Asia Daily: April 3, 2025

China

China vows to retaliate after ‘bullying’ US imposes 34% reciprocal tariffs. China condemned the U.S. decision to impose 34% tariffs on its goods, calling it unilateral bullying and pledging retaliatory action. President Trump introduced the tariffs as part of a “Liberation Day” policy aimed at addressing perceived trade imbalances, with phased implementation starting April 5. China warned the move violates international rules and threatens bilateral ties. Bochen Han and Zhao Ziwen, South China Morning Post, April 3

China's State Council appoints, removes officials. The State Council announced several personnel changes, including the appointment of Xu Qingsen as vice minister of education and Xi Yanchun as vice president of Xinhua News Agency. Ma Yanming was named president of Zhejiang University with a vice ministerial rank. Yuan Bingzhong was removed from his role as vice president of Xinhua News Agency. Xinhua, April 2

China urges Philippines to refrain from playing with fire regarding Taiwan question. China warned the Philippines against making provocative statements on Taiwan, following remarks by the Philippine military chief suggesting inevitable involvement in any cross-strait conflict and accusing China of institutional infiltration. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated that the Taiwan issue is an internal matter and a core national interest of China, asserting that no external interference would be tolerated. Xinhua, April 2

Japan

Japan says it is leaving all options open against Trump's tariffs. Japanese Trade Minister Yoji Muto stated that Japan is considering all responses to U.S. President Trump’s new tariffs, which include a 24% rate on Japanese goods and a separate 25% tariff on car imports set to begin Thursday. Muto called the move “extremely regrettable” and questioned its consistency with WTO rules. A task force will be formed to assess the impact and assist affected sectors, especially Japan’s auto industry. Satoshi Sugiyama, Mariko Katsumura and Kantaro Komiya, Reuters, April 2

Japan seriously concerned U.S. tariffs not in line with WTO rules. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi expressed strong concern over U.S. President Trump’s decision to impose 24% reciprocal tariffs on Japanese goods, questioning their compatibility with WTO rules and bilateral trade commitments. Japan urged the U.S. to withdraw the measures, warning of significant harm to the global economy and multilateral trade frameworks. Tokyo continues to seek an exemption while evaluating further responses. Kyodo News, April 3

Japan PM Ishiba rides out headwinds, "weird" stability to be tested. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has maintained an unexpected political calm despite low approval ratings, LDP disunity, and scandals. Six months into his term, he passed a revised fiscal 2025 budget by adopting a conciliatory stance toward opposition parties. However, public support fell to 27.6% after a gift voucher scandal. As elections near, Ishiba faces challenges in reconciling policy priorities with voter expectations and managing internal LDP divisions. Noriyuki Suzuki, Kyodo News, April 2

South Korea

South Korea's acting president orders emergency measures over U.S. tariffs. Acting President Han Duck-soo directed emergency support for businesses affected by new U.S. tariffs, particularly in the automotive sector. He instructed officials to analyze the tariffs and engage in negotiations with Washington. President Trump announced a 25% tariff on South Korea, accusing the country of unfair trade practices. Economists warned of major export disruptions, including through Vietnam-based production. Ju-min Park and Jihoon Lee, Reuters, April 2

Yoon not to attend impeachment ruling session on Friday: legal team. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will not appear before the Constitutional Court for its impeachment ruling on Friday, citing public order and security concerns. Yoon faces charges of violating the Constitution through a brief martial law declaration on December 3, which he defended as a warning against legislative overreach. A minimum of six out of eight justices must agree to uphold the motion. Oh Seok-min, Yonhap News Agency, April 3

Yoon not to attend impeachment ruling session on Friday: legal team. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will not appear before the Constitutional Court for its impeachment ruling on Friday, citing public order and security concerns. Yoon faces charges of violating the Constitution through a brief martial law declaration on December 3, which he defended as a warning against legislative overreach. A minimum of six out of eight justices must agree to uphold the motion. Oh Seok-min, Yonhap News Agency, April 3

North Korea

Latest North Korean ship can carry dozens of missiles, analysts say. Satellite imagery suggests North Korea’s new class of warship may carry over 50 missiles using vertical launch systems, enhancing strike capabilities and potential export appeal. Analysts believe the ships can deploy various missiles, including cruise and ballistic types. While technologically inferior to U.S. and South Korean vessels, the ship reflects Pyongyang's commitment to naval modernization and deterrence. Gerry Doyle, Reuters, April 2

N. Korea's top university eyes office at Siberia's research hub. Kim Il Sung University is considering establishing a representative office at Russia’s Novosibirsk State University, part of the Siberian research cluster Akademgorodok. The initiative aims to boost bilateral scientific and educational cooperation through joint research, academic exchanges, and conferences. This move follows a January visit by a North Korean delegation and reflects growing North Korea–Russia ties, deepened by a mutual defense pact and collaboration in military, scientific, and energy sectors. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, April 3

Thailand

Senate panel to study proposed casino project's impacts. Thailand’s Senate will establish a committee to assess the social and political effects of a proposed casino-entertainment complex as the House prepares to review the relevant bill on April 9. The Senate remains divided, with many senators calling for a public referendum. Activists and opposition leaders argue the bill lacks public backing and comprehensive study. Aekarach Sattaburuth, Bangkok Post, April 3

