garry Walsh as managing director of its South East Asia region as the company looks to develop its ASEAN business.

June 15, 2010

 

Edelman hires former Obama adviser

Michael Slaby, former technology and new media advisor to the White House and chief technology officer for “Obama for America,” has been appointed executive vice president and global practice chair of Edelman's digital practice.

June 11, 2010

 

Japanese postal minister resigns over reform

Japanese postal reform minister Shizuka Kamei has announced his resignation in a dispute over postal privatisation.

June 11, 2010

 

Google warns over Vietnamese internet crackdown

Google has expressed concern regarding new regulations in Vietnam that will allow the government to restrict web access and track user behaviour.

June 11, 2010

 

Weber Shandwick appoints new EU chief

Weber Shandwick has announced the appointment of Ana Costillas to lead its European Union public affairs arm.

June 11, 2010

 

New report says AIG bailout had a "poisonous" effect

The US Congressional Oversight Panel has said it is not certain that the US$182 billion bailout of the American International Group will ever be fully recovered.

June 10, 2010

 

IMF chief warns of increased economic risks

Risks to the global economic outlook have "risen significantly," according to International Monetary Fund Deputy Managing Director, Naoyuki Shinohara.

June 10, 2010

 

Chinese aviation lobby criticises EU tax plan

China's aviation lobby has attacked the European Union's proposed carbon tax on flights to and from the European Union that will come in to effect from 2012.

June 09, 2010

 

New entry into Australian PA arena

A team of political advisers and journalists has established a new public affairs and strategic communications firm in Australia, the CBC Group.

June 08, 2010

 

Rowland enlarges Brisbane team

Australian corporate communications consultancy Rowland has made three senior appointments.

June 07, 2010

 

Vriens & Partners opens Vietnam operation

Singapore-based PA consultancy Vriens & Partners has started operating in Vietnam offering a range of services including government relations, CSR and stakeholder communications strategies.

June 07, 2010

 

Asia rapidly becoming strategically more important to global consultancies

Business generated by Asian corporations, SOEs and government bodies is rapidly becoming strategically more important to global public affairs and public relations consultancies operating in the region, the 2010 PublicAffairsAsia State of the Industry Survey reports today.

June 07, 2010

 

Naoto Kan becomes new Japanese PM

Former Japanese finance minister Naoto Kan has been confirmed as the new prime minister following a parliamentary vote.

June 04, 2010

 

British Airways apologises over Bin Laden gaffe

British Airways has apologised after a photograph in a staff magazine showed a frequent flyer boarding pass in the name of Osama Bin Laden.

June 04, 2010

 

APCO appoints global health chief

Timothy P. Cost has been appointed as global chairman (healthcare) and executive vice president at APCO Worldwide.

June 03, 2010

 

Edelman appoints senior PA chief

Senior US PA operator Steve Schmidt is set to join Edelman as vice chairman of public affairs.

June 03, 2010

 

Travelport appoints new comms chief

Travelport, the business services provider to the global travel industry has announced the appointment of Julian Walker as head of corporate communications.

June 02, 2010

 

Hatoyama quits as PM

Japanese prime minister Yukio Hatoyama has performed a spectacular u-turn over his political future and formally announced his resignation, after just eight months in the the job.

June 02, 2010

 

PublicAffairsAsia to publish State of Industry 2010 report

PublicAffairsAsia is set to publish the findings of the 2010 State of the Industry report into the consultancy GA and PA sector.

June 01, 2010

 

Pakistan restores Facebook amid continuing social media restrictions

Pakistan has restored access to Facebook, nearly two weeks after closing the popular networking site in a storm of controversy about blasphemy, but still restricted hundreds of online links.

June 01, 2010

 

Malaysia lacks nationalism says minister

Malaysia still has a poor sense of nationalism, which is holding back the country's development, according to Youth and Sports deputy minister, Datuk Razali Ibrahim.

May 31, 2010

 

India and China signal closer ties

The presidents of both China and India have said that they seek further economic and political benefits from working more closely together.

May 28, 2010

 

Osaka bids to be Japanese gateway

The governor of Osaka prefecture, Toru Hashimoto, has called on the Japanese government to designate Osaka a special business zone in a bid to make the region a key entry point for business in Asia.

May 24, 2010

 

Clinton calls for level playing field in China

US secretary of state Hillary Clinton has arrived in Beijing to participate in the annual Strategic and Economic Dialogue.

May 24, 2010

 

Shell appoints new global comms chief

Herbert Heitmann has been appointed executive vice president of global external communications at Shell, based in The Hague.

May 21, 2010

 

Large Chinese companies in major GA drive

Twenty five private companies in Eastern China's Zhejiang province are trying to recruit party secretaries to boost their government relations capacity.

May 21, 2010

 

APCO appoints senior Bush aide

Anita McBride, former assistant to president George W. Bush and chief of staff to Laura Bush, joins APCO Worldwide as a member of the company’s International Advisory Council (IAC) and a senior counselor with Global Political Strategies.

May 20, 2010

 

Edelman creates new science unit

Edelman has announced the creation of DJE Science, a specialty unit partnering with science-intensive businesses and organisations.

May 20, 2010

 

Thaksin predicts no end to Thai crisis

Fugitive Thai prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra has warned that breaking up the red shirt protest in central Bangkok could lead to wider civil unrest and will not end Thailand's political divisions.

May 19, 2010

 

Virgin Blue announces new PA manager

Virgin Blue Holdings Limited has announced the appointment of Danielle Keighery as general manager of public affairs to lead its communications team.

May 17, 2010

 

USEC appoints corp comms VP

USEC, the leading global supplier of enriched urnanium fuel, has announced the appointment of Paul Jacobson as vice president of corporate communications.

May 17, 2010

 

Fleishman-Hillard signs key Australian deal

Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has announced a strategic alliance with Rowland,a leading corporate communications and business advisory group in Brisbane.

May 12, 2010

 

AmCham China calls for more focus on FDI

The American Chamber of Commerce in China (AmCham) has called for an increased focus on the national treatment of foreign-invested companies operating in the People's Republic and has expressed concerns over reduced market access.

May 11, 2010

 

Bite Communications appoints new China MD

Bite Communications has announced that Lancy Ma has become managing director of its China operation.

May 10, 2010

 

Thaksin hires law firm to help protesters

Thailand's former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, has hired an international law firm to assist the anti-government red shirt protest movement which is holding mass rallies in Bangkok.

May 04, 2010

 

US pledges to boost China exports

The US government has pledged to reduce its huge trade deficit by boosting its exports to China.

May 04, 2010

 

APCO Worldwide woos Gilligan in Beijing

Former senior McDonald's executive Greg Gilligan has been appointed managing director of APCO Worldwide's Beijing office.

April 28, 2010

 

Software lobby calls for more action on piracy

Governments across Asia must do more to fight software piracy and create a sympathetic legal environment if local software companies are to survive, the Business Software Alliance (BSA) has said..

April 26, 2010

 

New China think tank launched

The Carnegie Endowment has announced the launch of the Carnegie Tsinghua Centre for Global Policy, a joint US China research centre based at Tsinghua University in Beijing.

April 25, 2010

 

EU launches Chinese anti-subsidy investigation

The European Union has decided to conduct an anti-subsidy investigation into imported Chinese coated paper, following a complaint by an industry lobby group.

April 19, 2010

 

China makes major move on FDI

Senior Chinese officials have reaffirmed the country's committment to widening market access to foreign investors with the introduction of a major new directive.

April 15, 2010

 

Artificial Life appoints new external relations VP

3G telecoms and applications provider Artificial Life has announced the appointment of Michelle Lam as its new vice president of investor relations and public relations.

April 09, 2010

 

New Japanese political party launched

Former Japanese finance minister, Kaoru Yosano, and former trade minister, Takeo Haranuma, will this week launch a new political party.

April 07, 2010

 

China Government Affairs Forum nears capacity

The May 25 China Government Affairs Forum is nearing capacity as senior corporate figures continue to examine MNCs' position in China's trading landscape.

April 05, 2010

 

China moves to reassure foreign investors

The Chinese government has moved to reassure foreign investors that the business environment would remain open to foreign investment.

April 02, 2010

 

Leading Japanese agencies sign deal

Burson-Marsteller is to partner with specialist agency GR Japan to offer joint strategic government relations and public relations advisory services.

April 01, 2010

 

Grayling appoints industry leads

Grayling has announced a major management change with the the appointment of its six industry sector heads.

April 01, 2010

 

Toyota attempts to recover reputation

The Toyota Motor Corp. has announced several steps to improve its image, including the establishment of a panel of regional and local quality-control executives that will manage future recalls.

March 31, 2010

 

Citi appoints new global PA chief

Citigroup Inc. has announced that New York City deputy mayor Edward Skyler will join the company as executive vice president for global public affairs.

March 31, 2010

 

Rowbury becomes Edelman Japanese president

Ross Rowbury will join Edelman on 1 May as President, Japan.

March 29, 2010

 

Thai PM holds talks with protesters

The Thai government is holding its second day of talks with United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship better known as the red shirts.

March 29, 2010

 

China to step up anti-corruption activity

China will step up efforts to crack major corruption cases, especially those with collusion between leading officials and business people, according to premier Wen Jiabao.

March 29, 2010

 

Momentum builds ahead of China Government Affairs Forum

A wide range of partner organisations and speakers have been announced as PublicAffairsAsia prepares for the first Government Affairs Forum conference in Beijing.

March 26, 2010

 

BM appoints new global healthcare chief

Burson-Marsteller has appointed Helene Ellison to be global chairman of its healthcare practice.

March 25, 2010

 

Disney appoints Pei as China GA chief

The Walt Disney Company has announced the appointment of Yvonne Pei to the position of senior vice president for government affairs in Greater China.

