Asia Daily: April 10, 2025
China
Australia turns down China's offer to 'join hands' to fight US tariffs. Australia has rejected a proposal from China to collaborate against U.S. tariffs, emphasizing its focus on trade diversification and national interest. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles stated that Australia would not align with China in global trade disputes and instead aims to strengthen ties with the EU, India, Indonesia, Britain, and the Middle East. The U.S. recently imposed a 10% tariff on Australian imports amid rising duties on China. Renju Jose, Reuters, April 9
Spain defends closer trade ties with China after US warns against 'cutting own throat'. Spain’s Agriculture Minister Luis Planas affirmed the country’s intention to deepen trade relations with China despite U.S. criticism, stating it aligns with both Spanish and EU interests. Speaking from Vietnam ahead of a visit to China, Planas rejected U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s remarks that closer EU-China ties would be self-destructive. Spain aims to act as a bridge between the EU and China while maintaining commitment to multilateral, rules-based trade. David Latona and Emma Pinedo, Reuters, April 9
China and EU discuss trade in response to U.S.' punitive tariffs. China and the European Union have begun talks to enhance economic cooperation and resume negotiations on electric vehicle pricing commitments following increased U.S. tariffs. Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and EU Commissioner Maros Sefcovic discussed restarting trade relief discussions and strengthening multilateral trade rules. China urged joint efforts to promote trade liberalization and WTO reform. The EU previously imposed up to 35.3% tariffs on Chinese EVs, prompting a push for renewed price agreement talks. Liz Lee and Qiaoyi Li, Reuters, April 9
Beijing ups diplomatic pressure on Africa as the U.S. pulls back. Chinese diplomats pressured lawmakers in Malawi and Gambia to quit the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, threatening to cancel summits and state visits. The alliance, critical of China’s human rights record and supportive of Taiwan, has seen withdrawals from African MPs following direct interventions. Experts say this marks a new level of Chinese influence in Africa, where Beijing’s investments and political sway are expanding as U.S. engagement wanes. Dake Kang, Associated Press, April 9
Japan
Japan’s Ishiba and NATO chief vow to deepen security ties as regional threats rise. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte pledged to enhance military cooperation in response to growing threats from China, North Korea, and Russia. The leaders agreed to advance defense industrial collaboration, focus on dual-use technologies, and strengthen cooperation in cyber defense and space. They condemned Russian use of North Korean missiles and urged Beijing to increase transparency and uphold peace in the Indo-Pacific. Mari Yamaguchi, Associated Press, April 9
Ishiba names 180 regional revitalization officers. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has appointed 180 central government officials as regional revitalization support officers under his Regional Revitalization 2.0 initiative. The officers, working in teams of three, will assist 60 rural municipalities by offering advice, introducing support systems, and sharing successful practices. They will serve one-year terms while retaining their central government roles. The Japan Times, April 10
Japan ruling bloc eyes cash handout amid tariff, inflation woes. Japan’s ruling coalition is considering a cash handout of ¥30,000 to ¥50,000 to help households cope with rising U.S. tariffs and persistent inflation, though internal debate continues over eligibility and funding. The proposal follows Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s directive to explore economic support measures. A 24% U.S. reciprocal tariff on Japanese goods and soaring food prices are fueling concern. No extra budget has been planned yet, and Japan is set to begin high-level tariff talks with the U.S. Kyodo News, April 10
South Korea
Acting president calls for redoubling efforts to ease burden of U.S. tariffs. South Korea’s Acting President Han Duck-soo urged intensified efforts to alleviate the impact of U.S. tariffs following a 90-day pause in the implementation of new duties, excluding China. Han emphasized improving tariff and regulatory conditions to aid trade-dependent industries and highlighted deregulation as a key strategy. He also addressed safety concerns following recent accidents and initiated a national inspection campaign. Lee Haye-ah, Yonhap News Agency, April 10
S. Korea, U.S. stage joint naval salvage exercise along southern coast. South Korea and the United States conducted a five-day joint naval exercise off Changwon focused on enhancing salvage and rescue operations during wartime and peacetime. The drills involved the ROKS Gwangyang and U.S. Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit, including scuba searches for simulated shipwreck victims and use of a diving bell at depths of 40 to 50 meters. British, Australian, and Coast Guard personnel observed. Chae Yun-hwan, Yonhap News Agency, April 10