Thailand and Nepal forge closer ties, boosting trade and Buddhist tourism. Thailand and Nepal pledged deeper cooperation across trade, tourism, and development during Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli’s historic visit—the first in 66 years. Eight agreements were signed, with a focus on hydropower, herbal agriculture, and Buddhist tourism. Both sides committed to lowering trade barriers and enhancing knowledge exchange. The Nation, April 2

Vietnam

Vietnamese, Russian foreign ministers hold talks in Moscow. Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son and Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed their countries' strategic partnership during talks in Moscow. Both sides committed to expanding cooperation in energy, infrastructure, science, education, and tourism, and emphasized the importance of the Vietnam–Eurasian Economic Union free trade agreement. Son proposed visa exemptions for Vietnamese citizens and urged continued support for the diaspora. Vietnam News, April 2

Myanmar

Myanmar’s military declares a ceasefire to ease quake relief as deaths pass 3,000. Myanmar’s military government announced a temporary ceasefire until April 22 to support relief efforts after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake killed more than 3,000 and injured over 4,500. The ceasefire follows similar declarations by resistance groups, though the military warned against attacks or regrouping. Rescue operations continue amid collapsed infrastructure and widespread power outages. David Rising, Matthew Lee, Jamey Keaten, Jintamas Saksornchai and Grant Peck, AP News, April 2

China urges Myanmar to protect rescuers after military fires shots at aid convoy. China called on Myanmar to guarantee the safety of foreign aid workers after its military fired warning shots near a Chinese Red Cross convoy delivering earthquake relief. The junta claimed the convoy entered a conflict zone without approval. China confirmed its personnel and supplies were unharmed and reiterated its commitment to support rescue efforts. Kawala Xie, South China Morning Post, April 2

Laos

Former President Khamtai Siphandone passes away at 101. Former Lao President Khamtai Siphandone died at his home in Vientiane on April 2 at the age of 101. A national mourning period will be observed from April 3 to 7, with his funeral scheduled at That Luang Ground on April 7. Khamtai was a key revolutionary figure, serving as Prime Minister from 1991 and President from 1998 to 2006. He is survived by his children, including current Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. Thongsavanh Souvannasane, The Laotian Times, April 2

Cambodia

Cambodia tops list of new Trump tariffs, 49%. U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 49% tariff on goods from Cambodia—the steepest among a series of new trade measures announced on April 2, labeled “America’s Liberation Day.” Other affected countries include Vietnam (46%), Sri Lanka (44%), and China (34%). The U.S., Cambodia’s largest export destination, accounted for 37.9% of its export value in 2024, with total bilateral trade reaching $10.18 billion. Cambodian exports to the U.S. primarily consist of clothing, travel goods, and footwear. Hin Pisei, The Phnom Penh Post, April 2

Philippines

Cabinet members snub Senate hearing on Duterte’s arrest. Cabinet officials declined to attend the Senate foreign relations panel’s second public hearing on the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, citing executive privilege and the sub judice rule. Presided over by Sen. Imee Marcos, the session saw attendance from only three SEC legal representatives. Allies Sen. Bong Go and Sen. Bato dela Rosa were also present. Agencies had initially confirmed attendance but later withdrew per Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin’s directive. Charie Abarca, Philippine Daily Inquirer, April 3

Marcos trust, approval ratings plummet. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s approval rating fell to 19% and his trust rating to 14%, the lowest in his term, according to PUBLiCUS Asia’s latest survey. The decline is attributed to public dissatisfaction over inflation, corruption, and his support for the ICC's warrant against former President Duterte. Vice President Sara Duterte saw increases in both ratings, rising to 42% approval and 39% trust. Senate and House leaders also experienced notable declines. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, April 3

Taiwan

China concludes two-day war games around Taiwan after live fire drills. China wrapped up two days of military exercises around Taiwan that included live-fire drills in the East China Sea and simulated precision strikes on critical infrastructure. The drills, part of Strait Thunder-2025A, featured participation from the aircraft carrier Shandong and included operations simulating blockades. Taiwan responded with rapid deployment exercises but reported no live fire near the island itself. The U.S., EU, and Japan criticized Beijing’s actions as destabilizing. Joe Cash, Yimou Lee and Ben Blanchard, Reuters, April 2

Han Kuang extended to two weeks of wargames, 10 day live-fire drills. Taiwan’s annual Han Kuang military exercises will be extended this year to include two weeks of computerized tabletop wargames and 10 days of live-fire drills, the longest in their 41-year history. Simulations will use the U.S.-built Joint Theater Level Simulation platform to test response to a sudden Chinese attack. The July live-fire phase will feature new weaponry and unscripted scenarios. Urban resilience drills will also integrate civil-military coordination across 11 regions. Taipei Times, April 3