March 25, 2010

 

EU Chamber to host NPC seminar

The European Union Chamber of Commerce in China is to host a seminar on the outcomes of the recently concluded Plenary Session of the National People's Congress 2010.

March 25, 2010

 

Global Alliance welcomes four new members

The Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, the umbrella organization linking PR professional associations worldwide, today officially welcomed new members from four countries. The Alliance continues to grow as the international public relations community prepares for the World Public Relations Forum in Stockholm in June.

March 25, 2010

 

Google pulls search engines from the PRC

The Chinese government has attacked Google's decision to abandon censoring search results and for redirecting users in mainland China to its unrestricted Hong Kong site.

March 23, 2010

 

Blair accused over Korean oil advice

Former British prime minister Tony Blair received cash from a Korean oil company run by a former bribery convict.

March 23, 2010

 

Dentsu BlueFocus to be launched

The Dentsu Group has announced the creation of a new public relations consultancy called Dentsu BlueFocus (Beijing) in a joint venture with Chinese public relations company BlueFocus Communications.

March 18, 2010

 

Thai premier open to red shirt negotiations

Thailand's prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has said he is open to negotiations with the red-shirt protesters who have massed in Bangkok to demand that he resign and hold a general election.

March 18, 2010

 

Edelman announces Japan management changes

Edelman Asia Pacific has announced further significant changes to its regional structure with the appointment of a new president and representative director in Japan.

March 15, 2010

 

PAA to host key government affairs conference

PublicAffairsAsia has announced its first Government Affairs Forum conference for senior PA practitioners and corporate managers in Beijing.

March 12, 2010

 

Cambodia passes corruption law

Cambodia's parliament has approved a controversial anti-corruption law after more than 15 years after the legislation was first proposed.

March 11, 2010

 

Japanese respond to industry lobby

The Japanese governmnent has yielded to lobbying pressure from industry over its proposed legislation on climate change.

March 11, 2010

 

IATA appoints new regional chief

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Willy Boulter as regional vice president for Asia-Pacific.

March 05, 2010

 

Dow Jones names new chief communications officer

Dow Jones & Company has announced the appointment of Bethany B. Sherman as chief communications officer.

March 05, 2010

 

Greenpeace China calls for more green action

As China's National People's Congress opens,Greenpeace calls on the legislative body to develop strong policies that would accelerate moves to a green economy,encourage energy efficiency and sustainable construction.

March 05, 2010

 

Edelman makes senior Australian changes

Edelman has announced major changes to its senior management team in Australia.

March 03, 2010

 

Toyota strengthens lobbying effort

The Toyota Motor Corp. is putting together a crisis team of lobbyists, lawyers and public relations specialists to handle the political and regulatory issues that have engulfed the company since its international recall over car safety.

March 02, 2010

 

APCO woos Cargill's Coquillard in China

APCO has announced that former Cargill China boss J. Norwell Coquillard has become a senior counselor and a member of its International Advisory Council.

March 01, 2010

 

Toyota chief faces tough time in Congress

Toyota Motor president Akio Toyoda has apologised over the need for a massive recall of vehicles in an attempt to stop any further slide in company confidence.

February 25, 2010

 

Chinese anti-smoking lobby scents victory

The anti-smoking lobby in China are calling for a legal ban on donations and sponsorship from tobacco companies for events such as expos, festivals and sporting events.

February 24, 2010

 

Edelman: Trust rises globally as NGOs rise in Asia

Trust in business is recovering in the West and remains high in key Asian nations such as China, the annual Edelman Trust survey has found.

February 22, 2010

 

Murck to become AmCham-China president

Top China public affairs figure Christian Murck is to be appointed as president of The American Chamber of Commerce in China.

February 18, 2010

 

Yudhoyono scoops Asia political communicator award

Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) has topped the list in the The Gold Standard Award in Political Communications.

February 10, 2010

 

Gold Standard Awards announced

Senior PA practitioners, diplomats and political and trade figures have gathered in Hong Kong to hear the winners of the first Gold Standard Awards for political and corporate communications.

February 10, 2010

 

Save The Children secures Gold Standard Award for Public Affairs Achievement

Save The Children has been named as the winner of the first Gold Standard Award for global public affairs achievement.

February 10, 2010

 

New survey shows increased interest in the Shanghai Expo

The United States' pavilion at the Shanghai Expo is the most anticipated foreign country exhibition centre, a survey has revealed, despite it being one of the last to confirm its participation.

January 28, 2010

 

New ministry to drive Chinese energy policy

A new super ministry has been set up to take charge of China's energy policy for better coordination in formulating strategy and planning.

January 28, 2010

 

Korea and India cement major deal

A summit between President Lee Myung-bak and prime minister Manmohan Singh has led to a major upgrading of bilateral relations between the two countries covering the economy, trade, defence and culture.

January 27, 2010

 

Pickard to head BM Asia-Pacific

Burson-Marsteller has appointed Bob Pickard as president and chief executive officer for Asia-Pacific.

January 25, 2010

 

McKinsey study identifies need for corporate government affairs

A new report has underlined the need for greater governmental engagement by multinational corporations.

January 22, 2010

 

EON hires Lacanilao to manage PA practice

Stakeholder relations firm EON has appointed former diplomat Jojo Lacanilao as director of its expanding Philippines public affairs practice.

January 21, 2010

 

Vietnam presses for closer Asian-Latin American ties

The Vietnamese deputy prime minister Pham Gia Khiem has called for closer ties between East Asia and Latin America at a meeting of the Forum for East-Asia-Latin America Co-operation (FEALAC).

January 19, 2010

 

US airlines hover over JAL bankruptcy

Japan Airlines is expected to file for bankruptcy ending months-long speculation about its future.

January 19, 2010

 

Increased Asian trade is the UK solution

Increased trade and investment in Asia is the solution to Britain's economic stagnation according to a new report.

January 18, 2010

 

Edelman woos Haas as China chief

Edelman has announced the appointment of former MS&L Worldwide global boss Mark Hass as president of its China operations.

January 15, 2010

 

China responds to Google withdrawal threat

China has insisted that foreign internet companies should be able to operate on the Mainland providing they do so "according to the law".

January 14, 2010

 

Review criticises China's e-government

A national review of China's e-government campaign has criticised it for failing to offer sufficient public access and enough useful information.

January 13, 2010

 

Senior Chinese minister pledges more steps against graft

The Chinese minister responsible for fighting corruption, Qu Wanxiang has pledged to target corrupt executives working in state owned enterprises (SOE).

January 08, 2010

 

CIGNA confirms public affairs VP

Global healthcare provider CIGNA Corporation has confirmed the appointment of Carol Ann Petren as executive vice president of legal and public affairs and general counsel.

January 07, 2010

 

Cathay Pacific appoints new global comms chief

Cathay Pacific has appointed CK Yeung as general manager of corporate communications.

January 07, 2010

 

Ogilvy makes senior Asian changes

Ogilvy PR has announced that Steve Dahllof is to become CEO of its Asia Pacific operation.

January 05, 2010

 

Etihad appoints new comms VP

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has appointed Hareb Al Muhairy to the position of Vice President of Corporate Communications.

January 04, 2010

 

Glodow Nead expands into Asia

US PR operator Glodow Nead Communications has announced the appointment of Yeo Hwee Peng to the new position of director of Asian markets.

January 04, 2010

 

PR teams to restructure Dubai World

Talks have started on how to restructure the future of Dubai World and PR agencies and experts are set to be heavily involved.

January 04, 2010

 

Political communications shortlist announced

PublicAffairsAsia has announced the shortlist for The Gold Standard in Political Communications.

January 04, 2010

 

Business lobby struggles to exert pressure on climate deal

Business leaders at the United Nations climate-change summit in Copenhagen are pushing European nations not to bow to pressure from developing nations to increase targets for greenhouse-gas cuts.

December 18, 2009

 

Gold Standard reception venue announced

PublicAffairsAsia has announced that the Gold Standard Awards are to be presented in Hong Kong in February.

December 18, 2009

 

World cricket appoints new comms chief

The International Cricket Council has announced that Colin Gibson has been appointed as the organisation's Head of Media and Communications.

December 18, 2009

 

Malaysia publishes anti-corruption plan

The Malaysian government has published a three-year plan to reduce the perception of increasing corruption following declining investor interest in Malaysia.

December 18, 2009

 

ASEAN summit marks charter anniversary

Leaders from the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations are marking the first anniversary of the group's constitution, known as the ASEAN Charter.

December 17, 2009

 

Pro and anti governance lobbies lock horns in Tokyo

The Asian Corporate Governance Association (ACGA) has warned that the proposed changes to Japanese corporate governance rules could prove to be ineffective following opposition from the Japanese Business Federation.

December 16, 2009

 

Computer sector in major China lobby

Thirty industry groups representing the computer and office equipment sector have protested to the the Chinese government saying that procurement rules effectively prevent foreign companies selling computers and office equipment to government departments.

December 16, 2009

 

Gates Foundation appoints new comms chief

The global charitable initiative the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has named Kate James as its chief communications officer.

December 16, 2009

 

Japanese government bows to business lobby

The Japanese government has decided to scrap its introduction of an an environment tax following a succesful lobby by the Japanese business community.

December 14, 2009

 

Business 'must engage' social media in China, finds White Paper

Corporations should become more sophisticated and confident in their engagement with China's rapidly growing social media if they are to influence policy, a White Paper released by Edelman and PublicAffairsAsia has concluded.

December 12, 2009

 

Japan pledges to push free trade area

The Japanese foreign minister, Katsuya Okada has pledged that Japan will accelerate the growth of an APEC free trade following an APEC symposium in Tokyo.

December 10, 2009

 

UN highlights business in fight against corruption

The UN campaign against corruption has been highlighted with the observance of the International Anti-Corruption Day.

