localisation

A proposed EU bill would require electric vehicles sold in Europe to meet local-content rules, threatening Japanese automakers such as Toyota. If adopted, the 'Made in EU' legislation could raise costs or restrict market access for Japanese EVs, which rely heavily on parts and batteries made outside the bloc. Japanese industry is watching closely amid wider EU efforts to favor domestic manufacturing.

Covid infections are increasing again, with health observers describing a worldwide resurgence of the epidemic. In Italy, coverage highlights a renewed rise in cases, echoing warnings that the uptick is part of a broader global recrudescence rather than a localised wave. Commentators are watching case numbers closely as the new phase develops.

Forecasters warn that parts of Victoria could receive as much as three months' worth of rain as severe storms are expected across Australia's south-east this week. Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra are among the areas likely to be affected, with heavy rain raising concerns about localised flooding and disruption.

The Bureau of Meteorology expects 30 to 50mm of rain to fall in Melbourne over the coming days, with showers and storms also forecast for Canberra and Sydney on Saturday. Parts of Victoria could see three months' worth of rain in a short period as a storm system moves across Australia's south-east, raising concerns about localised flooding.

Lockheed Martin says it is in deep negotiations with foreign governments about producing Patriot air defence systems outside the United States, and Ukraine is among the countries hoping to secure domestic production capacity. Kyiv has long sought to build or co-produce Western air defence systems at home as Russian missile and drone strikes continue. The talks signal a shift toward localising Patriot manufacturing abroad, though terms, locations and timelines remain unclear.