Asia Daily: April 28, 2025
China
China ‘fully confident’ of hitting 5% growth target despite trade war. China remains confident of reaching its 5% GDP growth target in 2025 despite escalating tariffs with the United States, according to Zhao Chenxin, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission. The statement follows weeks of intensified trade tensions, although China’s economy grew 5.4% in the first quarter. Beijing’s leadership pledged continued economic support during a recent Politburo meeting. Ji Siqi and Sylvia Ma, South China Morning Post, April 28
China, Russia hold counter-terrorism and security consultation at vice-foreign ministerial level. China’s Assistant Foreign Minister Hong Lei and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Vershinin Sergey Vasilievich convened in Moscow for a bilateral counter-terrorism and security consultation on April 26. Both sides emphasized that under their leaders' strategic guidance, cooperation in counter-terrorism has deepened, enhancing national and regional security. Global Times, April 28
China extends anti-corruption rules to village chiefs and other grass-roots officials. China has expanded anti-corruption supervision to include township cadres, village officials, and those involved in rural poverty alleviation efforts under revised regulations that took effect on March 28. The rules require major financial and project decisions to be reported to higher authorities and mandate public disclosure of violations. Yuanyue Dang, South China Morning Post, April 27
Japan
Japan PM Ishiba kicks off trip to Vietnam, Philippines to boost ties. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba began a four-day trip to Vietnam and the Philippines to strengthen security and economic partnerships amid rising tensions in the East and South China seas. Ishiba met Vietnamese leaders to discuss defense cooperation, including providing equipment under Japan’s new security assistance program. In Manila, he is expected to negotiate an intelligence-sharing pact and joint coast guard drills. Kyodo News, April 27
BOJ to keep rates steady, warn of U.S. tariff risks. The Bank of Japan is expected to maintain its short-term interest rate at 0.5% and highlight risks from escalating U.S. tariffs during its two-day meeting ending Thursday. Governor Kazuo Ueda emphasized cautious policy normalization amid global growth concerns, warning that trade tensions could delay future rate hikes. Despite domestic inflation pressures, the BOJ may postpone achieving its 2% inflation target until beyond fiscal 2025. Leika Kihara, Reuters, April 28
South Korea
PPP presidential hopefuls make final campaign push in primary face-off. People Power Party presidential contenders made final appeals as the party held its second-round primary vote to select a candidate for the June 3 election following former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s ouster. Kim Moon-soo pledged to seek trade talks with U.S. President Donald Trump, while Hong Joon-pyo focused on economic issues. Acting President Han Duck-soo is also weighing a presidential run. Kim Eun-jung, Yonhap News Agency, April 28
DP presidential candidate Lee keeps wide lead in opinion polls. Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung maintained a strong lead ahead of the June 3 presidential election, garnering 48.5% support according to a Realmeter survey of 1,505 adults. Although slightly down from the previous week, Lee remains the clear front-runner despite uncertainties over an election law violation case. His nearest rivals, Kim Moon-soo and Hong Joon-pyo of the People Power Party, trailed with 13.4% and 10.2%, respectively. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, April 28
Conservative critical of Yoon Suk Yeol to join liberal presidential campaign. Democratic Party presidential nominee Lee Jae-myung appointed former environment minister Yoon Yeo-joon, a conservative critic of ousted ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol, to head his election steering committee. The move aims to broaden Lee’s appeal beyond the liberal base by emphasizing political unity and merit over affiliation. Kim Arin, The Korea Herald, April 28
North Korea
N. Korea confirms troop deployment to Russia. North Korea officially confirmed it deployed troops to Russia to support Moscow’s war against Ukraine, invoking a mutual defense treaty signed by Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin. The Korean Central News Agency reported that North Korean forces aided in reclaiming the Kursk region, with Kim praising the operation as a “sacred mission.” South Korea’s unification ministry condemned the move as a violation of U.N. resolutions and international norms, warning of coordinated responses with the international community. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, April 28
