Japan Consumer Policy: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi says Japan will restore the consumption tax rate on food and beverages to 8% after a two-year cut starting in April 2027, after concerns the lower rate could be seen as a “tax increase” when reversed. Malaysia Customer Access: Malaysia’s JPJ opened a new Bandar Tasik Selatan branch at Terminal Bersepadu Selatan, running until 10pm daily to make vehicle services easier for city residents. Fuel-Price Pass-Through: Malaysia’s subsidised diesel price drop to RM2.10 per litre from July is expected to ease logistics costs and help lower prices on diesel-dependent goods like vegetables. Retail Pricing Pressure: Bulgaria’s “Care Basket” initiative adds five more retail chains, aiming for at least 15% discounts on essentials and boosting domestic sourcing. Carrefour Plastic Push: Carrefour plans to cut plastic packaging by removing excess material, expanding refills and deposit-return options, and using savings to lower product costs. Home Services Marketplace: ApplianceAce launches a free 24/7 appliance-repair referral service connecting homeowners with vetted local technicians nationwide. Banking Switch: PNC completes its FirstBank conversion in Colorado and Arizona, bringing customers into PNC’s digital and branch network. Consumer Tech Costs: Azure Maps Gen1 pricing is set to be retired Sept. 15, 2026, with Gen2 migration potentially multiplying mapping costs for businesses. New Food Products: Tyson expands its Tyson Chicken Cups with Garlic & Herb, BBQ, and Harissa flavors. Customer Experience in Logistics: A new report highlights how “logistics is still a people business,” focusing on relationships and communication when shipments get stuck.