-
Iraq is working to increase oil exports through new partnerships with Oman and international firms, aiming to diversify routes and boost capacity. The country’s export levels are near maximum, with ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and reduce dependence on Gulf shipping routes, amid regional geopolitical tensions and market uncertainty.
-
French and Australian authorities are investigating TikTok and social media platforms over concerns about their impact on youth mental health and safety. France's parliament recommends banning social media for under 15s and imposing curfews, while Australia plans to ban stalking and deepfake apps, reflecting growing regulatory efforts worldwide.
-
As of October 2025, Stellantis is moving Jeep Compass production from Brampton, Ontario, to Belvidere, Illinois, as part of a $13 billion US investment plan aimed at avoiding US tariffs. Canadian officials, including PM Mark Carney and Ontario Premier Doug Ford, have expressed disappointment and warned of legal action if commitments to Canadian workers are broken. The move highlights ongoing Canada-US trade tensions amid tariff disputes.
-
Recent measles outbreaks in the US and Canada, linked to ongoing transmission since early 2025, have caused both countries to lose their WHO elimination status. The outbreaks are driven by low vaccination rates and community resistance, with authorities warning that the virus may continue spreading into 2026.
-
On December 1-3, 2025, Canada became the first non-EU country to join the EU's €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense initiative, granting Canadian defense firms access to EU-backed loans and reducing reliance on U.S. military procurement. Concurrently, Canada struck an energy and trade deal with Alberta to expand oil exports to Asia via a new pipeline, relaxing federal emissions caps in exchange for stronger carbon pricing and carbon capture projects, despite opposition from British Columbia and Indigenous groups. Canada also restarted stalled trade talks with India aiming to double bilateral trade by 2030.