Former DP leader Lee declares presidential bid. Former Democratic Party chief Lee Jae-myung officially launched his campaign for the June 3 presidential election, pledging to prioritize national unity, economic revival, and strategic diplomacy. In a video message, Lee vowed to tackle economic inequality through large-scale investments and to serve as a “tool” of the people. He emphasized strong ties with the U.S. and Japan and is expected to unveil his policy platform at a Friday press conference. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, April 10
North Korea
Corruption derails N. Korea’s tech military recruitment: Officials demand dollars and electronics. North Korean defense officials are exploiting the spring military draft by accepting bribes in exchange for assigning recruits to elite tech units, undermining efforts to modernize the army. Positions intended for skilled candidates are instead sold to families offering U.S. dollars, electronics, or other valuables. The Military Mobilization Replacement Bureau reportedly treats the draft as a major income source, further entrenching systemic corruption despite government pledges to eradicate it. Jeong Tae Joo, Daily NK, April 9
6 months into troop deployment to Russia, N. Korea rewarded with key military tech, economic aid. North Korea has received advanced military technologies and an estimated $3 billion in economic support from Russia following the deployment of over 10,000 troops to aid in the war against Ukraine. Despite losing thousands of soldiers, the regime has gained rare assets including air defense systems, satellite tech, and possibly nuclear submarine components. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, April 9
Thailand
Entertainment Complex Bill showdown set in 3 months. Thailand’s Entertainment Complex Bill has been postponed until July amid political discord and pressure from coalition parties. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized prioritizing urgent issues like earthquake relief and U.S. tariffs, but insisted the bill remains on the agenda. Discontent among coalition members, particularly the Bhumjaithai Party, and opposition from over 100 senators prompted speculation of a public referendum or parliamentary study. The Nation, April 9
PM insists Entertainment Complex Bill will not turn Thailand into a casino city, slams political manipulation. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra defended the Entertainment Complex Bill, rejecting claims that it aims to turn Thailand into a gambling hub. She clarified that casinos would comprise only 10% of each complex, which would primarily feature hotels, restaurants, and job-generating amenities. Paetongtarn condemned the criticism as politically motivated and urged officials to educate the public on the bill’s true intent. The Nation, April 9
Vietnam
U.S., Vietnam agree to start trade deal talks as tariffs paused, Hanoi says. The United States and Vietnam have agreed to begin negotiations on a trade deal after Washington paused a planned 46% tariff on Vietnamese goods. Talks between Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer focused on removing non-tariff barriers and boosting investment. Despite the pause, a 10% duty on most U.S. imports remains. Khanh Vu, Phuong Nguyen, Francesco Guarascio and David Lawder, Reuters, April 9
Party Central Committee convenes 11th plenum. The 11th plenum of the 13th Party Central Committee began in Hanoi, chaired by General Secretary To Lam. The agenda focuses on reorganizing the political system and preparing for the 14th National Party Congress and 2026–2031 legislative elections. Discussions include personnel matters, national and global developments, and reviews of Politburo decisions. The plenum will continue through April 12. Vietnam News, April 10
Myanmar
U.N. special envoy Julie Bishop makes first trip to war-torn Myanmar after big quake. U.N. envoy Julie Bishop visited Myanmar for the first time since her appointment, meeting officials in Naypyitaw as the country reels from a 7.7 magnitude earthquake that killed over 3,600 people. The quake caused widespread destruction across six regions, worsening conditions in a nation already devastated by civil war. Bishop and Myanmar authorities discussed aid coordination, while calls grow for expanded humanitarian access amid ongoing fighting and displacement. Associated Press, April 9
Myanmar junta kicks off poll countdown amid quake devastation. Less than two weeks after a deadly earthquake killed over 3,600 people, Myanmar’s junta is proceeding with plans for general elections in December and January. The Union Election Commission has set a May 9 deadline for party registration and introduced a new vice-chair to expedite preparations. Despite widespread conflict and infrastructure damage, the regime intends to use electronic voting machines and a hybrid electoral system. Maung Kavi, The Irrawaddy, April 9
Laos
Laos’ GDP to grow 3.9% this year, ADB forecasts. The Asian Development Bank projects Laos’ economy will grow by 3.9% in 2025 and 4.0% in 2026, driven by logistics, tourism, and renewable energy, despite persistent macroeconomic pressures. Inflation is expected to ease to 13.5% in 2025 following tightened monetary policy. However, high foreign-currency debt, rising electricity tariffs, and reduced spending on health and education pose challenges. Vientiane Times, April 10
