January 2, 2026

SalamAir Starts Low-Cost Direct Flights from Muscat to Damascus in 2026

SalamAir will fly direct between Muscat and Damascus twice weekly from May 2026. Tickets start at just OMR 59.99, offering budget travellers quick and easy access to historic Syria. The new route makes weekend trips and cultural visits affordable and hassle-free.

January 2, 2026

BWSSB to Supply Ultra-Pure Water to Peenya Industrial Area via New Tertiary Treatment Plant

BWSSB plans to supply 4 MLD ultra-pure treated water to Asia's largest Peenya Industrial Area. ₹27 crore pipeline and new tertiary plant will ensure clean, non-potable water.

January 2, 2026

US Slashes Tariffs on Italian Pasta After Companies Address Concerns

The US has cut proposed tariffs on Italian pasta from nearly 92% to as low as 2.26%. This move prevents big price hikes for US buyers and comes after Italian firms cooperated with US officials.

January 2, 2026

China Starts Taxing Condoms to Boost Falling Birth Rates

China has begun taxing condoms and contraceptives for the first time in 30 years to tackle its declining population. The government also offers child subsidies but birth rates keep falling amid high costs and aging.

January 2, 2026

Australian Privacy Watchdog Targets Businesses Over Customer Data Misuse

Australia’s privacy regulator has launched a major sweep targeting real estate agencies, car dealerships, and pubs for mishandling personal data. Firms risk fines up to $66,000 if they fail to protect customer information or keep it too long. Sixty businesses across six sectors face scrutiny in January.