Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
28 September 2023 | 10:51am SAST
2-min read

Photo: University of Newcastle

India’s decision to curtail imports from Canada amid diplomatic tension was discussed during an interview with Sanusha Naidu on the Asia Pacific report on Radio Islam International. During the interview, EU’s interest in Australia’s critical minerals was also covered. In addition, foreign investment in Japan’s property market was discussed.

India’s decision to curtail lentil imports from Canada has become a talking point in the evolving diplomatic tension between the two nations. The interview highlighted that India has paused certain key imports from Canada and also expressed concerns about allegations and accusations made by Canada regarding Sikh separatist activities. This diplomatic fallout between Ottawa and New Delhi has escalated to the point where trade dynamics are now at the forefront of engagement.

India’s use of trade as a means to convey its discontent with Canada’s allegations is noteworthy. The situation has the potential to disrupt the trade relationship significantly. Additionally, recent events in Canada, including the resignation of the Speaker of the House over connections to individuals with Nazi ties, have added complexity to the diplomatic challenges faced by the Trudeau government.

The interview also touched upon the growing geopolitical significance of critical minerals. The Australian Minister said that the EU must consider responsible production and environmental factors when seeking access to these minerals. Critical minerals are used for electric vehicles, military applications, drone technology, and supercomputing.

Critical minerals also have the potential to be used for military purposes, such as the recent repurposing of lithium by China to create supercapacitors for military equipment. The EU’s implementation of carbon and border taxes further underscores the importance of environmentally responsible practices in mineral production.

Shifting gears to the property market, the interview noted Japan’s property market’s vulnerability amid concerns about projects stalling and financial difficulties faced by property market companies, reminiscent of the global financial crisis triggered by Lehman Brothers in the U.S. Singapore has emerged as a leading player in the investor interest in Japan’s real estate, driven in part by the weakened yen.

Japan’s attractive property market, coupled with a depreciated currency, has enticed foreign investors. This trend is not unique to Japan, as other nations facing currency volatility, such as South Africa, have also experienced increased foreign investment in their property markets. However, this influx of foreign capital has raised concerns about potential affordability issues for local residents.

Listen to the Asia Pacific Report with Sanusha Naidoo on Sabaahul Muslim, hosted by Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.