Asia Daily: April 17, 2025
China
China’s Xi in Malaysia calls on Asian nations to resist confrontation and protectionism. Chinese President Xi Jinping urged Asian nations to unite against geopolitical confrontation, unilateralism, and protectionism during a state visit to Malaysia, part of his broader Southeast Asia tour. After exchanging 31 cooperation agreements with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Xi called for greater regional openness and collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and artificial intelligence. He emphasized resisting “excessive tariffs” and supporting multilateralism. Malaysia, facing a 24% U.S. tariff before a temporary pause, continues to rely on China, its top trading partner since 2009. Danial Azhar and Ashley Tang, Ethan Wang, Reuters, April 16
Chinese officials embark on tour to rally export firms facing Trump tariff shocks. Senior officials across China’s export hubs are visiting manufacturers and deploying cross-agency task forces to support businesses hit by U.S. tariffs of up to 145%. Leaders in cities like Yancheng, Wenzhou, Dalian, and Tianjin pledged tailored policies, encouraged market diversification, and promoted confidence in China’s economy. The “zhuan ban” task forces—active in key provinces and municipalities—are coordinating agencies to help reroute exports, mitigate risks, and stabilize foreign investment. William Zheng, South China Morning Post, April 16
China’s response will continue ‘to the end,’ FM says after White House claims China faces up to 245% tariffs. China’s Foreign Ministry condemned the White House claim that Chinese goods now face up to 245% in U.S. tariffs, dismissing it as an economically meaningless “numbers game.” The ministry stated that the U.S. is weaponizing tariffs for coercion and that China neither seeks nor fears a trade war. It warned that if Washington continues infringing on China’s interests, Beijing’s countermeasures “will continue to the end.” Global Times, April 17
Japan
Japan PM aims to meet Trump in US over tariffs when appropriate. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said he intends to visit the United States to meet President Donald Trump “at the most appropriate time” to advance stalled tariff negotiations. The plan follows talks between Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa and top U.S. officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, which laid groundwork for a new round of discussions. Kyodo News, April 17
Ishiba to visit Vietnam and the Philippines from April 27. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba will travel to Vietnam and the Philippines from April 27 for four days to bolster security ties amid rising Chinese influence in Southeast Asia and declining trust in the United States due to U.S. tariffs. In Vietnam, Ishiba will meet Communist Party General Secretary To Lam to announce plans to include the country in Japan’s official security assistance program. In the Philippines, Ishiba will seek agreements to launch talks on a military intelligence-sharing pact and mutual supply of ammunition and fuel. The Japan Times, April 17
South Korea
Gov’t revises med school quota to previous level to resolve 14-month standoff. The South Korean government announced it will revert the 2026 medical school admission quota to the pre-2025 level of 3,058 students in an effort to end a 14-month standoff with trainee doctors and medical students. The 2025 increase of 2,000 seats sparked mass resignations and boycotts, with only 25.9% of students attending classes despite widespread reenrollment. Universities must submit revised admission plans by the end of April. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, April 17
66% say acting President Han’s potential bid in June 3 elections ‘undesirable’: poll. Sixty-six percent of South Koreans believe it would be undesirable for acting President Han Duck-soo to run in the June 3 presidential election, compared to 24% who support the idea, according to a National Barometer Survey. Opposition was strongest among Democratic Party supporters, with 91% against his candidacy. The poll, conducted April 14–16 among 1,001 adults, followed Han’s decision not to register for the People Power Party’s primary. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, April 17
Speaker meets U.S. lawmakers to reaffirm alliance, boost ties. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik met with members of the U.S. Congressional Study Group on Korea to reaffirm bipartisan support for the South Korea–U.S. alliance and discuss expanding inter-parliamentary cooperation. Woo emphasized the alliance’s evolution beyond security and economics to include global affairs and technology, while urging the establishment of a corresponding legislative body in Congress. Hwang Joo-young, The Korea Herald, April 17
North Korea
North Korea criticises U.S. for deploying B-1B strategic bomber in South Korea. North Korea condemned the recent deployment of a U.S. B-1B strategic bomber in joint military drills with South Korea, calling it an “open threat” to its national security and denouncing the move as “reckless bluffing.” The aircraft participated in exercises held Tuesday alongside fighter jets. South Korea’s defence ministry countered that the drills were defensive. Hyunsu Yim, Reuters, April 16
