Excise & consumer taxes: The Philippines said its excise tax on carbonated drinks is the lowest in SEA at 5.13%, arguing the rate has been eroded by inflation and helped keep sugary drink volumes rising. Regional defence & trade: India and Vietnam agreed to deepen defence ties via joint production of military hardware, while also expanding trade through stronger supply chains and wider market access. Sports business in ASEAN: Indonesia’s PSSI says the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup (Sept 25–Oct 5) will spotlight Indonesian culture, while IMG will lead sales of media and sponsorship rights. Brunei-linked mobility & travel: The US published guidance for ESTA entry, listing Brunei among eligible countries and noting the application takes about 23 minutes on average. Tourism promotion: Sabre Brunei Travel Fair returns for its 21st edition (Sept 12–13) with 39 exhibitors across 90 booths, aiming to support Visit Brunei Year 2027. Energy security debate: ASEAN executives at APPEC warned that new refineries won’t solve supply risks unless feedstock flexibility, logistics, and regional coordination are in place. ASEAN haze & business disruption: Malaysia’s haze emergency in Serian shut hundreds of schools and sent children home, with health impacts logged as API levels stayed hazardous. Trade & investment signals: China-ASEAN Expo plans more than 50 trade activities and a larger exhibition footprint, pushing tech and cross-border business opportunities. Retirement & lifestyle economy: Malaysia topped a 2026 retirement destination ranking, with Brunei also placing in the global top 15—useful context for regional services demand.