N. Korea tightens control over students abroad with new security measures. North Korea is overhauling its management policies for students overseas, introducing stricter surveillance and categorization into defectors, attempted defectors, and ordinary students. The Ministry of State Security plans monthly mutual evaluations among students, regular interviews with families of defectors, and intensified monitoring through embassies. The new measures aim to prevent defections and emphasize that students are “state assets” subject to tracking and potential forced repatriation. Jeong Tae Joo, Daily NK, April 28
N. Korea’s delayed elections spark speculation as party anniversary takes priority. North Korea’s elections for the Supreme People’s Assembly, scheduled for 2024, have been delayed without explanation, prompting speculation among citizens. Some believe the postponement is tied to preparations for the ruling party’s 80th anniversary, while others suspect a broad reshuffling of deputies is underway. Reports indicate that candidate evaluations are ongoing and could culminate in a new assembly emphasizing generational change. Mun Dong Hui, Daily NK, April 28
Thailand
PPRP won't rejoin govt, says Prawit. Palang Pracharath Party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon confirmed the party will not rejoin Thailand’s government coalition and denied reports of MPs defecting to the Kla Dharma Party. Prawit stressed all MPs attended the PPRP’s annual meeting and reaffirmed party unity. The meeting also appointed Thirachai Phuvanatnaranubala and Suradet Yasawat as deputy leaders. PPRP plans to target 60 seats in the next election and maintain opposition to the ruling party’s legalised casino policy. Bangkok Post, April 28
PP calls on govt to drop charges against U.S. academic. Thailand’s opposition People’s Party urged the government to drop lese-majeste and computer crime charges against American academic Paul Chambers to help advance tariff negotiations with the United States. MP Sirikanya Tansakun criticized the government’s handling of the issue and called for transparency regarding former PM Thaksin Shinawatra’s claims linking the charges to delayed talks. Bangkok Post, April 28
Vietnam
Vietnam, Japan to deepen political, security, economic ties. Vietnamese Party chief To Lam and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba agreed to strengthen their countries’ Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during talks in Hanoi. Lam proposed expanding cooperation in political trust, defense, science and technology, digital transformation, and high-tech agriculture, while inviting Japan to participate in major infrastructure projects. Both leaders emphasized regional and global coordination through ASEAN and the United Nations. Vietnam News, April 28
Myanmar
Clashes in Myanmar’s southernmost region disrupt traffic on crucial route. Fighting between junta forces and resistance groups in Tanintharyi Region has severely restricted traffic along the vital Myeik-Dawei road. Battles near Win Wa village’s police station, involving the Karen National Liberation Army and People’s Defence Force, blocked freight and passenger transport, with some residents resorting to water routes. A naval vessel stationed offshore is reportedly providing artillery support to government troops. Saw Reh, Myanmar Now, April 28
Battles resume in Kachin State. Fighting reignited in Myanmar’s Kachin State as Kachin Independence Army forces launched assaults on junta positions near the China-Myanmar border, targeting Infantry Battalion 47 and Military Operations Command 21 headquarters in Bhamo Township. The battles followed a lull after months of heavy fighting, during which KIA-led forces seized battalion bases, an airport, and parts of urban Bhamo. Min Maung, Myanmar Now, April 28
Laos
Lao, Vietnamese leaders’ meeting boosts ties to new level. Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and Vietnamese President Luong Cuong reaffirmed their countries’ special relationship during a two-day state visit to Laos from April 24 to 25. Both leaders agreed to enhance economic cooperation to match the strength of their political ties and committed to implementing agreements made by their respective Parties and governments. President Luong Cuong also met former Lao leaders and attended a friendship gathering. Bounfaeng Phaymanivong, Vientiane Times, April 28
Cambodia
Vietnam People’s Navy Vessel docks at Ream Naval Base to bolster ties. The Vietnam People’s Navy ship 261 arrived at Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base in Preah Sihanouk province for a three-day visit aimed at strengthening naval cooperation and solidarity between the two countries. Rear Admiral Nguon Oddom and other Cambodian naval officers welcomed the delegation. This marks the second foreign naval visit to the base since its Phase 1 redevelopment inauguration on April 5. Khmer Times, April 28
