In a world first, Singapore and New Zealand have signed a legally binding bilateral agreement to ensure the continuous flow of essential supplies like food, fuel, and healthcare products during crises. This 'Agreement on Trade in Essential Supplies' aims to bolster resilience and prevent disruptions to critical trade routes.

Singapore and New Zealand on Monday signed the world’s first legally binding bilateral agreement to keep essential supplies – including food, fuel, healthcare products and chemical and construction materials – flowing even during crises. The Agreement on Trade in Essential Supplies was signed by Singapore’s Minister-in-charge of Energy, Science and Technology Tan See Leng and New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment Todd McClay at the Singapore-New Zealand Annual Leaders’ Meeting in...