December 09, 2009

 

Climate change Australia's greatest economic risk says new survey

Australia's leading policy makers and business leaders believe climate change is the country's biggest economic threat.

December 09, 2009

 

Gold Standard Awards shortlist announced

The shortlist of the inaugural PublicAffairsAsia Gold Standard Awards has been announced with leading MNCs, government agencies, NGOs and trade promotion bodies in contention to secure the overall awards.

December 04, 2009

 

Dubai launches PR offensive

The government of Dubai is mounting a PR and PA offensive as it seeks to calm investors nerves and tackle criticism of its failure to underwrite companies which many perceived as state owned assets.

December 03, 2009

 

Japanese coalition under threat

The Social Democratic Party, which is in coalition with Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama's ruling Democrats has threatened to leave the coalition if the prime minister ignores her party's opinion on the relocation of a US military base.

December 03, 2009

 

Japanese energy lobby opposes new tax

A new environmental tax that the Japanese government may introduce in April to tackle climate change is raising concerns in the electricity and gas industries and has been criticised by the energy sectors representative bodies.

December 01, 2009

 

IPREX elects new president

Senior PR professional Peter Wilkinson has replaced David Ketchum as Asia Pacific president of the IPREX agency network.

November 25, 2009

 

US praises China over improved toy safety

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has praised China for 'taking toy safety seriously' two years after millions of made-in-China toys had to be recalled following fears over their safety.

November 24, 2009

 

Fleishman makes KL management changes

Fleishman-Hillard has promoted Joycelyn Lee and Kelvin Lim to the role of vice president and digital strategist.

November 23, 2009

 

Tweed becomes BBS Singapore managing director

Former BBC journalist Patricia Tweed has joined Baldwin Boyle Shand as MD of its Singapore office.

November 23, 2009

 

Kreab Gavin Anderson announces new management

Kreab Gavin Anderson has announced that Karl Isaksson will become the new managing partner of its office in Brussels.

November 23, 2009

 

Major China-Cambodia business seminar held

A seminar of China-Cambodia Business and Investment has been held in Phnom Penh with more than 100 Cambodian and Chinese business people attending.

November 18, 2009

 

Yudhoyono pressed to make radical change

Indonesia's legal institutions, including the police and prosecutors office, must be subjected to radical changes a group of experts appointed by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has recommended.

November 18, 2009

 

China and India to drive construction growth

New global construction forecasts released by Global Construction Perspectives and Oxford Economics have indicated that the output of the construction sector is likely to rise sharply over the next decade driven by the emerging markets of China and India and that sustainability will be a major feaure of future growth.

November 17, 2009

 

SMG appoints new comms chief

The Singapore Medical Group has appointed Mathew Thomas as vice president of PR & Communications.

November 17, 2009

 

Social media 'key to outcomes' in China finds PublicAffairsAsia/Edelman survey

More than two-thirds of 132 public affairs professionals with responsibility for China surveyed by PublicAffairsAsia and Edelman believe that opinions expressed in social media have more influence over contemporary public policy than other media.

November 17, 2009

 

Business "key" to US- Indian relations

Robert Blake, the US assistant secretary for South and Central Asian affairs has placed the future of US-Indian relations firmly with the business sector.

November 13, 2009

 

Obama starts US Asian trade drive

President Barack Obama has begun an eight-day Asian tour aimed at boosting economic growth and promoting trade.

November 13, 2009

 

Edelman and CIPRA in social media push

Edelman has announced a partnership with the China International Public Relations Association (CIPRA) to assist with the professional development of Chinese communications and public relations professors.

November 12, 2009

 

Anti tobacco lobby scores a victory

The Thai Tobacco Monopoly is withdrawing its tobacco products from the Tabinfo Asia 2009 expo following a succesful lobby by anti-smoking groups.

November 11, 2009

 

PublicAffairsAsia and Edelman launch China social media survey

PublicAffairsAsia and Edelman are inviting readers and clients to take part in a survey into the impact of social media in China

November 06, 2009

 

Country Brand Index results published for 2009

The United States has become the world’s top county brand for the first time in the fifth annual Country Brand Index (CBI), rising from the third spot in 2008.

November 06, 2009

 

Gold Standard nominations process closed

Entries for the 2009 Gold Standard Awards have closed with the programme having attracted significant interest among corporations, consultancies and government agencies.

November 05, 2009

 

CIC should take advantage of London says development chief

The China Investment Corporation has begun potentially planning its first international office in London,Think London has revealed.

November 05, 2009

 

Sahara wins Citadel contract

Citadel Capital a private equity firm in the Middle East and North Africa, has announced the appointment of Sahara as its public relations consultancy.

November 05, 2009

 

Indian minister calls for more pragmatism in dealing with India

India is different and unique and outsiders should accept its system as it is and work with it, said Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam.

November 04, 2009

 

Pro and anti tobacco lobbies to clash in Bangkok

An alliance of anti-tobacco and health activists will continue its campaign against a major tobacco promotional event which is to be held in Bangkok next week.

November 04, 2009

 

New regulation to promote transparency in China

Chinese government bodies failing to publicise information may face legal action, according to a draft regulation issued by the Supreme People's Court.

November 03, 2009

 

Governments need smarter communications says Malaysian diplomat

In the era of globalisation, governments need to be smarter in handling issues of public interest and concern, such as the Influenza A(H1N1) pandemic, said leading Malaysian diplomat and academic , Tan Sri Hasmy Agam.

November 03, 2009

 

Cyber security body appoints agency

The International Multilateral Partnership Against Cyber Threats (IMPACT) has hired Singapore-based agency Rice Communications as its global communications partner.

November 01, 2009

 

US trade body elects new president

The Council of Public Relations Firms has announced the election of its new officers and directors with APCO president Margery Kraus becoming the chairman.

November 01, 2009

 

H&K wins UN climate change contract

Global comms consultancy Hill & Knowlton has become the official media sponsor for the UN Conference on Climate Change, COP15, to be held in Copenhagen in December.

October 30, 2009

 

Thai government calls for more business engagement

Thailand's prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has called on business to give proper attention to transparency, governance and corporate social respobility while the public should recognise new investment and economic development.

October 30, 2009

 

Lee Kuan Yew meets Obama ahead of Asian trip

Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore has finished a series of high level US meetings this week by calling on President Obama at the White House ahead of the president's first Asian tour.

October 30, 2009

 

Japanese PM points to new public affairs landscape

The new prime minister of Japan, Hatayoma Yukio has pledged in his first speech to the Japanese Diet that policy would be driven by elected members of parliament rather than civil servants.

October 27, 2009

 

Chambers unite over APEC trade talks

Four Asia-Pacific business chambers in Singapore urge governments to place TPP negotiations at the top of their trade policy agendas

October 26, 2009

 

Chinese officials warned about corruption

Chinese communist officials are being told to avoid "vulgar" places of entertainment, in the latest bid to boost morality and fight corruption.

October 26, 2009

 

UK rejects new lobbying regulations

British lobbyists will continue to operate freely across the UK civil service after the government backed away from imposing new regulations on the industry.

October 26, 2009

 

ASEAN told of possible Myanmar breakthrough

ASEAN leaders have expressed reserved optimism that Myanmar's military government could shift its attitude towards detained pro-democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi.

October 26, 2009

 

Upstream appoints Trend Micro

The internet content security firm Trend Micro has appointed Upstream Asia to manage its Singapore corporate communications and media relations programmes.

October 26, 2009

 

Human rights lobby focuses on Asean commission

Human rights lobbyists in Asia are set to score a partial victory this weekend when ASEAN leaders agree to form a new Asean Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights.

October 23, 2009

 

New Indonesian cabinet attacked

Indonesia's President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's new cabinet has attracted considerable criticism from analysts with claims that it will be insufficiently open to new policy initiatives.

October 23, 2009

 

Singapore government embarks on new campaign

The Singapore Ministry of Manpower has issued a tender for an advertising and PR agency to promote the employment of older workers.

October 20, 2009

 

Bernanke issues warning as economies bounce back

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Barnanke has said that Asian economies have recovered strongly from the global economic crisis.

October 20, 2009

 

Japanese trade unions step-up lobbying

After a long period of decline, Japan's trade unions are looking to exercise unprecedented influence on the formation of government policy.

October 19, 2009

 

Alcoa appoints new PA vice president

Global aluminium producer Alcoa Inc has announced the appointment of Daniel Cruise as vice president for public and government affairs.

October 19, 2009

 

View Thailand as ASEAN bridge, Korn tells business leaders

International business should view Thailand as a gateway to ASEAN, China and Japan, the Thai finance minister has told an audience of Irish business professionals.

October 16, 2009

 

Twitter mobile service launched in Japan

Twitter has announced the launch of a mobile version in Japan as it seeks to develop its website in a foreign language.

October 16, 2009

 

PublicAffairsAsia co-hosts Singapore networking debate

Over 35 senior public affairs, government relations and corporate communications professionals gathered this week for a panel debate and networking event on the theme of corporate diplomacy.

October 14, 2009

 

Thain moves to Red Bull

Eric Thain has joined Austrian energy drink brand Red Bull as communications director for the Asia-Pacific region.

October 14, 2009

 

Sykes moves to telecoms giant

Telecommunications company Telco Alcatel-Lucent has appointed Scott Sykes as director of media and external relations for Asia-Pacific.

October 14, 2009

 

FD to launch public affairs function in China

Financial Dynamics has announced the appointment of Jack Zhang as it establishes a public affairs practice in China.

October 14, 2009

 

Ruder Finn secures BusinessWeek contract

Ruder Finn has been appointed by BusinessWeek as their PR Agency partner for the 2009 CEO Forum.