Philippines
China seizes disputed reef. The Chinese coast guard seized control of Sandy Cay, a disputed reef near the Philippines’ Thitu Island, amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea. Chinese media reported coast guard personnel landed on the reef in mid-April to assert sovereignty, conducted inspections, and removed debris. Manila accused China of illegal activities but said no permanent occupation structures were built. The Manila Times, April 28
3 Chinese ships shadow Balikatan exercises. Three Chinese vessels, including a Jiangkai II-class frigate, a second ship with bow number 500, and a Dongdiao II-class surveillance ship, were observed monitoring Division Tactics drills conducted by Philippine and U.S. forces, according to Philippine Navy spokesman Capt. John Percie Acts. The Chinese ships kept their distance while being tracked by the BPS Ramon Alcaraz. Meanwhile, U.S. forces deployed the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System to bolster deterrence. Francisco Tuyay, The Manila Times, April 28
Indonesia
Indonesia explores manpower cooperation with UAE, China. Indonesian Minister of Manpower Yassierli discussed deploying interns and preparing workers for the United Arab Emirates and China during bilateral meetings at the BRICS Labour Employment Ministers’ Meeting in Brazil. Yassierli proposed training Indonesian workers at Work Training Centers to match UAE industry needs, a plan welcomed by UAE Minister Abdulrahman Al Awar. ANTARA News, April 28
Malaysia
Malaysia sees surge in Chinese student applications. Applications from Chinese students to Malaysian universities grew by 25% in 2024, driven by shifting global student mobility trends, according to Education Malaysia Global Services. Chinese applicants reached 33,216 last year, topping all international groups. Malaysia’s multilingual environment, safety, affordability, and political stability are key attractions, especially amid worsening U.S.-China relations. Diyana Pfordten, The Star, April 28
Malaysia ready to transform into AI-powered smart nation, says digital minister. Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo announced that Malaysia is prepared to become a smart nation by advancing full digitalisation and strengthening digital infrastructure. During a visit to Penang Island City Council’s Intelligent Operations Center, he emphasized that each state must implement its own smart city initiatives, highlighting Penang’s progress toward becoming an AI-driven city. Opalyn Mok, Malay Mail, April 28
Singapore
PM Wong appeals to voters to pick the best team, says more opposition will weaken S'pore. Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong urged voters to back the People’s Action Party, warning that significant opposition gains could weaken the government’s ability to govern effectively. Speaking at the PAP’s Fullerton Rally, he stressed that losing multiple ministers would undermine Singapore’s leadership during turbulent global times. Wong emphasized leadership renewal within the PAP and highlighted fresh candidates. Hariz Baharudin, The Straits Times, April 28
Employment growth slows in Q1 2025 amid economic uncertainty; retrenchments dip. Singapore’s employment growth slowed in the first quarter of 2025 due to escalating global trade conflicts and economic uncertainty, according to the Ministry of Manpower. Total employment grew by 2,300, down from 3,200 a year earlier. Retrenchments fell to 3,300, with business restructuring cited as the top reason. Unemployment edged up slightly but remained within the non-recessionary range. Lutfil Jumadi, Channel News Asia, April 28
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan bans May 9 Victory Day marches amid tensions. Kazakhstan has banned May 9 Victory Day marches, citing a lack of venues but against a backdrop of rising geopolitical sensitivity linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine. Since Moscow’s 2022 invasion, commemorations of the Soviet victory in World War II have become politically charged, with Kazakh authorities wary of events perceived as pro-Russian demonstrations. Authorities warned of legal action against unauthorized rallies. Kun Uz, April 28
Uzbekistan
Ministers of Uzbekistan and Afghanistan discussed cooperation development. Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov and Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Mawlavi Amir Khan Muttaqi reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations during a phone conversation. Special focus was given to the trans-Afghan railway project, seen as crucial for enhancing regional connectivity and promoting sustainable development. Uzbekistan Daily, April 27