Philippines
PH, US troops hone skills in 'Salaknib' military drill. Filipino and American forces are participating in “Salaknib,” a joint military exercise in Nueva Ecija aimed at enhancing ground operation readiness and interoperability. The drills include live-fire artillery training, medevac procedures, digital systems integration, and sling load operations. Phase 1 runs through April 11, followed by Phase 2 in May. Simultaneously, air force exercises under Cope Thunder are focusing on asymmetric warfare and strategic deterrence amid tensions in the South China Sea. Francisco Tuyay, The Manila Times, April 10
PH ship makes historic, maiden port visits to 3 Southeast Asian countries. The Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Gabriela Silang is making its first official port visits to Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam to enhance maritime cooperation among ASEAN members. The vessel arrived in Thailand on April 1 and will complete its tour in Vietnam before returning on April 17. Bernadette E. Tamayo, The Manila Times, April 9
Indonesia
Indonesia, UAE discuss geopolitics, geoeconomics. President Prabowo Subianto and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan discussed global political and economic developments during a meeting in Abu Dhabi, focusing on U.S. reciprocal tariffs and the Gaza conflict. Accompanied by top Indonesian officials, Prabowo emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships. The leaders also witnessed the announcement of eight bilateral cooperation agreements. ANTARA News, April 9
Indonesia, UAE announce eight cooperation pacts in Abu Dhabi. Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates signed eight bilateral agreements spanning government, business, and hybrid collaborations during a meeting between President Prabowo Subianto and President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The pacts cover areas including food security, energy transition, counterterrorism, religious affairs, defense, and renewable energy. Highlights include investments in floating solar power plants and milk production, as well as enhanced security and maritime cooperation. ANTARA News, April 9
Malaysia
Malaysia to lead ASEAN’s energy initiatives in 2025, says Fadillah. As ASEAN chair, Malaysia will spearhead regional efforts to expand renewable energy, strengthen energy security, and accelerate the ASEAN Power Grid initiative. Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof outlined the country’s goals at the Asia Pacific Business Forum, including modernizing grid infrastructure, fostering green hydrogen development, and boosting investment through public-private partnerships. Arfa Yunus, The Star, April 10
PM Anwar commits to reforming JAC Act amidst legal challenge on judicial appointments. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced a full review of Malaysia’s Judicial Appointments Commission Act, acknowledging growing concerns over its structure and executive influence while affirming its constitutional validity in an ongoing court challenge. The review will involve judiciary, civil society, and royal stakeholders, aiming to strengthen transparency and judicial independence. Malay Mail, April 9
Singapore
Most Singaporeans yet to pick a party ahead of election, poll shows. A YouGov survey found that 56% of Singaporeans remain undecided ahead of this year’s general election, though the ruling People’s Action Party leads among those who have chosen. Of the 44% who have made a decision, 63% support PAP and 15% back the Workers' Party. The election, expected by November, will be the first major test for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. Voter certainty is highest among baby boomers, with younger voters less decided. Bing Hong Lok, Jun Yuan Yong and Xinghui Kok, Reuters, April 8
Kazakhstan
New vice minister of national economy appointed. Assan Darbayev has been appointed as Kazakhstan’s new Vice Minister of National Economy, according to a government resolution. Before assuming this role, Darbayev served as Chairman of the Committee on Natural Monopolies Regulation under the same ministry. His appointment comes amid ongoing administrative changes within Kazakhstan’s economic leadership. Arailym Temirgaliyeva, Kazinform, April 9
Kazakhstan, Netherlands discuss key areas of cooperation in agriculture. Kazakhstan and the Netherlands held talks to expand cooperation in agriculture, focusing on seed production, veterinary services, pest control, and scientific exchange. Vice Minister Azat Sultanov and Dutch Secretary-General Jan-Kees Goet emphasized adapting to climate challenges and boosting agro-industrial innovation. Dutch institutions offered support for certification training and a Kazakhstan seed industry roadmap. Arailym Temirgaliyeva, Kazinform, April 9
Kazakhstan, EU move closer to signing visa facilitation agreement. The European Union has authorized the European Commission to negotiate a visa facilitation agreement with Kazakhstan aimed at easing travel for Kazakh citizens. Proposed measures include shorter processing times, reduced documentation, lower fees, and broader access to multiple-entry visas. Final implementation will require domestic ratification by both sides. The agreement is expected to boost travel and strengthen trade, cultural, and humanitarian ties. Dana Omirgazy, The Astana Times, April 9