October 13, 2009

 

B-M wins climate change contract

Australian climate change campaigner Cool NRG has appointed Burson-Marsteller to lead a PR drive into China and the US.

October 09, 2009

 

Top US lobbying firms announce merger

Washington DC lobbying firms BKSH & Associates Worldwide and Timmons and Company have announced that they will merge to form the Prime Policy Group.

October 07, 2009

 

New CSR challenges lie ahead for business

CSR Asia has conducted a survey of over 70 CSR experts in the region to look at what are the top 10 issues that companies will face in the next decade.

October 05, 2009

 

Public affairs and communications 'bigger than ever' says Boeing ASEAN chief

Business must reach out more to government and should be supported by their embassies when doing so, the former US ambassador Ralph 'Skip' Boyce has told PublicAffairsAsia.

October 05, 2009

 

Bite Communications expands Asia footprint with Upstream acquisition

Pan-Asian PR, marcomms and public affairs player Upstream is set to be acquired by the European and US operator Bite Communications.

October 03, 2009

 

US healthcare lobby under fire over Obama influence

The US healthcare and insurance lobbies are coming under scrutiny after an intense round of activity on Capitol Hill.

October 02, 2009

 

Party PR at heart of PRC celebrations

As China celebrates its national day, the Chinese government has orchestarted a carefully planned PR offensive seeking to underpin its two key themes of continued one-party rule and rapid economic growth.

October 01, 2009

 

New push on regional co-operation

A new trilateral agreement between China, Japan and South Korea has been signed following a day-long foreign ministers meeting in Shanghai.

September 30, 2009

 

Weber Shandwick launches e-China guide

A new guide to the people and processes of the Chinese government has been launched by Weber Shandwick in the country.

September 30, 2009

 

Weber Shandwick to open Korean operation

Weber Shandwick has announced that it is to establish a fully owned operation in Korea.

September 24, 2009

 

Edelman announces Asia management switch

Edelman has announced a shake-up of its management team as it seeks to boost operations in Hong Kong, Taiwan and North Asia.

September 23, 2009

 

Japanese civil service face new restrictions

Japanese civil servants will be barred from giving press conferences or associating with politicians under guidelines introduced by the new government determined to reduce the traditional influence of the bueaucracy.

September 18, 2009

 

GolinHarris win Mekong Build contract

GolinHarris has announced that it has been appointed by Habitat for Humanity China to support the 2009 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project, the Mekong Build in China.

September 18, 2009

 

China FDI continues to grow

China has continued to act as a magnet for foreign investment in spite of the international credit crunch, according to the World Investment Report 2009 published by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.

September 18, 2009

 

Thai ruling expected on major corruption case

Business and political figures are awaiting a key ruling by the Thai National Anti-Corruption Commission followng a US case alleging corruption in the country.

September 16, 2009

 

US consultation on Korean FTA closes

The United States Trade Representative Office has received more than 500 public comments on the free trade agreement with Korea.

September 16, 2009

 

Major CPC meeting to debate fight against corruption

China is expected to use this week's CPC Central Committee meeting to step up its efforts to tackle bribery and corruption by officials.

September 16, 2009

 

Business awaits announcement of Japanese Cabinet

Japan's business lobby is awaiting the formal announcement of the incoming Cabinet amid ongoing horse-trading.

September 11, 2009

 

US-ASEAN Business Council becomes Gold Standard Awards partner

The US-ASEAN Business Council has become the latest organisation to become a partner in the 2009 Gold Standard Awards for public policy and communications.

September 11, 2009

 

Asian MNCs 'need greater public affairs expertise'

MNCs based in Asia have unprecedented opportunities in the current global business environment but need to bolster their public affairs and communications capabilities, a study by Fleishman-Hillard has found.

September 10, 2009

 

Mandelson calls for China to adopt leadership role

British business secretary Lord Mandelson has highlighted the growing importance of the Chinese economy and the connection between business and stakeholders.

September 09, 2009

 

Global Alliance announces scholarships

The Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management has announced the sponsorship of four scholarships to encourage international participantion at the Università della Svizzera italiana (USI)'s Master of Science in Communication Management (MScom) programme.

September 08, 2009

 

Japanese business lobby gears up for fight

Japan's newly elected government faces growing opposition from business lobbyists, which fear its policies on carbon emissions could hinder an economic recovery.

September 04, 2009

 

Former Indian cabinet minister joins PublicAffairsAsia judging panel

The former Indian cabinet minister Mani Shankar Aiyar is the latest member to join the Gold Standard Awards judging panel.

September 04, 2009

 

Decision makers invited to identify Asia's Gold Standard political communicator

Business leaders, NGO heads, politicians and members of the media are being urged to identify Asia's leading political communicator as part of a new awards programme launched across the region.

September 04, 2009

 

Ruder Finn makes key health appointment

Mai Tran has been appointed executive vice-president of Ruder Finn's health and wellness practice.

September 02, 2009

 

Agencies called to enter PRCA Awards

The London based Public Relations Consultants Association has called for award nominations from non-UK based consultancies.

August 28, 2009

 

Endemic corruption 'damaging' India's reputation

Endemic corruption is harming India's reputation overseas, prime minister Manmohan Singh has said warning that foreign investors were being scared away by the 'menace'.

August 26, 2009

 

New Chinese law 'will restrict' government power

China is examining a draft law regulating government mandatory power as it seeks to prevent abuses of administrative responsibility.

August 26, 2009

 

New PA chief at Saber Seven

Will Burrington has been appointed as executive vice president of public affairs at Saber Seven, the media and technology company developing Dorthy.com.

August 21, 2009

 

Ang takes helm at Upstream Singapore

Upstream Asia has announced the appointment of Bill Ang as managing director for Singapore and South East Asia.

August 20, 2009

 

Ambani brothers lobby ahead of court battle

As the bitter gas battle between the Ambani brothers heads to the Supreme Court observers say both sides are lobbying in what could become a defining moment for India's economic and political future.

August 20, 2009

 

Liew becomes head of BM Singapore practice

Burson-Marsteller has appointed Mike Liew as managing director of its corporate/financial practice in Singapore.

August 18, 2009

 

PublicAffairsAsia's Atack to lead US push

PublicAffairsAsia is set to expand its focus on the US with the announcement that European vice-president Steve Atack is to take responsibility for the United States.

August 14, 2009

 

Samena appoints Connor as strategic adviser

The Samena Telecommunications Council has announced the appointment of Justin Connor as its strategic regulatory advisor.

August 14, 2009

 

India-ASEAN deal to exclude IT and agriculture

India and ASEAN have signed a free trade agreement after more than six years of negotiations, but the deal excludes software,information technology and a wide range of agricultural products.

August 14, 2009

 

Chinese internet filter 'will be optional'

The Chinese government has announced that a controversial Internet filter software will be optional for all users after plans to install it on computers sold in China caused a wave of protest.

August 14, 2009

 

Garuda unveils crisis comms review

Garuda Indonesia has appointed ICON International Communications as its regional public relations company for Australia and South East Asia.

August 14, 2009

 

APCO secures key Malaysian contract

Global PA operator APCO is to expand its business in Malaysia after securing a key contract from the country's government.

August 11, 2009

 

PublicAffairsAsia launches networking events

To celebrate its first anniversary this month PublicAffairsAsia magazine and network is set to launch its first wave of panel debates and networking events across the region.

August 07, 2009

 

Body Shop takes lead in campagin against child sex trafficking

Body Shop and Ruder Finn in Asia have joined forces to raise awareness and capaign against the sex trafficking of children and young people.

August 06, 2009

 

Weber Shandwick boosts Indonesian team

Global PR operator Weber Shandwick has announced the appointment of Dian Noeh Abubakar as vice president of its Indonesian operations.

August 04, 2009

 

Global Aids expert joins APCO council

World Aids expert Ambassador Mark Dybul has joined APCO Worldwide’s international advisory council.

August 03, 2009

 

JP Morgan promotes China research chief

JP Morgan Chase & Co. has appointed its chief economist Frank Gong to the newly created role of vice chairman of China investment banking.

August 03, 2009

 

Arroyo strategy secures White House meeting

The Philippines' president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has met with Barack Obama after a carefully crafted lobbying strategy saw her become the first regional president to meet the US president in the Oval Office.

July 31, 2009

 

Japan's major brewers show big appetite for M&As

Asia's drinks industry has seen a wave of M&A activity in the first half of 2009, as Japan's major brewers look overseas to reposition themselves.

July 29, 2009

 

New UKIBC chairman makes India top priority

The UK India Business Council's new chairman Patricia Hewitt has called for a greater effort to generate more bilateral trade and investment.

July 28, 2009

 

GA Forum leads live Chinese radio debate

The members of the recently convened PublicAffairsAsia Government Affairs Forum have appeared on a live Chinese national radio programme.

July 28, 2009

 

Sri Lanka in Washington lobbying push

The government of Sri Lanka is engaged in a US$400,000 a year lobbying offensive in the United States, according to reports.

July 24, 2009

 

Huntsman emphasises closer links with China

The incoming US ambassador to China has signalled a new 'realist' direction in Sino-US engagement.

July 24, 2009

 

Worldcom PR appoints new chairman

The Worldcom Public Relations Group has announced the appointment of Diego Biasi as worldwide chairman.

July 21, 2009

 

London remains FDI capital of Europe

Think London, the foreign direct investment agency, has published its annual review, holding its top position in Europe as a destination for foreign direct investment.

July 20, 2009

 

State Department confirms US-China talks

The first meeting of the newly established China-US Strategic and Economic Dialogue has been scheduled for July 27-28, the State Department has confirmed.

July 20, 2009

 

Brookings report highlights regional challenges

The Asia Pacific region has undergone fundamental changes in its regional organisation and power structure in the post-Cold War era, according to a new report by the Brookings Institution.

