Disaster & Food Retail Impact: A 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit southern Philippines near Sarangani, killing at least one and collapsing buildings including a Jollibee fast-food site in General Santos City; tsunami warnings were issued across the region and authorities urged coastal residents to move to higher ground. Food Inflation Watch: Central Visayas stayed the Philippines’ inflation hotspot in May, with food inflation at 5.7% nationally but 10.8% overall in the region, driven by steep jumps in vegetables, seafood, and corn. Market Growth (Drinking Yogurt): New forecasts project the global drinking yogurt market rising from $34.0B (2021) to $62.8B by 2031, fueled by demand for immunity-supporting, organic, low-processed options. Fast-Food Expansion: Subway plans a record 350 new China stores in 2026, building on 320 openings in 2025 and pushing deeper into major and lower-tier cities. Beverage Retail Trend: St Ali is rolling out its Italo Disco Espresso concentrate in Coles nationwide, betting on continued consumer shift toward chilled coffee. Policy & Health (Sugar Taxes): Nigeria’s CETA bill debate at third reading is framed as a potential tax burden on production and jobs, while separate coverage highlights growing pressure around sugar-sweetened beverage taxes. Hospitality & Taxes (UK): UK chefs back Andy Burnham’s push to cut VAT on hospitality from 20% to 10%, arguing it could help struggling restaurants and pubs. Alcohol Tax Risk (South Africa): South African Breweries warns a proposed 20% beer tax hike on higher-alcohol drinks could boost illicit beer sales and destabilize the legal market. New Product/Brand Moves: Larrikin Bourbon won multiple ASCOT Awards and named a new Director of Hospitality and Brand Engagement to grow consumer experiences.