Economy and trade

As Lebanese PM lays out reform package, protesters demand more

Although the Lebanese government has unveiled a set of reforms to calm popular protests, it appears unlikely the proposal will satisfy demonstrators' demands.

Lebanon

Why Israel should expand work permits for Palestinians

In order to end the situation where Palestinians pay thousands of shekels to obtain work permits in an illegal manner, Israel should expand the number of permits and offer job seekers some hope.

Palestine

Turkey-China economic cooperation on rise

Turkey has a special place in China’s Belt and Road initiative, as confirmed by the increase in Chinese direct investment in Turkey.

Turkey

Palestinians seek Egypt’s support to join free trade pact

Palestinians are anxiously awaiting admittance to an Arab free trade agreement that should help reduce their economic dependence on Israel.

Palestine

Is Egypt encouraging investments in gold mines?

The Egyptian government plans to add the taxes and royalties system to the new amendments of the Mineral Resources Law, thus replacing the current production-sharing system in place.

Egypt

Will revival of joint technical committees help save the PA?

With the reactivation of joint technical committees authorized by the Paris Protocol, the Palestinian Authority is hopeful about recovering monies owed it by Israel resulting from undisclosed tax withholding information and corruption.

Palestine

Turkish economy faces fresh turmoil over Syrian operation

Ankara’s new military campaign in Syria has raised the specter of fresh trouble for the crisis-hit Turkish economy, but the government hopes to compensate with political gains.

Syria

Why Egypt’s economic reforms aren’t enough to win over the street

A new report shows significant progress in Egypt, but demonstrations are placing new pressures on President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to do more to battle corruption.

Egypt

Decision to ban e-cigarettes in Gaza sparks mockery on social media

The Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip issued a decision to ban e-cigarettes, claiming that they are bad for citizens' health, which sparked angry reactions.

Palestine

What to expect from Putin's visit to Saudi Arabia

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit Saudi Arabia on Oct. 14 with a set of economic and security issues on the agenda.

Saudi Arabia

Cairo attempts to quell anger following spate of protests

In the wake of protests, the Egyptian government OKs some small price reductions and may allow a little greater press freedom.

Egypt

Israel hampering Palestinian economy at its own risk

Under the policies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Donald Trump, the Palestinian economy, which was supposed to grow and bolster peace and security in the process, has become a source of utter despair for Palestinians.

Palestine