July 16, 2009

 

Australian PR body appoints new CEO

Jon Bissett has been appointed the new CEO of the Public Relations Institute of Australia.

July 16, 2009

 

Final call for Australian survey

The deadline for the Australian PR industry's survey is approaching.

July 14, 2009

 

Etihad appoints new senior VP corporate communications

Etihad Airways has appointed Belinda de Rome as its new senior vice president to lead its corporate communications team.

July 14, 2009

 

New figures reveal scale of Australia lobbying

The Australian Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet has revealed the number of official lobbyists operating in the country's parliament

July 13, 2009

 

Malay nationalists score victory in language lobby

Concerns relating to Malayasia's competitiveness have been raised following a decision to stop using English in the teaching of maths and physics, following an intensive lobbying effort by Malay nationalists.

July 10, 2009

 

Digital China Government Affairs Forum launches

PublicAffairsAsia has this week launched its new China Government Affairs Forum - an online discussion platform for public affairs professionals engaged in China.

July 03, 2009

 

Hill & Knowlton takes stewardship of IPAN

Hill & Knowlton has announced it has brought Indian public affairs and PR practice IPAN into its control.

July 03, 2009

 

India's equality lobby hails gay law ruling

The Indian equalities lobby is celebrating a ruling which decriminalises homosexuality in India.

July 02, 2009

 

Asian parliamentarians to meet in Taiwan

The 40th annual conference of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentarians' Union (APPU) is scheduled to take place in Taipei.

June 29, 2009

 

PublicAffairsAsia launches Gold Standard Awards

PublicAffairsAsia has unveiled the categories and preliminary judging panel for the inaugural Gold Standard Awards for public policy, government relations and corporate communications.

June 29, 2009

 

Global Government Relations woos Ghanma in Middle East

DLA Piper's Global Government Relations practice has announced that Maher Ghanma is to take control of an expanding PA presence across the Middle East.

June 29, 2009

 

Global industry leaders to determine 2009 Gold Standard Awards

The Gold Standard Awards 2009 are to be judged by an unrivalled group of senior figures from business, consultancies, government bodies, NGOs and trade missions.

June 26, 2009

 

Qantas appoints new comms chief

Qantas Airways has appointed Australian Tourism & Transport Forum executive director Olivia Wirth as head of corporate affairs.

June 25, 2009

 

Procter and Gamble appoints new global communications head

Christopher D.Hassall has been appointed Procter and Gambles new global external relations officer

June 25, 2009

 

PR evaluation on the rise says new study

A new global survey of PR professionals has found that more practitioners than ever are measuring the effectiveness of their communications programmes.

June 25, 2009

 

Task force calls for renewed Indo-US engagement

US-Indo relations have been allowed to wane and should be restored by new diplomatic and political ties between Washington and New Delhi, a new report has found.

June 25, 2009

 

Social media leading to more bad news for corporations finds study

A new study has underlined the capacity of social media to generate bad headlines for major corporations.

June 23, 2009

 

South Korean industry group lobbies for Asia Monetary Fund

One of South Korea's most powerful lobby groups has called for ASEAN nations to unite with South Korea, China and Japan to form a fund to protect against a future financial crisis.

June 18, 2009

 

Asian investment in London holds up

Think London, the foreign direct investment agency for London, has welcomed the results for foreign direct investment including major projects from Asia, such as the China Construction Bank and the inauguaral Kingfisher flight from India to London.

June 18, 2009

 

Yahoo appoints new communications chief

Internet company Yahoo! Inc has announced that Eric Channing Brown has become senior vice president of global communications.

June 05, 2009

 

Emerging markets fear threats to growth

Two-thirds of people believe "massive government spending" to combat the financial crisis shows a lack of clear direction, according to a representing 75 percent of the global economy issued on Wednesday.

June 05, 2009

 

US business set for fresh Indo trade links

The public affairs and US-Indo trade lobby is calling for renewed momentum as it prepares for a significant increase in activity as the country's new government embarks on its programme.

June 05, 2009

 

China and US will agree climate deal says DC expert

Amid a huge lobbying and political offensive the US-China agreement on climate change is achievable by the autumn, the director of the Carnegie Institute’s Energy and Climate Programme has told a senate hearing in the US.

June 04, 2009

 

Weber Shandwick makes top Thai appointment

Weber Shandwick has announced the promotion of Lalana Santos, currently executive consultant, to the position of managing director of Weber Shandwick Thailand.

June 03, 2009

 

Vriens announces link-up with Indonesia's Kiroyan Partners

Singapore-based government relations operator Vriens & Partners (V&P) has announced a partnership with Indonesian CSR and stakeholder engagement firm Kiroyan Partners.

June 02, 2009

 

Mercator XXI appoints Wahby to lead Middle East expansion

Washington PA firm Mercator XXI LLC has announced an expansion of its operations into the Middle East with the appointment of Hesham Wahby.

May 31, 2009

 

South Korea looks for lobby capital in US

Lobbyists, pressure groups and diplomats representing South Korea are set to step up their push for political support in Washington DC.

May 30, 2009

 

Taiwan energy lobby seeks to end legislative logjam

Taiwan's solar energy lobby is to step up its efforts to seek progress on a decade old bill for renewable energy development.

May 29, 2009

 

Obama appoints donor as Tokyo ambassador

The decision to appoint a key Democratic donor to the post of US ambassador to Japan has led to fresh criticism of presidential patronage.

May 28, 2009

 

Amnesty calls on business human rights focus

Businesses entering China markets should use their influence to lobby for a greater emphasis on human rights, the international group Amnesty International has said.

May 28, 2009

 

Fleishman-Hillard makes moves in north Asia

Fleishman-Hillard has made three senior appointments to its north Asian operations.

May 27, 2009

 

New Thai party 'potential threat' to Abhisit

The Thai protest movement the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) has voted to establish a political party.

May 27, 2009

 

China denies growth in fake drug industry

The Chinese goverment has hit back after claims it is turning a blind eye to a growing fake drug industry.

May 27, 2009

 

M:Communications boosts Gulf team

M:Communications has appointed the former communications adviser to the Iraqi prime minister as managing director for the Gulf Region.

May 25, 2009

 

Lobby groups: Indian election sets course for economic reform

Corporations and lobby groups have given a positive response to the outcome of India's general election.

May 22, 2009

 

London targets Korean businesses

The London government has announced new measures aimed at wooing business from across Asia following a visit by the city's mayor to Korea.

May 19, 2009

 

Obama selects Republican as China ambassador

Barack Obama has selected potential 2012 presidential rival and Republican governor Jon M. Huntsman Jr. as his ambassador to China.

May 17, 2009

 

Construction industry lobbies Dubai over unpaid debts

Groups representing the British construction and engineering industry are mounting a lobby to force the Dubai government to recover hundreds of millions of dollars in unpaid debts.

May 15, 2009

 

Human rights group targets Thai Commission

A human rights group has called for the resignation of the newly appointed members of Thailand's National Human Rights Commission.

May 14, 2009

 

Report paints mixed picture on Asia software piracy

Asian governments and software companies are making progress in stopping the illegal use of software products despite an ongoing problem of piracy on personal computers, a new report has found.

May 13, 2009

 

Comms chiefs extend influence among CEOs

Senior corporate communications professionals are increasingly functioning as a core part of a company's top tier management, according to a survey conducted by Weber Shandwick.

May 12, 2009

 

BMW appoints new Asian corp comms chief

Erin Atan has been appointed corporate affairs director at BMW Asia in Singapore, the regional corporate office of the BMW Group in Asia.

May 08, 2009

 

UAE launches government leadership programme

The UAE government has announced the launch of a new programme to equip senior officials with strategic leadership and change management skills.

May 07, 2009

 

Ruwart to pioneer Pathfinder in Asia

Global PA provider APCO is set to launch a new service which brings a public affairs strategy to traditional marketing by anticipating the response of stakeholders beyond the traditional customer base.

May 07, 2009

 

Edelman appoints Lavin as PA chairman

Edelman has announced a major boost to its government relations capability with the appointment of former US ambassador Frank Lavin as chairman of its public affairs practice.

May 04, 2009

 

ExxonMobil appoints Jaafar as Malaysia public affairs chief

ExxonMobil has appointed Farid Jaafar as public affairs manager in Malaysia following the retirement of veteran PA chief Mokhtar Daud.

May 03, 2009

 

Communications key in Mexican flu response

As the World Health Organisation seeks to manage the information flow surrounding the growing Mexican flu epidemic, one leading Asian corporate communicator has warned that successful news management will prove vital to the future of industries such as aviation.

April 29, 2009

 

Fortune 500 corporate blog adoption slow and steady according to new report

The Fortune 500 are progressing further in their adoption of public-facing corporate blogs than previous research has suggested.

April 29, 2009

 

AMCHAM China calls for action on stimulus

The American Chamber of Commerce in the People’s Republic of China has released its 2009 White Paper on the State of American Business in China.

April 28, 2009

 

Global software association hunts second DC lobbyist

The importance of recruiting frontline government affairs professionals for lobbying roles in Washington has been highlighted by a recent people move at the Entertainment Software Association.

April 27, 2009

 

PublicAffairsAsia expands digital offering

PublicAffairsAsia is set to expand its scope and influence with the launch of a series of new digital innovations over the coming weeks.

April 24, 2009

 

World Bank to lobby for Asian action on business

The World Bank is set to lobby Asian governments to accelerate the reforms required to secure and expand foreign investment.

April 24, 2009

 

EU Chamber in China meet to discuss procurement

The European Union Chamber of Commerce has met with the National Development and Reform Commission to discuss a range of public procurement issues.

April 24, 2009

 

Davidson appointed to global BM health post

Burson-Marsteller has announced the appointment of Lisa Davidson as its managing director of its global healthcare practice.