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan, Iran sign memorandum on establishment of joint investment committee. Kyrgyz Economy Minister Bakyt Sydykov and Iranian officials signed a memorandum in Tehran to create a joint investment committee aimed at deepening bilateral economic ties. The agreement includes a €50 million credit line from Iran’s National Development Fund to support the export of Iranian technical and engineering services to Kyrgyzstan. Artem Suvorov, 24KG, April 28
Jamilya Isaeva steps down as Vice Speaker of Parliament of Kyrgyzstan. Deputy Speaker Jamilya Isaeva resigned from her post at the Zhogorku Kenesh on April 28 at her own request but will continue serving as a deputy. Elected in January 2022 from the Ata Zhurt Kyrgyzstan faction, Isaeva’s departure was announced without an official explanation. Her resignation marks a notable leadership change within Kyrgyzstan’s Parliament amid broader political shifts. Turdubek Alymbaev, 24KG, April 28
Northeast Asia
Asia’s Rise in the Global Currency Game as Uncertainties About the Dollar Grow. Recent developments in U.S. economic policy, including conflicting messages about the dollar’s role and the imposition of new tariffs under President Trump, have heightened doubts about the dollar’s reliability as the global reserve currency. Although a complete abandonment of the dollar remains unlikely due to its entrenched position, central banks are accelerating diversification of their reserves into nontraditional currencies such as the Australian dollar, Canadian dollar, Korean won, and Singapore dollar. While the Chinese renminbi has seen reduced market share recently, smaller, well-managed currencies continue gaining importance. Reserve diversification could improve the global financial system’s resilience, with Asia playing an increasingly pivotal role, not solely through major currencies but through a broader set of stable regional options. Barry Eichengreen, East Asia Forum, April 27
South Korea’s Escalating Early Education Fever. In Seoul’s affluent areas, children as young as four now face rigorous entrance exams for kindergartens, driven by South Korea’s intense societal emphasis on early academic achievement. The surge in toddler-focused hagwons reflects deep structural anxieties over future prospects, compounded by unstable university admission policies and ineffective government crackdowns on private education. Despite repeated reforms, private tutoring costs have soared, reinforcing parental fears that early competitive education is necessary. This cycle leads to student burnout, stifled creativity, and persistent mental health challenges. Comprehensive reforms must stabilize admissions, expand quality public education, and address broader socioeconomic pressures to restore balance to early childhood. Kyuseok Kim, East Asia Forum, April 26
Japan Needs Clarity as an Antidote to Contradictory Tariffs. Japan faces challenges in negotiating with the United States as Washington’s tariff policies pursue conflicting objectives, from raising revenue to reshoring manufacturing and correcting unfair trade practices. Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa is steering Japan’s response, including considering measured retaliatory tariffs. President Trump’s assertions that tariffs will not cause inflation contrast with his advisers’ views that a stronger dollar, resulting from tariffs, could ultimately undermine U.S. trade competitiveness. Japan must seek clarity and a consistent framework in dealing with the contradictions at the heart of U.S. economic policy. Shin Oya, The Japan Times, April 25
Southeast Asia
In U.S.-China Rivalry, Southeast Asia Is No One’s Prize – Why Do We Insist Otherwise? Southeast Asia continues to be framed as a battleground for U.S.-China competition, despite clear evidence that regional states maintain complex, multifaceted relationships with both powers. Countries like Malaysia demonstrate how trade, investment, and security ties can simultaneously flourish with China and the United States, defying simplistic dichotomies. China's recent diplomatic outreach, including Xi Jinping's visits to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia, coincided with U.S. tariffs but was not a direct reaction. Meanwhile, America's erratic policies under Donald Trump, including unilateral tariffs and dismissive rhetoric, have undermined its influence. Historical patterns show the U.S. traditionally treats Southeast Asia as a utilitarian asset, whether during the Cold War, the Global War on Terror, or the current tech rivalry. Southeast Asian nations would benefit more from strategies that increase their collective potential rather than being treated as pawns in external geopolitical narratives. Elina Noor, Lowy Institute, April 25