N. Korea reforms security oversight after agent’s abuses in Russia exposed. North Korea has introduced stricter oversight and selection standards for overseas security officers following revelations that agent Choi Sung Chol mistreated laborers in Russia. The Ministry of State Security now mandates weekly ideological and operational reviews, written reports, and peer monitoring. Officers from regions bordering China and those with prior foreign experience are barred from deployment. Lee Ho Jin, Daily NK, April 17
Thailand
Overhaul economic team, shift key policies to save Pheu Thai. Facing declining public support and stalled flagship policies, Thailand’s Pheu Thai Party is preparing a major reshuffle of its economic leadership and strategy. Nearly two years into its term, the party’s initiatives—such as the digital wallet, entertainment complex, and Land Bridge projects—have encountered political resistance and implementation delays. A Cabinet reshuffle is likely, with new technocratic appointments under consideration to regain momentum ahead of the 2027 general election. The Nation, April 17
Myanmar
Malaysia PM set to meet Myanmar junta chief amid opposition to talks. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is set to meet Myanmar’s junta leader Min Aung Hlaing in Bangkok to push for an extension of the post-earthquake ceasefire, drawing criticism from anti-junta groups who warn the meeting risks legitimizing the military regime. As ASEAN chair, Anwar is framing the talks as a humanitarian initiative, but detractors argue such engagement contradicts the bloc’s stance. Devjyot Ghoshal and Panu Wongcha-Um, Reuters, April 17
Myanmar junta says to free nearly 5,000 prisoners in amnesty. Myanmar’s military government announced it will release 4,893 prisoners in a New Year amnesty, citing compassion and the desire for national reconciliation. The move, timed with the Thingyan water festival, comes amid a civil conflict following the 2021 coup. Prominent political detainees like Aung San Suu Kyi remain jailed. The announcement coincides with junta chief Min Aung Hlaing’s expected trip to Bangkok for talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on humanitarian aid following the recent earthquake. Myanmar Now, April 17
Chin National Army, allies fight for control of Kalay-Gangaw road. The Chin National Army and allied resistance forces have seized key positions along the Kalay-Gangaw road, a strategic route linking Chin State and Sagaing Region to Magway’s Gangaw Township. The coalition includes multiple Chinland Defence Force units, the Yaw Region Liberation Alliance, Hantharwady People’s Defence Team, the All Burma Students’ Democratic Front, and other Kalay-based groups. Myanmar Now, April 17
Cambodia
Cambodia seeks China help as Xi visits amid U.S. tariff standoff. Cambodia is seeking increased financial support from China, particularly for infrastructure, as President Xi Jinping visits Phnom Penh to conclude a Southeast Asia tour. Officials hope Beijing will commit funding for the $1.7 billion Funan Techo Canal project, which aims to enhance shipping independence but faces environmental and regional concerns. While China has not pledged new loans, Xi emphasized resistance to “hegemonism” and “protectionism.” Francesco Guarascio and Liz Lee, Reuters, April 17
Xi Jinping touches down in Cambodia amid U.S. tensions. Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Phnom Penh on April 17 for a two-day state visit to Cambodia, the final leg of his Southeast Asia tour amid heightened U.S. trade tensions. Xi will meet King Norodom Sihamoni, Queen Mother Monineath, Senate President Hun Sen, and Prime Minister Hun Manet to discuss regional cooperation and bilateral ties. China remains Cambodia’s top investor, driving key infrastructure projects under the Belt and Road Initiative. Hong Raksmey, The Phnom Penh Post, April 17
Philippines
China offers PH 'win-win' path vs U.S. protectionism. Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian warned that escalating U.S. trade tariffs could spark a “ripple crisis” in the Philippine economy, which remains vulnerable to global supply chain shocks. Speaking at a closed-door briefing in Makati, Huang criticized Washington’s protectionism and offered deeper regional integration with China as a “win-win” alternative. Emphasizing multilateralism, he urged Manila to adopt an independent foreign policy and reject economic nationalism.Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, April 17
Pres. Marcos' approval, trust ratings fall. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s approval and trust ratings declined sharply in March, dropping 17 points to 25% in approval and to the same level in trust, according to a Pulse Asia survey. Disapproval and distrust both rose to 54%. Senate President Chiz Escudero also saw notable declines. In contrast, Vice President Sara Duterte’s approval rating rose to 59% and trust to 61% . House Speaker Martin Romualdez remained low, with 14% approval and 57% distrust. Charie Abarca, Philippine Daily Inquirer, April 16
Indonesia
Top U.S., Indonesian diplomats discuss tariffs, defense in meeting. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono to discuss reciprocal tariffs and deepen defense cooperation. The talks included efforts to uphold freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea in line with international law. Rubio welcomed Indonesia’s economic reforms aimed at creating a fairer trade balance and reaffirmed bilateral commitment to regional security. Ismail Shakil, Reuters, April 16