April 20, 2009

 

MS&L appoints new healthcare chief

MS&L has appointed Ken Hirata as director of its healthcare practice in Japan.

April 20, 2009

 

Indian election website launched

Internet Search Engine Sagoon www.sagoon.com has announced the launch of a dedicated site India Election 09.

April 17, 2009

 

Vietnamese PM welcomes more Australian investment

The Vietnamese Government will create favourable conditions for Australian businesses to invest and operate in Viet Nam according to Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung.

April 17, 2009

 

New communications drive urged to restore global confidence in Thailand

Thailand urgently requires a major communications and promotional drive to restore international investor confidence, business leaders have said.

April 17, 2009

 

Weber Shandwick appoints new PA chief in Shanghai

Weber Shandwick has appointed Miranda Cai director of its public affairs practice in Shanghai.

April 15, 2009

 

Ford Motors appoints Lawson to top PA role

The Ford Motor Company has announced the appointment of Pete Lawson as vice president of government relations.

April 15, 2009

 

Edelman makes senior CSR appointment

Edelman has named Jane Madden to the new position of senior vice president, corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability.

April 14, 2009

 

Weber Shandwick makes Malaysia appointment

Weber Shandwick has appointed Rozani Jainudeen as its general manager in Malaysia.

April 13, 2009

 

Ogilvy wins BFA contract

The Boao Forum for Asia has reappointed Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide to manage its annual Asian leadership conference.

April 13, 2009

 

India remains 'indispensable regional actor'

A leading US think tank has said that India remains an "indispensable regional actor" in the relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

April 10, 2009

 

Multinationals prepare for Chinese health push

The healthcare and technology sectors are preparing for a fresh government affairs push into China following the announcement of a US$124 billion investment programme.

April 10, 2009

 

Taiwan rejects corruption survey

President Ma Ying-jeou has rejected an international survey showing that Taiwan is more corrupt than China.

April 09, 2009

 

Facebook reaches 200 million

International networking website Facebook has welcomed its 200 millionth user, co-founder Mark Zuckerberg has said.

April 09, 2009

 

Former Clinton aide joins PR firm Gutenberg

Gutenberg Communications has announced that former White House comms chief Loretta Ucelli to be come a senior adviser to its global client base.

April 07, 2009

 

BBC to cover Indian election via train

The BBC will report the forthcoming Indian general election on a train that will carry journalists and reporters around the country.

April 07, 2009

 

Expectations grow ahead of ASEAN summit

Senior policy and business figures are urging Asian political leaders to use this week's ASEAN summit to assert a key role in a new world economic order.

April 06, 2009

 

Rolls-Royce appoints new global comms chief

Richard Carter has joined Rolls-Royce Motor Cars as director of global communications.

April 06, 2009

 

Lobby groups welcome G20 focus on stimulus and development

Asian and global lobby groups have welcomed the outcome of the G20 meeting despite warning that it has "fallen short" on measures needed to respond to the global economic situation.

April 01, 2009

 

Asia Society announces 2009 young leaders

The Asia Society has announced the names of the 2009 class of Fellows for its Asia 21 Young Leaders Initiative, the leading cross-sectoral leadership development programme in the Asia-Pacific region.

April 01, 2009

 

Weber Shandwick wins new pharma contract

Weber Shandwick has won a new contact for its healthcare practice in China with the Belgium-based global biopharma firm UCB PHARMA.

April 01, 2009

 

Edelman promotes Pereira to new India role

Global PR operator Edelman has announced senior changes to its India team in a move which sees Roger Pereira become global vice chairman.

March 26, 2009

 

Weber Shandwick launches South East Asia PA practice

Weber Shandwick has announced an expansion to its growing public affairs practice with a push into South East Asia.

March 23, 2009

 

Porter Novelli appoints global health director

Public relations firm Porter Novelli has named Peter Pitts as its director of global healthcare provision.

March 18, 2009

 

Ketchum extends its 'green footprint'

Ketchum has obtained two new "green" Hong Kong contracts.

March 18, 2009

 

Vietnam calls for more foreign investment action

Vietnamese deputy prime minister Nguyen Sinh Hung has insisted the country's economy will prove resilient.

March 18, 2009

 

China uses new law to stop Coca-Cola deal

The Chinese government has rejected Coca-Cola's $2.3 billion bid to buy the Huiyan Juice Group, the Ministry of Commerce has announced.

March 18, 2009

 

Think London hosts Chinese business week

London is set to use its upcoming status as Olympic city to score new client wins.

March 17, 2009

 

APCO strikes global partnership deal

APCO Worldwide has signed a partnership deal with BCM International Regulatory Analytics LLC.

March 13, 2009

 

Ketchum makes senior digital appointment

Ketchum Greater China has appointed Clement Lau as senior vice president of digital communications.

March 13, 2009

 

Business still optimistic about China says new survey

Companies remain optimistic about their future in China despite a 40 per cent drop in investment budgets, according to a survey conducted by The American Chamber of Commerce in South China.

March 13, 2009

 

HK puts government website to tender

The government of Hong Kong is understood to be engaged in an invitation only tender to reconfigure and enhance the gov.hk website.

March 12, 2009

 

UAE government appoints media spokesmen

The UAE government has announced plans to create a media spokesman for each individual ministry.

March 12, 2009

 

Exclusive survey: China to lead Asia PA growth

China is set to lead the growth in public affairs and government relations activity in Asia, according to an exclusive survey of the region’s consultancy CEOs.

March 09, 2009

 

PublicAffairsAsia extends reach and scope

As the latest edition of PublicAffairsAsia magazine is published, the network is set to unveil further expansion with the publication of a groundbreaking report and the launch of a pan-Asian public policy and communications awards programme.

March 07, 2009

 

Chinese premier pledges tough fight against corruption

The Chinese government will strengthen its efforts to promote clean government and combat corruption, Premier Wen Jiabao said in a speech the National Peoples Congress (NPC) on Thursday.

March 06, 2009

 

JWT launches online anxiety indicator

JWT has launched AnxietyIndex.com, an on-line version of their 2003 initiative, which could be a potentially useful tool for the public affairs and corp comms professional.

March 06, 2009

 

Korea and New Zealand set to agree an FTA

Korea and New Zealand have agreed to launch formal negotiations for a free trade agreement this year during their leaders' summit in Auckland.

March 03, 2009

 

India prepares for uncertain election

India will hold a general election between April 16 and May 13, election officials have announced.

March 03, 2009

 

GolinHarris appoints public affairs vice president

GolinHarris Public Affairs has announced the appointment of global energy expert, Mike Schmidt as vice president.

March 02, 2009

 

Newell PR win cleantech contract

Hong Kong based Newell Public Relations along with Sterling Communications in the US, Johnson King in Europe and Pressman in India, have secured the global contract for The Cleantech Group, a company specialising in clean technologies.

February 27, 2009

 

Korea and ASEAN cement free trade deal

Korea and all members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations agreed a free-trade agreement in manufactured goods and services at the ASEAN summit.

February 27, 2009

 

Japanese teenagers addicted to mobiles

A new survey has shown Japanese teenagers send or receive dozens of emails a day.

February 26, 2009

 

Weber Shandwick launches new PR benchmarks

Weber Shandwick has launched a new range of communications metrics to assist clients to evaluate a return on investment across online and offline campaigns.

February 26, 2009

 

New media will play greater role in Singapore government

Singapore prime minister Lee Hsien Loong has said his government recognised the growing reach and influence of new media.

February 26, 2009

 

Former PM Blair establishes political consultancy

Britain's former prime minister Tony Blair has established a global consultancy offering political and economic advice.

February 22, 2009

 

Patton Boggs woos Wisner for India lobby

American lobbying firm Patton Boggs LLP is to bolster its Indian capability with the appointment of American diplomat Frank G. Wisner next month.

February 20, 2009

 

Ogilvyhealth appoints new Asian director

OgilvyHealth has announced the appointment of Stephanie Stamatakou as its new regional director.

February 20, 2009

 

Kreab and Gavin Anderson announce merger

Kreab and Gavin Anderson & Company have announced a merger which combines the two firms into a major global force in strategic communications consultancy.

February 16, 2009

 

Microsoft appoints new corporate comms VP

Microsoft Corp has announced that Simon Sproule will join the company as vice president of corporate communications.

February 13, 2009

 

Edelman: Asia business faces slump in trust

Trust in business in Asia and around the world has fallen significantly in the wake of corporate misconduct, food safety scandals and the global economic meltdown, according to the latest Edelman Trust Barometer.

February 12, 2009

 

Gavin Anderson makes two PA moves

Gavin Anderson has further strengthened its public affairs capability in Asia-Pacific with two senior appointments.

February 11, 2009

 

Weber Shandwick China MD wins award

Weber Shandwick China managing director David Liu has been awarded the industry achievement Award by the Chinese Public Relations Association.

February 11, 2009

 

South Korean government appoints US lobbyist

The South Korean government has signed a contract with a US lobbying firm in efforts to facilitate the U.S. Congress's ratification of the Korea-U.S. free trade agreement.

February 09, 2009

 

Top Chinese officials strengthen Latin American links

Two top Chinese officials have started visits to Latin America as part of an intensified effort to strengthen ties with the region.

February 09, 2009

 

WE to host online health debate

Healthcare online regulations are to be discussed at a live event and a webcast hosted by Waggener Edstrom Worldwide.

February 09, 2009

 

United makes key public affairs appointments

United Airlines has named General Motors communications vice-president Tony Cervone as chief communications officer and senior vice president of corporate communications.

February 06, 2009

 

Gavin Anderson bolsters global network

Gavin Anderson & Company has agreed to integrate BAN, one of the leading communications firms in Portugal into its international network.

