HSN close down

KATHMANDU: Himalayan Snax and Noodles, the manufacturer of popular brands like Mayos, Hurray and Lekali, has closed down its production line from Wednesday. The factory was shut down unwillingly. “We have requested our workers to maintain minimum restrain, and follow agreement — reached between management and workers some time back — and the duty roster,” said Rabindra Silwal of the Himalayan Snax, adding that the factory will be reopened as soon as the workers show minimum commitment to the agreement they have signed with the management three months ago. — HNS.

US, Pak bank ink pact

WASHINGTON: The Federal Reserve announced on Thursday an agreement with Pakistan’s Habib Bank to clamp down on money-laundering. The New York branch of the Karachi-based lender agreed to tighten its internal controls so that it can, for instance, better identify all its account-holders to ensure no ‘suspicious activity.’ It also submitted to outside supervision by inspectors from the US central bank and the New York State banking department, according to the terms of the agreement. — AFP

Thailand, Japan FTA

BANGKOK: Thailand plans to sign a FTA with Japan next year that was nearly completed under the government of deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra. “We will speed up completing the FTA with Japan within this government,” finance minister said. The current government, which came to power following a bloodless coup in September that ousted Thaksin, is to govern until late next year when Thailand is scheduled to hold general elections. — AFP

Taiwan’s jobless rate

TAIPEI: Taiwan’s jobless rate fell slightly in November partly because of a drop in first-time job seekers. The rate amounted to 3.86 per cent compared to 3.9 per cent in October. In November, there was a decline of 11,000 jobless people among first-time job seekers. The unemployment rate in the January-November period — 3.91 per cent — was the lowest for that period in six years. The rate for the January-November period in 2000 was 2.97 per cent. — AP