PROJECT ROUND-UP
1. UNITED KINGDOM
From 2026 in the UK, self-driving cars without a safety driver could be available for people to book via an app for the first time. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has confirmed that the government will introduce self-driving commercial pilots on England’ s roads from spring 2026. Firms will be able to pilot small scale‘ taxiand bus-like’ services without a safety driver, which could be available to members of the public to book via an app. There will be a potential wider rollout when the full Automated Vehicles Act becomes law from the second half of 2027.
2. GERMANY
Chemical producer, Dow, has announced the closure of three European chemical plants, impacting around 800 jobs. It will close an ethylene cracker in Böhlen, Germany in the fourth quarter of 2027, chlor-alkali & vinyl assets in Schkopau, Germany in the fourth quarter of 2027 and a basics siloxanes plant in Barry, UK in the mid-year of 2026. Potential decommissioning and demolition will continue into 2029 as needed. Dow will involve local stakeholders as defined in each country and in compliance with relevant processes.
3. THAILAND
Radisson Hotel Group has announced the opening of Radisson Hotel Don Mueang Bangkok, a new addition to its expanding portfolio in Thailand. Perfectly positioned just minutes from Don Mueang International Airport, the 89-key hotel offers a contemporary escape for travellers seeking comfort, convenience and cultural connection. The location also encourages exploration, with nearby attractions such as the Royal Thai Air Force Museum, Chatuchak Weekend Market and the events hub, IMPACT Muang Thong Thani.
4. UAE
World Sports Summit, announced recently by Sheikh Hamdan, is set to take place in Dubai in December. The event is positioned as the world’ s largest gathering for sports leaders, with a strong focus on technology, innovation and future talent development. GGTech is at the forefront of driving the esports and gaming industry across the Middle East, with expertise spanning: how esports is reshaping youth engagement and talent development in line with the summit’ s vision; the intersection of AI, data and gamification in enhancing both player performance and fan experiences and the role of immersive technology and virtual competitions in diversifying the region’ s sports economy.
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