February 05, 2009

 

New guide to Asian PR published

A newly published guide to the Asian PR industry offers insights into the theory and ethics of the industry as well as practical advice for pr practitioners and University students across the region.

February 05, 2009

 

Openwave appoints new government relations chief

Gobal software corporation,Openwave has announced the appointment of Bruce K. Posey as senior vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary.

February 04, 2009

 

Mobile company appoints new Malaysian corp comms boss

DiGi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd has appointed Zaiton Hj Idrus to head its Corporate Affairs Division.

February 04, 2009

 

Kelly becomes AIG vice-chairman

American International Group has announced that Anastasia Kelly has been named vice chairman, reporting to AIG chairman and chief executive officer Edward Liddy.

February 02, 2009

 

Low becomes Levi's corporate affairs chief

Levi's has drafted in Celina Low to oversee a wide ranging corporate affairs brief which includes government affairs and public policy.

February 01, 2009

 

China in talks over record foreign investment

State-owned aluminium giant ChinalCo is engaged in talks with Rio Tinto over what could become the country's biggest ever overseas investment outside the financial services sector.

February 01, 2009

 

New appointees join ABAC

The United States Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Advisory Council (ABAC) has announced a series of new members.

January 30, 2009

 

Crisis comms 'must have PA input' says new report

Companies must engage with PA practices and give greater consideration to stakeholders and timelines when calculating how to respond to a crisis, according to a new report.

January 30, 2009

 

McGraw-Hill appoints new global comms chief

The McGraw-Hill Companies have announced the appointment of D. Edward (Ted) Smyth as executive vice president of corporate affairs.

January 30, 2009

 

Davos: World leaders discuss global crisis

The world's political and business leaders are adopting a pessimistic but resolute stance as they debate the deepening economic crisis at the high profile Davos World Forum in Switzerland.

January 29, 2009

 

Snoddon becomes APCO Asia CEO

APCO Worldwide has announced that its vice chairman Larry Snoddon is to become chief executive officer of the firm’s Asia regional business.

January 29, 2009

 

Korea launches national branding initiative

The Korean government has launched a new panel to raise the international profile of the country.

January 23, 2009

 

Bahrain joins with IT industry in piracy clampdown

Microsoft Gulf has joined forces with the Bahrain Ministry of Information on the latest software piracy offensives in Manama.

January 22, 2009

 

Ogilvy boosts Beijing team

Ogilvy has announced the appointment of Sandy Moore as director of Ogilvy PR and Sarah Guldin as a senior manager for the Ogilvy Group in Beijing.

January 22, 2009

 

Barroso emphasises close EU ties with China

Jose Manuel Barroso, the European Commission president, has said that the European Union places great importance to developing relations with China.

January 21, 2009

 

EU and Korea make 'significant progress' on free trade deal

Korea and the European Union have made progress on free trade talks at a meeting in Seoul.

January 21, 2009

 

Asia prepares for Obama engagement

Business and political leaders are preparing for renewed engagement with the US after Barack Obama used his inauguration speech to pledge a "new era of responsibility" at a time of international uncertainty.

January 20, 2009

 

EU calls for greater Japanese access

The European rail and aviation lobbies are to step up their efforts to access Japanese markets .

January 19, 2009

 

Ogilvy PR appoints new MD

Ogilvy PR has announced the promotion of Debby Cheung to group MD in China.

January 19, 2009

 

Fleishman-Hillard secures Singapore promotion contract

Fleishman-Hillard has added to its public affairs portfolio by securing the contract to promote a "gracious" image on behalf of the Singapore Kindness Movement.

January 16, 2009

 

Donohue gives assurance on US-Korean free trade

The head of the US Chamber of Commerce has downplayed suggestions that the Obama administration may turn its back on its trade agreement with Korea.

January 16, 2009

 

Elaf Bank appoints new PR head

Bahrain-based Islamic investment bank Elaf has appointed Nasser Haram to head up its public relations and support services department.

January 15, 2009

 

New Zealand summit will tackle key economic issues

New Zealand prime minister John Key has announced the government will hold a "jobs summit" to look at ideas that will keep New Zealanders employed in 2009.

January 14, 2009

 

Chinese take tough line on drug and food safety

China has vowed to take a hard line on any breach of its regulations governing drug and food safety.

January 14, 2009

 

Trong calls for greater regional co-operation

Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong has called upon Asia-Pacific lawmakers to enter into discussions to promote increased regional co-operation and to adopt wide-ranging measures to help the region tackle any challenges that arise during 2009.

January 14, 2009

 

Amnesty appoints new government relations MD

Amnesty International USA (AIUSA) has announced the appointment of Betsy Wright Hawkings as the new Managing Director of Government Relations.

January 14, 2009

 

China web users reach 298m

China's fast-growing population of Internet users has risen to 298 million after overtaking the United States last year to become the world's largest.

January 14, 2009

 

Deloitte predicts major governmental change

The role of government will change dramatically as a result of the global financial crisis, a leading Indian analyst has said.

January 13, 2009

 

Hong Kong tops economic freedom index

Hong Kong has been named as the world's freest economy - retaining the top position for the 15th consecutive year according to an annual study.

January 13, 2009

 

Citadel Capital appoints corp comms chief

Citadel Capital has announced the appointment of Ghada Hammouda to the position of Head of Corporate Communications.

January 12, 2009

 

New portal launches to promote women's economic role

A new global website promoting gender equality as a means of achieving lasting economic advances has gone live.

January 12, 2009

 

H&K recruits Singapore MP

Global PR and PA provider Hill & Knowlton has recruited a local Singaporean member of parliament to its expanding public affairs practice.

January 08, 2009

 

China moves to restrict overseas investment

The prospects for "China-out" public affairs and investment activity could be restricted by draft regulations which would force companies to seek approval for any foreign investment over US$100 million.

January 08, 2009

 

ASEAN summit moved amid security fears

New Thai prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has announced that the 14th Asean summit will now be held at Hua Hin, about 200km south of Bangkok and will take place between February 27and March 1.

January 08, 2009

 

Coca-Cola dismisses boycott calls

Coca-Cola has dismissed calls by former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad who demanded a boycott of US products as a result of the country's pro-Israeli stance.

January 07, 2009

 

Toyota overhauls PA practice

Japanese car manufacturer Toyota has announced a major overhaul of its global public affairs operation.

January 06, 2009

 

PublicAffairsAsia to launch industry survey

PublicAffairsAsia is set to conduct an in-depth survey of the public affairs, corporate communications and government relations sectors in Asia.

January 06, 2009

 

UK parliament calls for tougher lobbying rules

A major review of the rules governing those seeking to influence the British parliament could be in prospect after a parliamentary report criticised the industry.

January 06, 2009

 

China maintained strong M&A activity in 2008.

China's mergers and acquisitions activity remained resilient in 2008 despite the global financial situation, making it the best performer in Asia according to a new report.

January 06, 2009

 

Biden heads to South-West Asia

US Vice President-elect Joe Biden is heading to Southwest Asia on a US congressional trip.

January 06, 2009

 

Corporate PR vital advises leading Japanese expert

Public relations is vital for the internal and external strategy of a company, corporate executives have been told at a symposium in Japan.

December 30, 2008

 

Industry ends year of strong performance

This year has been a solid 12 months for communications firms in Asia although next year will present challenges and risks but also potential growth for the PA and PR sectors, early stage research has suggested.

December 30, 2008

 

New Thai protests prevent crucial parliamentary sitting

Thousands of protesters have blockaded Thailand's parliament forcing new premier Abhisit Vejjajiva to delay his maiden policy speech prolonging the long running political crisis.

December 29, 2008

 

South Korean regulatory reform on course

The Lee Myung-bak government's initiative to overhaul domestic business conditions has set off on a strong footing, the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry has said.

December 24, 2008

 

Two key bills passed in Malaysia

Barisan Nasional has managed to get two reform bills on corruption and the judiciary passed without a single amendment.

December 23, 2008

 

Catilina Marketing appoints new government affairs chief

The Catalina Marketing Corporation has announced the appointment of Claire DeMatteis as executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary with responsiblity for managing all corporate legal and governmental matters.

December 22, 2008

 

Vietnam advised to change its investment policies

Vietnam needs to adjust its investment policies to make the most effective use of foreign direct investment a workshop in Ha Noi has been told.

December 22, 2008

 

China to abide by WTO regime

China has said it is opposed to protectionism and respected global trading rules, reacting to a US and Mexican complaint about its trade practices filed at the World Trade Organisation.

December 22, 2008

 

ASEAN Summit moved to February 2009

The Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean) Foreign Ministers’ Retreat has agreed to reschedule the Asean Summit to the third week of February 2009.

December 15, 2008

 

Weber Shandwick appoints Brussels CEO

Weber Shandwick has announced major changes to senior staff in its European Union offices.

December 13, 2008

 

East Asia 'coping well' with crisis

East Asian economies are better equipped to deal with the global economic slowdown, the World Bank has said.

December 12, 2008

 

PublicAffairsAsia magazine launched

PublicAffairsAsia has continued its expansion with the publication of its first quarterly magazine.

December 07, 2008

 

Cambodia pledges new anti-corruption law

Cambodia's prime minister has asked foreign donors to continue providing economic assistance despite the global financial crisis and promised the passing of an anti-corruption law.

December 05, 2008

 

Tripartite summit to be held

The new Japanese premier Taro Aso will attend a high level tripartite summit with China and South Korea.

December 05, 2008

 

Japan freezes loan-aid in fight against Vietnamese corruption

Japan has frozen low-interest loans to Vietnam until it takes "meaningful" steps to eliminate corruption in its public works programmes.

December 05, 2008

 

Call for ASEAN summit to be held quickly

Singapore has urged that the summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Countries be held as early as next January.