Indonesia, EU discuss Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri met with European Parliament trade officials to push for progress on the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, urging practical solutions and consideration of development gaps. She stressed CEPA’s role in boosting investor confidence amid global trade tensions. Indonesia posted a $4.5 billion trade surplus with the EU in 2024. Maria Kenzu, ANTARA News, April 17
Malaysia
China and Malaysia say important to maintain peace and stability in South China Sea. China and Malaysia reaffirmed the need to preserve peace and stability in the South China Sea during President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Kuala Lumpur. The two countries expressed support for concluding a long-delayed ASEAN-China code of conduct by 2026 and emphasized multilateralism over unilateral trade restrictions. Malaysia reiterated its commitment to the one-China policy, and both sides called forthe enforcement of the Gaza ceasefire. Ashley Tang, Reuters, April 17
Singapore
Singapore PM says US-China trade war pain will be felt everywhere. Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong warned that the ongoing U.S.-China trade war would disrupt global trade and investment, stating that the impact “will be felt not just by them but by countries everywhere.” Speaking ahead of the May 3 general election, Wong said President Trump’s 10% baseline tariff, though additional tariffs are delayed, creates severe uncertainty and accelerates economic decoupling. Bing Hong Lok and Xinghui Kok, Reuters, April 16
Taiwan
Taiwanese leader William Lai’s popularity drops amid drive to unseat opposition lawmakers. President William Lai Ching-te’s approval rating has fallen to 45.9%, with disapproval reaching a record 45.7%, amid a contentious recall campaign targeting 35 opposition lawmakers. The campaign, supported by Lai’s Democratic Progressive Party, seeks to reclaim legislative control from a narrow Kuomintang-led alliance. Public dissatisfaction is also linked to U.S. President Donald Trump’s new 32% tariff on Taiwanese imports, with 86% of voters believing it will significantly affect the economy. Amber Wang, South China Morning Post, April 16
Kazakhstan
President Tokayev receives letters of credence from foreign ambassadors. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev accepted credentials from new ambassadors representing Belarus, Thailand, Moldova, Myanmar, Kenya, Albania, and Italy. During the ceremony, he reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to a peace-oriented, multi-vector foreign policy and stressed the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and adherence to the UN Charter in international relations. Arailym Temirgaliyeva, Kazinform, April 17
Kazakhstan to spend KZT120bln on defense sector development. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced a KZT120 billion ($229 million) allocation to strengthen Kazakhstan’s defense sector, emphasizing the armed forces as essential to national sovereignty. He highlighted the role of morale, discipline, and professionalism in building a strong military and called for patriotism and responsibility as core societal values. Nariman Mergalym, Kazinform, April 16
Uzbekistan
U.S. cancels $2.5 million civic engagement grant for Uzbekistan. The U.S. State Department has canceled a $2.5 million grant intended to support civic engagement in Uzbekistan, part of a broader foreign aid review led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Department of Government Efficiency. Despite the cut, bilateral ties remain strong, with Uzbekistan planning high-level talks, including the Enhanced Strategic Partnership Dialogue. Sadokat Jalolova, The Times of Central Asia, April 16
Preparations for the Central Asia–Gulf Cooperation Council Summit discussed. Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov met with GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi to review organizational plans for the upcoming Central Asia–Gulf Cooperation Council Summit in Samarkand. Talks focused on the summit’s agenda and final documents, aiming to reflect the strategic interests of all participating countries. Both parties highlighted the summit’s historic significance and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing cooperation. Uzbekistan Daily, April 16
Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan to introduce simplified procedures for obtaining visas. Turkmenistan’s legislature has approved a measure to implement electronic visas, signaling efforts to ease travel restrictions and integrate into regional trade networks. The e-visa system, announced by the Turkmenistan Today agency, will allow foreigners to enter, stay, or transit through the country, though no start date or fee details have been disclosed. The move follows recent agreements on gas exports and transit routes aimed at reducing isolation and boosting participation in the Middle Corridor. Eurasianet, April 16
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyz leader Japarov gets parliament to reset election date. President Sadyr Japarov has secured parliamentary approval to postpone Kyrgyzstan’s next presidential election from October 18, 2026, to January 24, 2027, allowing him to serve his full six-year term. The move is seen as a sign he may seek re-election, which would make him the first president in two decades to win a second term. Japarov, who rose to power after protests in 2020, has tightened control through populist reforms and legislation resembling Russian-style governance. Aigerim Turgunbaeva, Reuters, April 16
Northeast Asia