Uzbekistan
Saidov and Rubio discuss reforms and security in Central Asia. Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington to discuss strengthening the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and the United States. Talks focused on advancing political dialogue, expanding economic and investment ties, and promoting regional cooperation and security in Central Asia. Uzbekistan Daily, April 10
Uzbekistan plans to extend visa-free regime for Arab countries and enhance tourism appeal. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has proposed extending Uzbekistan’s visa-free stay for citizens of Arab countries from 10 to 30 days to increase tourism by up to sixfold. The initiative is part of broader efforts to attract Gulf visitors and enhance air connectivity with Europe, Japan, and Korea. Plans include easing visa access for travelers from India, Pakistan, Egypt, and Iran, and launching direct pilgrim flights from Malaysia and Indonesia. Uzbekistan Daily, April 9
Tajikistan
Tajikistan, Kazakhstan discuss cooperation in the field of digitalization. Officials from Tajikistan and Kazakhstan met in Dushanbe to advance cooperation in digital government services, artificial intelligence, and fintech development. The meeting between Kazakh Ambassador Valikhan Turekhanov and Tajik innovation head Khurshed Mirzo emphasized knowledge exchange and joint projects, including Kazakhstan’s support for Tajik e-government platforms like eGOV and Smart Bridge. Asia-Plus, April 9
Northeast Asia
Beijing hits the reset button on cooperation with private tech companies. On February 17, 2025, President Xi Jinping met with executives from major Chinese tech firms to signal renewed government support for private enterprise amid mounting economic pressures and global trade restrictions. The meeting echoed during the March ‘Two Sessions’, marked a reset in the Communist Party’s relationship with the private tech sector following years of regulatory crackdowns. Xi spoke on the sector’s role in advancing national innovation, particularly in strategic technologies such as AI, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing. While symbolic of a thaw in relations, the shift remains conditional: private firms must align with state goals and avoid amassing unchecked influence. Despite promises of fairer treatment under a draft private economy promotion law, implementation remains uncertain. Private firms continue to face market constraints, consumer weakness, and political oversight. Xi’s overtures may temporarily ease tensions, but long-term autonomy and growth for the tech sector remain constrained by the Party’s imperative to control economic and technological development. Yvette To, East Asia Forum, April 9
Waypoints and Course Adjustments Towards Naval Shipbuilding Cooperation with South Korea. Amid rising concerns over China’s naval expansion, the United States is reassessing its defense industrial strategy and exploring deeper cooperation with South Korea’s advanced shipbuilding sector. South Korea’s global leadership in commercial shipbuilding, driven by firms like Hyundai Heavy Industries and Hanwha Ocean, offers the U.S. an opportunity to address domestic production shortfalls in naval vessels. With its expertise in shipyard automation, modular design, and skilled workforce, South Korea presents a cost-effective partner to bolster U.S. naval readiness. However, obstacles remain, including strict U.S. regulations protecting domestic shipbuilders under the Jones Act and Buy American mandates, as well as limited integration of allied capabilities into U.S. acquisition processes. To unlock the potential of bilateral cooperation, the U.S. must align industrial policies with strategic needs, revise protectionist regulations, and foster joint ventures that enhance both nations’ maritime defense capacities. A more flexible and collaborative approach would not only address current capacity gaps but also reinforce alliance resilience in the Indo-Pacific. J. James Kim, Stimson Center, April 9
China’s Anti-Corruption Act. China's latest anti-corruption campaign, launched in March and running through July, reflects a renewed political performance rather than substantive reform. Promoted under the “spirit of the Central Eight Regulations,” the effort highlights “exemplary cases” such as minor officials punished for banquet excesses and gift-taking, used to signal compliance both upward to Beijing and downward to local cadres. This media-driven initiative, described as “meta-propaganda,” prioritizes performative enforcement over structural change. Discipline inspection offices publicize vague actions through symbolic imagery and ambiguous statements, reinforcing the Party's ideological supremacy while evading systemic accountability. Despite repeated purges, the root issue — the Chinese Communist Party’s position above the law — remains untouched, allowing entrenched impunity. The campaign’s theatrical nature demonstrates governance through spectacle rather than institutional oversight, where discipline is wielded as a political tool, not a legal standard. Real anti-corruption reform remains elusive, as challenging the Party’s unchecked authority is politically untenable. Dalia Parete and David Bandurski, China Media Project, April 10