December 04, 2008

 

Chinese pledge to strengthen Sino-US trade

China has voiced hope of success for the Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED) with the United States later this week, saying that both sides will make efforts to promote the healthy and stable development of Sino-US economic relations.

December 03, 2008

 

Thai political vacuum halts policy-making

The political vacuum created by the Thai Constitutional Court ruling on Tuesday could result in further damage to Thailand's economy as key spending measures are delayed pending the appointment of a new government.

December 03, 2008

 

Epstein move to Qantas sparks lobby row

Kevin Rudd's former chief of staff David Epstein will be the new corporate affairs boss for Qantas reporting directly to Allan Joyce.

November 26, 2008

 

APEC leadership pledges to overcome crisis

Leaders of Asia-Pacific nations have closed their annual summit by declaring that the global economic crisis can be overcome by 2010.

November 24, 2008

 

Leslie: China 'will drive consultancy growth'

Chinese multinationals are set to increase their spend and focus on public affairs, government relations and PR as they shift their business into Western markets, Weber Shandwick chairman Jack Leslie says today.

November 21, 2008

 

China vital say embattled auto manufacturers

As it lobbies hard for a government-funded bail-out General Motors Corp has said China could become vital to the survival of the US automotive industry.

November 19, 2008

 

Global plastics industry lobby group launched

The Kellen Company has announced the creation of a new plastics industry division to represent the global industry.

November 17, 2008

 

Dow Chemical expands Middle East PA division

Dow Chemical has expanded its public affairs division in India, the Middle East and Africa with the appointment of Mira Meghdessian as media and community relations manager.

November 17, 2008

 

China growth secured by $43bn infrastructure programme

A leading State Council researcher has projected that the Chinese government will spend US$43.92 billion on its stimulus plan in order to secure nine per cent growth next year.

November 14, 2008

 

Transition team announces new lobby rules

A major overhaul of US lobbying rules is to be unveiled by the incoming US administration.

November 12, 2008

 

Regester Larkin announces Hong Kong move

Regester Larkin has announced a move into the Asian market with the launch of a Hong Kong office.

November 09, 2008

 

KKR appoints McKillop as director of global communications

Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. has announced that Japan expert Peter McKillop is to become director of global communications.

November 07, 2008

 

Thai retail lobby withdraws from government committees

The lobby group representing Thai retailers has broken off its links with the government review into the sector after commerce ministers fast-tracked legislation without consultation.

November 02, 2008

 

British prime minister to lead Gulf business lobby

The British prime minister is leading a business delegation to the Middle East as the UK seeks Gulf investment to stabilise the global economy.

November 01, 2008

 

Credit crisis: Call for action on corporate lobbyists

The global financial crisis should result in greater restrictions on professional lobbyists, a leading US-Asian commentator has said.

October 31, 2008

 

Critics vow to fight Indonesia anti-porn laws

Campaign groups and opposition politicians have vowed to continue their fight against new anti-pornography laws.

October 30, 2008

 

US Congress approves second Hmong rights lobby

The US Congress has approved Hmong National Development Inc. as a recognised lobbying organisation in Washington DC despite confusion over the group's name.

October 28, 2008

 

PublicAffairsAsia expands partnerships

The PublicAffairsAsia network has continued to develop its external presence by becoming the partner for two major upcoming Asian public affairs related events.

October 24, 2008

 

PublicAffairsAsia expands in India and China

PublicAffairsAsia has continued its growth with the launch of two new websites focussing on the expanding PA and corporate communications industries in China and India.

October 17, 2008

 

APCO announces triple hire to growing China business

Global public affairs consultancy APCO has announced three senior China hires as it continues its investment drive in emerging markets.

October 16, 2008

 

Credit crisis: Business leaders and politicians 'failed communications test'

The global credit crisis has been exacerbated by a failure to communicate effectively with employees and the public, according to a survey released today.

October 15, 2008

 

Tsang pledges action as Hong Kong faces 'uncertain times'

The Hong Kong government is ready and willing to take "decisive action" to avert the impact of the global credit crisis, chief executive Donald Tsang has said.

October 14, 2008

 

US nuclear lobby prepares for India push

The US nuclear industry is set to mount a trade lobby in India following the presidential signing of the new civilan nuclear deal between America and the US.

October 09, 2008

 

JPMorgan announces top-level global government hires

JPMorgan Chase & Co has announced two senior hires to its global government relations team.

October 05, 2008

 

Kraus: Emerging markets become more important

Reversing the financial crisis requires better global leadership and presents risks and opportunities to the PA industry, one of the world's leading figures in business advocacy has said.

October 04, 2008

 

McDonald's USA appoints new comms chief

McDonald's USA has announced that Bill Whitman has been promoted to vice president of US communications

September 24, 2008

 

Scottish government mounts Asia trade lobby

The Scottish government has announced plans to step up its efforts to attract business from the Asia Pacific region.

September 16, 2008

 

Telstra hires Shaw ahead of broadband lobbying push

Australia's telecoms giant Telstra has drafted in former Liberal adviser James Shaw as it prepares for a lobbying push amid reform of the national broadband network.

September 16, 2008

 

Anti-trust laws will assist Coca-Cola takeover insists Lee

Coca-Cola's government relations chief has insisted that the new anti-monopoly laws in China will add transparency to the proposed Huiyuan takeover.

September 11, 2008

 

EU chamber warns of China protectionist lobby

Lobbying by domestic Chinese interests is leading to a culture of economic nationalism which will deter inward investment, according to a report by the EU chamber of commerce.

September 09, 2008

 

BAE appoints Scopes to develop India links

BAE Systems has drafted in its UK head of government relations and business development to take charge of operations in India.

September 07, 2008

 

US consul calls for further HK democracy

Further moves towards greater democracy in Hong Kong are important for commerce, the new US consul general has said.

September 04, 2008

 

Coca-Cola seeks approval for Huiyuan bid

A major government relations offensive is set to be undertaken by Coca-Cola as it seeks to execute the biggest ever foreign takeover of a Chinese company.

September 04, 2008

 

Air Pacific appoints government relations chief

Air Pacific has appointed Jona Sevura as manager for government and industry affairs.

August 26, 2008

 

Scotch whisky lobby hails China trade mark move

Scotland's whisky producers are raising their glasses in a toast to China, following its decision to give the industry legal protection in a country which is now the fourth largest blended whisky market in the world.

August 26, 2008

 

Goldman appoints Malan amid SWF push

Goldman Sachs has appointed senior Washington lobbyist Todd Malan as it seeks to ramp up its effort on behalf of sovereign wealth funds in the US.

August 22, 2008

 

US beef exporter in Japan lobbying push

Tyson Foods spent more than half a million dollars in three months on US lobbying on issues including the ongoing partial ban on beef exports to Japan and South Korea.

August 15, 2008

 

Coca-Cola spends US$600,000 in lobby push

Drinks giant Coca-Cola Company spent over US$600,000 in the second quarter of this year in a lobbying offensive which targetted global policy in countries including Thailand and China.

August 06, 2008

 

Trade groups welcome Indian 3G deal

Indian telcoms lobbying and trade groups have welcomed new 3G allocation plans despite measures which restrict prospects for market entrants.

August 02, 2008

 

Amcham welcomes competition law

The American Chamber of Commerce in China has welcomed the introduction of new anti-monoply laws.

August 01, 2008

 

China lifts internet restrictions

Civil rights groups have welcomed a partial lifting of the internet firewall which blocks access to controversial sites in China.

August 01, 2008

 

Chinese patriotism boosted by Olympics

The build up to the Olympics has led to a surge in Chinese pride and patriotism, a survey commissioned by Ogilvy PR and Millward Brown ACSR has found.

August 01, 2008

 

HK commerce secures trade liberalisation

Business and trade groups have welcomed the latest round of liberalisation measures between Hong Kong and the mainland.

July 31, 2008

 

WS promotes Barodawala in Mumbai

Weber Shandwick's Indian operation Corporate Voice has announced that Nazneen Barodawala is to head up the company’s Mumbai operation.

July 23, 2008

 

New Asia Pacific Co-Chair for O&M

Tim Isaac is to replace Miles Young as co-chairman of Ogilvy & Mather Asia Pacific.

July 23, 2008

 

Toyota overhauls US comms team

Japanese car manufacturer Toyota has announced a raft of changes to its senior Californian-based communications team.

July 22, 2008

 

IHG overhauls Asia Pacific communications

Intercontinental Hotels Group has announced a series of changes to its Asia Pacific communications team.

July 11, 2008

 

Jaguar Land Rover overhauls government relations

Tata-owned Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced the creation of a new global government affairs department.

July 07, 2008

 

Edelman adds heavyweight as adviser

Former Burson-Marsteller CEO Chris Komisarjevsky has joined Edelman as strategic adviser to senior management.

July 07, 2008

 

Amcham China holds legal training workshops

The American Chamber of Commerce has announced plans to equip Chinese officials with the knowledge and skills required to effectively introduce new anti-monopoly laws (AML).

June 30, 2008

 

PRCA's Ingham selects Echo as partner

The Public Relations Consultants Association in London has announced a partnership with PR and marketing evaluation firm Echo.

June 16, 2008

 

HK chamber chooses chairman

Andrew Brandler has been elected as the chairman of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce.

May 16, 2008

 

Weber Shandwick wins Samsung contract

Samsung Electronics has named Weber Shandwick as its Australian PR provider following a hotly-contested pitch.

March 03, 2008

 

New head for Golin Harris Singapore office

GolinHarris has appointed Christina Cheang as managing director of its Singapore office.

February 28, 2008

 

Edelman acquires Russia and Ukraine business

Edelman has continued its emerging market acquisition drive by taking a significant stake in specialist PR firms in Moscow and the Ukraine.

January 28, 2008