Japan's pacifist illusion in a Trumpian world. Japan faces a critical security reckoning as U.S. President Donald Trump challenges longstanding alliances, most recently by siding with Russia and North Korea against a UN motion on Ukraine and publicly criticizing the U.S.–Japan Security Treaty. Despite outward solidarity with the G7 and strong domestic support for Ukraine, Japan’s political leadership remains constrained by deeply ingrained pacifist ideals and societal norms that stigmatize its Self-Defense Forces. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s noncommittal stance and reluctance to address defence preparedness reflect a broader national hesitation to revise Article 9 or normalize military discourse. Institutions still reject military engagement, including restrictions on defence research in universities and public discomfort with military symbols. With the potential erosion of U.S. military commitments, Japan risks severe strategic vulnerability, particularly amid growing tensions over Taiwan and continued regional assertiveness from Russia and China. While public opinion may be shifting toward accepting the need for greater deterrence, a decisive national dialogue remains absent. Without urgent reassessment, Japan could once again miss the opportunity to recalibrate its defence posture in an increasingly unstable world. Yukari Easton, East Asia Forum, April 16
US-China trade war stuck in a Prisoner’s Dilemma. The US-China trade conflict reflects the dynamics of a classic Prisoner’s Dilemma, where both sides continually choose defection—raising tariffs and restricting trade—over cooperation due to mistrust, political calculations, and national pride. Mutual cooperation would yield economic gains, but the fear of appearing weak discourages compromise. For China, yielding to US pressure risks damaging its domestic legitimacy and international standing, while the US administration views toughness on China as an electoral asset. Compounding the issue is President Trump’s unpredictability and China’s perception of the trade war as a finite engagement, reducing incentives for long-term cooperation. Past attempts at early concessions, like Vietnam’s tariff offer, were met with US rejection, reinforcing China's caution. The ongoing defection harms global supply chains, prompting companies to diversify operations and bolster intra-Asian trade. Politically, the dispute has evolved into a zero-sum battle of narratives rather than pure economics. Resolving this standoff requires either a shift in costs—where continued conflict becomes untenable—or a diplomatic narrative that permits both leaders to de-escalate without losing face. Until then, mutual defection remains the stable, yet damaging, outcome. Kok How Lee, Asia Times, April 17
Trade war jeopardizes China’s fusion energy drive. The escalating US-China trade war now threatens to disrupt vital cooperation in fusion energy, an area historically marked by collaboration through initiatives like the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). Despite rising tariffs and tighter US export controls targeting advanced technologies, China continues to push aggressively in fusion development, leveraging foreign expertise, ITER contributions, and domestic investment. With successful milestones like the EAST reactor’s sustained plasma and the integration of over 140 French companies into its nuclear projects, China has built a robust ecosystem for fusion advancement. However, increased decoupling—such as restricting Chinese access to U.S. education and technology—could hinder China’s progress and slow global scientific advancement. Emulating China's effective practices, rather than isolating it, may accelerate global breakthroughs. While the U.S. and China remain major investors in fusion, $5.63 billion and $2.49 billion. The fusion race is becoming a geopolitical contest, but cooperation remains essential to achieving the long-term goal of clean, sustainable energy. Jeff Pao, Asia Times, April 17
Fears of a China Initiative Revival Stir Anxiety Among Chinese American Academics. Chinese American academics are increasingly alarmed by what they perceive as a quiet resurgence of the controversial “China Initiative,” a federal program previously criticized for disproportionately targeting Chinese and Asian American scientists. Recent events, including FBI raids on Indiana University professor Xiaofeng Wang and the dismissal of Chinese professor Kevin Wang under Florida’s SB 846 law, have increased concerns. Although neither Xiaofeng Wang nor his wife has been charged, their abrupt termination and removal from university records have fueled suspicions of racial profiling. In Florida, SB 846—barring the hiring of nationals from certain countries—has been temporarily blocked by a federal judge but remains under appeal. Civil rights advocates warn these actions threaten academic freedom, U.S. research competitiveness, and the recruitment of international talent. Advocacy groups such as the Asian American Scholar Forum and APA Justice are pushing back, citing data from the original China Initiative showing that no prosecuted scientists were charged with espionage. Although Congress has not formally reinstated the program, ongoing investigations and legislative trends suggest a reemergence of its principles under different names, reigniting fears of systemic discrimination and undermining trust in American academic institutions. Juan Zhang, US–China Perception Monitor, April 16
