IsDB Partnership Push: The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Chairman held high-level meetings in Brunei with the Finance II, Economy, Trade & Industry, and Religious Affairs ministers to advance the new IsDB Group–Brunei Country Engagement Framework 2026–2028, with focus on Islamic finance, food security, and SMEs aligned to Wawasan Brunei 2035. Air Connectivity Boost: Shenzhen Airlines launched a direct Brunei–Shenzhen route, strengthening links to China’s Greater Bay Area and supporting trade, investment, tourism, and business travel. Financial Sector Planning: Brunei’s central bank rolled out its Financial Sector Blueprint 2026–2035, setting direction for the next phase of financial development. Retail & Mobility: Imperial Motors (Inchcape) brought Subaru back to Brunei with a new showroom and authorised sales and aftersales support. Consumer Tech: Apple Music officially expanded to Brunei (along with Albania, Burkina Faso, and Pakistan), adding another mainstream streaming option for local users. Regional Trade Costs: Maersk announced a peak-season surcharge on dry-container shipments from Southeast Asia to Oceania from 1 Nov 2026, affecting Brunei among other markets. Business Promotions: Maju Motors’ BYD/Denza year-end promotion in Brunei runs to 31 Dec, offering a chance to win a house and other prizes. Global Context: China’s suspension of some oil product exports beyond Hong Kong and Macau may tighten fuel supplies for regional buyers including Singapore and Malaysia.