Xi Jinping’s ‘Great Rejuvenation of the Pan-Chinese Nation’: A Historical Perspective. Xi Jinping’s vision of a “pan-Chinese nation” seeks to unite ethnic Chinese globally through civilizational rhetoric, invoking shared ancestry and cultural ties. This narrative draws on historical patterns of non-territorial sovereignty, where successive Chinese governments claimed allegiance from overseas Chinese communities despite their foreign citizenship. While the PRC appeals to blood and heritage to cultivate loyalty, it offers little legal protection, as illustrated by selective interventions in crises involving ethnic Chinese abroad. Under the CCP’s “united front work,” overseas Chinese are courted as symbolic extensions of national strength, yet remain outside formal state obligations. The 1980 nationality law reinforces this, avoiding dual nationality and excluding many foreign-born ethnic Chinese from citizenship. Xi’s discourse resonates unevenly, often clashing with the civic nationalism of host countries and the diverse political identities of Chinese communities worldwide. Despite the PRC’s strategic efforts, many ethnic Chinese outside China maintain cultural pride while rejecting political alignment with Beijing, exposing the contradiction between the Party’s ideological goals and the realities of global Chinese identities. Mara Yue Du, Fulcrum, April 10
Southeast Asia
The Philippines confronts Duterte’s authoritarian legacy at The Hague. Rodrigo Duterte’s trial at the International Criminal Court marks a historic precedent as the first time an Asian leader is prosecuted for state-led mass violence tied to a drug war. His case exemplifies how authoritarian regimes weaponize narcotics policy to justify extrajudicial killings and expand executive power. By framing drugs as existential threats, Duterte enabled widespread human rights abuses targeting the poor while shielding political and criminal elites. The ICC’s intervention challenges impunity but demonstrates the limitations of international justice without parallel domestic reforms. Sustainable accountability requires insulating courts from political interference, prosecuting mid- and low-level perpetrators, and professionalizing the security sector through rights-based training and oversight. Civil society efforts have been hindered by institutional weakness, lack of enforcement, and resistance from law enforcement. President Marcos Jr’s ambivalent support for the ICC reflects political expediency rather than a genuine break from past abuses. Long-term justice hinges on rebuilding democratic safeguards, embedding human rights into governance, and ensuring security forces uphold public service and the rule of law. Salvador Santino F Regilme Jr, East Asia Forum, April 10
‘Dark Indonesia’ and the Anxiety of the Indonesian Middle Class. The rise of the “Dark Indonesia” discourse, marked by viral social media posts and bleak memes, reveals deepening anxiety within Indonesia’s middle class over worsening governance, corruption, and democratic backsliding. This sentiment reflects disillusionment with perceived elite impunity, particularly after the Constitutional Court’s ruling that enabled President Jokowi’s son to run for vice president. While not a formal political movement, the “Dark Indonesia” narrative channels widespread fears about democratic erosion, state repression, and an uncertain economic future. The urban middle class, once optimistic about Indonesia’s democratic trajectory, increasingly sees the state as opaque and unresponsive. Rather than rejecting the state outright, they express their frustration through satire and digital critique. Despite this, the middle class remains politically fragmented, with their grievances largely manifesting as cultural commentary rather than coordinated activism. The discourse shows a growing awareness of systemic problems, but also the limits of middle-class political agency in confronting entrenched power. urhanuddin Muhtadi, Fulcrum, April 10
South Asia
‘Not Just Drowning’: Gujjar Community Demands Justice Over Suspicious Deaths in Kashmir. The Gujjar community in Indian-administered Kashmir is demanding a formal investigation into the deaths of three men from their community, whose bodies were found in a canal under suspicious circumstances. While authorities labeled the incident as an accidental drowning, the victims’ families and local residents allege foul play and claim the men were last seen in police custody. The case has sparked public outcry and renewed concerns over the treatment of tribal and marginalized groups in the region. Activists argue the incident reflects a broader pattern of institutional neglect and abuse targeting Kashmir’s tribal populations. Calls for an independent probe have intensified, with human rights organizations urging transparency and accountability. Despite mounting pressure, local officials have yet to open a judicial inquiry, deepening mistrust in state institutions. The community continues to seek justice while highlighting the need for systemic reforms to protect the rights and safety of tribal minorities. Sajad Hameed and Rehan Qayoom, The Diplomat, April 8