The Three Layers of the China-U.S. Rivalry: Trade, Global Leadership, and Governance Systems. China–U.S. tensions extend beyond trade, forming a three-layered contest encompassing economic friction, global leadership, and systemic governance rivalry. While tariffs dominate headlines, the deeper conflict lies in the United States’ strategic effort to maintain hegemony and counter China's ascent. Drawing lessons from Japan’s historical encounters with U.S. pressure, China is urged to respond with strategic pragmatism—strengthening ties with U.S. allies, utilizing international rules, and containing the rivalry within economic bounds. At the leadership level, China faces choices between strategic restraint, cooperative co-governance, or radical competition, with historical precedent favoring stability and shared responsibility. The most fundamental layer concerns governance capacity; China's hierarchical model must adapt by improving information flow, feedback, and policy responsiveness to compete with the U.S.'s flexible and data-driven decision-making. Overconfidence, illustrated by Japan’s pre-WWII missteps, is identified as a major risk. Preserving the peace dividend, avoiding decoupling, and focusing on domestic reform are deemed critical to securing China’s long-term growth and social stability. The rivalry is not a temporary standoff but a defining test of national resilience and global influence. Juan Zhang, US–China Perception Monitor, April 16
Southeast Asia
Understanding Indonesia as an offshore balancer. Indonesia exhibits the defining characteristics of an offshore balancer, historically maintaining limited engagement in continental power politics while prioritizing domestic stability and modest military investment. With its vast archipelagic geography and absence of immediate territorial threats, Indonesia traditionally refrained from assertive regional actions unless faced with a hegemonic challenge. This pattern changed in the late 1970s in response to Vietnam’s assertiveness, and a similar transformation is now occurring due to China’s growing influence. Beijing’s rise as a potential regional hegemon has prompted Jakarta to increase defence spending and pursue closer alignment with the United States and its allies. Under President Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia plans to raise military expenditure to 1.5% of GDP by 2029, increase northern island defences, and deepen cooperation with U.S. forces, exemplified by the establishment of a maritime training centre and the first B-52 bomber visit. These actions reflect Indonesia’s pivot from Cold War-era neutrality to active counterbalancing. Whether Jakarta escalates its role in regional security will depend on China’s trajectory; further aggression may compel Indonesia to embrace power politics and strengthen partnerships across Southeast Asia. Dylan Motin, East Asia Forum, April 17'
Manufacturing Cruelty: Macaques Exploited by Content Farms for Profit in Vietnam. In Vietnam, content farms like Future Media are profiting from exploitative videos featuring macaques performing human-like behaviors under duress, often dressed in baby clothes and fed junk food. These videos, crafted for algorithmic appeal and monetized through US-registered YouTube channels, exploit jurisdictional loopholes to evade Vietnam’s animal cruelty laws. Channels such as “KUDO ANIMAL KIKI” attract millions of views and generate significant monthly revenue. While netizen pressure and NGO efforts have led to superficial removals, exploitative content persists under rebranded or concealed channels. YouTube’s automated moderation fails to detect subtle abuse, allowing content that normalizes exotic pet ownership and misleads viewers about animal care. Experts advocate for manual oversight involving animal welfare professionals, alongside advertiser boycotts to weaken financial incentives. Although monitoring every upload is unfeasible, targeting major channels for demonetization could disrupt the industry. Ultimately, more nuanced, expert-led moderation and community activism are essential to curbing the scale of digital animal exploitation while preserving ethical content creation. Brandon Tan Jun Wen, Fulcrum, April 16
Philippine AI Governance: Time to Shift Gears. Despite outlining a vision for artificial intelligence development through its National AI Strategy Roadmap, the Philippine government has made little legislative or regulatory progress toward responsible AI governance. With six AI-focused bills pending in Congress and unlikely to pass before the May 2025 midterm elections, legal safeguards such as algorithmic rights and protections against AI-driven discrimination remain theoretical. Agencies like the Department of Information and Communications Technology have introduced guidelines, particularly targeting disinformation and deepfakes, but these lack the legal force needed for coherent enforcement. The absence of enabling legislation risks creating overlapping mandates and regulatory confusion. Meanwhile, threats to national security and labor markets, such as foreign-developed AI promoting geopolitical narratives and automation displacing up to 300,000 BPO jobs, remain largely unaddressed. Without swift action, the Philippines could lose its competitive edge in AI development and deter foreign investment. A decisive change is needed—through legislation, inter-agency coordination, and investments in R&D and talent development—to align national AI governance with emerging global standards and to ensure AI advances augment, rather than undermine, economic and social progress. Jose Miguelito Enriquez, Fulcrum, April 16