Nikkei reports Japan will assist Middle Eastern countries in building an oil pipeline that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz.

Hengqin Guangdong–Macau Deep Cooperation Zone’s industrial development bureau issued a provisional support measure for building the Macau–Pearl River West international air transport hub, effective through Dec. 31, 2028. For international freight forwarders that commission Macau air carriers or air‑cargo sales agents to move import/export shipments via the Hengqin port and Macau International Airport, the scheme subsidizes 12% of total freight; each applicant’s annual subsidy is capped at 12 mln yuan. Eligible Macau‑funded firms and designated “seedling cultivation” enterprises receive 120% of the applicable subsidy standard to strengthen Macau–Hengqin industrial coordination and support moderate economic diversification in Macau.

Rice prices have risen more than 47% since the Iran conflict began, Hedgeye analysis shows. Disruptions to fuel, fertilizer and shipping are the primary drivers; analysts say global rice supply remains broadly ample but higher costs are concentrated in freight, fertilizer and premium varieties such as basmati. The rice rally is spilling into broader commodity markets and, amid rising geopolitical tensions, could put upside pressure on crude oil prices.