U.S. Trade Threats Leave Thailand in a Bind. The United States has imposed steep tariffs on Thai goods, severely threatening Thailand’s economy, which relies heavily on exports to the U.S. Recent measures include a 25% tariff on aluminium and a broader 36% tariff based on 2024 trade balances, marking the highest among major Asian economies after Vietnam. Thai diplomatic efforts to mitigate the damage have conflicted with efforts to deepen economic ties with China, such as infrastructure agreements and controversial deportations of Uyghurs. Internally, Thailand also faces mounting challenges with trade deficits, especially with China, and struggles in its automotive sector. Despite attempts to diversify partners and shield domestic industries, structural reforms may be necessary to meet U.S. demands and avoid long-term economic damage. Richard Yarrow, East Asia Forum, April 26
AI, Algorithms and Indigenous Agency in Taiwan. Taiwan’s Indigenous communities, long marginalized through colonization and assimilation, now face new challenges from AI-generated misrepresentations and misinformation. Viral falsehoods exploiting ethnic diversity and AI content trained on biased datasets have distorted Indigenous identities, undermining cultural specificity and trust. Although initiatives like New Zealand’s Maori-led AI project showcase how Indigenous-led development can preserve language and heritage, Taiwan currently lacks national policies ensuring Indigenous agency in AI design and deployment. To prevent further cultural erosion and harness AI for empowerment, Taiwan must center Indigenous perspectives in its digital future. Margaret Tu, East Asia Forum, April 25
Southeast Asia Central to Global Trade Response. Southeast Asia has responded to U.S. tariffs with restraint, emphasizing multilateral cooperation through ASEAN frameworks and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Leaders from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore avoided retaliatory tariffs, focusing instead on collective measures aligned with WTO rules to manage trade disruptions. As the U.S.-China trade decoupling accelerates and risks of global economic instability rise, ASEAN’s coordinated actions seek to safeguard the rules-based order. By leveraging open regionalism and strengthening domestic resilience through structural reforms, Southeast Asia aims to fill a leadership vacuum in global trade governance and maintain its strategic centrality. Mari Pangestu and Shiro Armstrong, East Asia Forum, April 25
The Philippines Navigates Shifting Political Currents in the South China Sea. Amid rising tensions with China, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has adopted a more assertive foreign policy compared to his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte, whose alleged secret agreement with Beijing sparked controversy. Recent incidents, including aggressive actions by the Chinese Coast Guard, have prompted Manila to formalize a provisional agreement with China, aiming to manage disputes while maintaining sovereignty claims. The internal political rift between Marcos Jr and the Dutertes has intertwined with foreign policy debates, influencing both domestic stability and Manila’s approach to the South China Sea. As the 2028 elections loom, these dynamics could reshape the Philippines’ political landscape. Aaron Jed Rabena, East Asia Forum, April 25
Indonesia’s Food Estates: Why Poor Public Policy Persists. Indonesia’s persistent attempts at achieving food self-sufficiency through food estate projects have repeatedly failed due to minimal public consultation, disregard for environmental and social impacts, and political motivations overriding practical planning. From Suharto’s 1995 Mega Rice Project to Prabowo Subianto’s renewed push in 2025, initiatives have struggled with land rights issues, environmental degradation, and declining agricultural productivity. Despite mounting evidence of failures, successive administrations have continued to pursue these projects, sidelining local communities and expert advice. Without systemic reforms to incorporate participatory policymaking and rigorous evaluation, Indonesia risks perpetuating ineffective and harmful agricultural policies. Fannesa Adisty Laksmita, Fulcrum, April 28
The Significance of the Malaysia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Malaysia’s CEPA with the UAE, signed on January 14, 2025, marks a move toward market diversification, encompassing goods, services, investment, digital trade, and Islamic economy cooperation. This first cross-border pact since Malaysia’s RCEP and CPTPP ratifications aims to increase exports, reduce non-tariff barriers, and leverage the UAE as a gateway to the Middle East and beyond. While promising broader regional integration via the GCC, challenges remain, particularly for SMEs facing compliance hurdles and regulatory complexities. Successful implementation will be crucial to translating CEPA’s potential into tangible economic benefits. Tham Siew Yean, Fulcrum, April 25