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan and China share information on transboundary rivers. Kazakhstan and China continue to exchange data on floods and ice conditions under a 2005 agreement on transboundary rivers. In March, the two countries signed their first memorandum of understanding on sustainable water cooperation, covering technology, alternative sources, and joint training. Amid rising flood risks due to snowmelt and precipitation, Kazakh authorities have mobilized regional efforts, reinforced riverbeds, and prepared evacuation plans. Zhanna Nurmaganbetova, Qazinform, April 2

Uzbekistan

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrives in Uzbekistan. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Uzbekistan on April 2 to attend the first "Central Asia — European Union" summit, held in Samarkand from April 1 to 4 under the chairmanship of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. She was welcomed at Samarkand International Airport by Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov and other officials before proceeding to her residence. Uzbekistan Daily, April 2

Turkmenistan

Forced and child labor persist in Turkmen cotton harvest, UN experts say. The International Labour Organization confirmed ongoing forced and child labor in Turkmenistan’s 2024 cotton harvest despite a government ban. Public sector employees and children were mobilized, with over one-third of staff pressured by management. Women made up over 90% of pickers, most working long hours without contracts. Pay remained unstable despite increases. EU sanctions loom under new forced labor regulations. Vagit Ismailov, The Times of Central Asia, April 1

Northeast Asia

Seoul’s Dilemma in the Face of a New Sole Pacing Threat and Scenario. Amidst President Yoon Suk Yeol's pending impeachment verdict, concerns are mounting in Seoul over potential shifts in the role of United States Forces Korea (USFK). These changes may compel South Korea to align more closely with U.S. strategies concerning China, prompting fundamental questions about the U.S.-ROK alliance's purpose. The U.S. Department of Defense's 2022 National Defense Strategy identifies China as the "pacing challenge," suggesting a reorientation of U.S. military focus in the Indo-Pacific region. This redefinition could lead to the transformation of USFK into a Multi-Domain Task Force (MDTF). Such a change raises apprehensions in South Korea regarding the steadfastness of U.S. extended deterrence commitments, especially if USFK's presence becomes more flexible and regionally focused. South Korean officials express concerns that this evolution might necessitate Seoul to adopt new defense strategies, potentially including the development of indigenous nuclear capabilities, to address perceived gaps in deterrence. The prospect of USFK's expanded regional role also sparks debates about South Korea's involvement in broader U.S. initiatives aimed at countering China's influence, challenging Seoul to balance its strategic interests between its alliance with the United States and its economic ties with China. Clint Work, Korea Economic Institute of America, April 2

South Korean EV manufacturers gain traction as Chinese rivals face tariffs.
Rising global tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles have opened a window for South Korean EV makers to boost exports, with projections indicating a 10% gain following a 20% tariff increase on Chinese EVs. The United States and European Union have imposed steep tariffs—up to 100% and 45% respectively—on Chinese vehicles, citing unfair advantages. A 25% US tariff on Mexican imports further restricts Chinese market access, benefiting Korean firms with less exposure in Mexico. Despite this, Chinese EVs remain competitively priced, even under tariffs, and continue to outperform Korean rivals in both domestic and global markets. To maintain competitiveness, South Korean manufacturers are focusing on quality, design, innovation, and transparency. Kia and Hyundai’s recent strategic initiatives, such as Amazon-based car sales and advanced vehicle platforms, aim to differentiate their offerings. The US Inflation Reduction Act has also bolstered South Korean battery exports, supported by exemptions allowing continued use of Chinese graphite until 2026. However, the Act’s future remains uncertain amid Republican efforts to curtail its scope. In this changing landscape, Korean EV and battery producers must adapt quickly to policy changes and global competition to strengthen their market position. Sheewon Min, East Asia Forum, April 2

Southeast Asia

Deadly Blunders in Bangkok. The collapse of a 30-story building under construction in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, triggered by a 7.7 magnitude earthquake, has left at least 15 dead and 72 missing, casting a harsh spotlight on China Railway No. 10 Engineering Group, the Chinese state-owned enterprise subsidiary behind the project. As rescue efforts continue, the incident has sparked public outrage in Thailand, intensified by apparent attempts by the company and Chinese authorities to suppress information, including the removal of social media posts that previously celebrated the building’s construction. The building was touted as a symbol of Chinese engineering, praised for its seismic resilience just weeks before its failure. Deleted news articles, censored posts, and muted domestic coverage in China have shown efforts to control the narrative. At the same time, Chinese state media moved focus to China’s humanitarian aid to Myanmar, promoting it as an example of responsible global leadership, while state-run outlets like Hong Kong’s Ta Kung Pao criticized the absence of American aid. The incident has not only exposed critical questions about construction quality and accountability but has also revealed the extent of media control in managing politically sensitive disasters. Alex Colville, China Media Project, April 2

Taking Southeast Asia’s Pulse on Geopolitics. The latest State of Southeast Asia survey reveals a change in regional sentiment favoring the United States over China, with 52.3% of respondents preferring alignment with the U.S., up from 49.5% the previous year. This change reflects Southeast Asia's desire to maintain a balance of power amid escalating U.S.-China trade tensions and global conflicts. Notably, 44.9% express confidence in the U.S. as a strategic partner and regional security provider, an increase from 34.9% last year. Countries like Laos, the Philippines, and Vietnam are particularly optimistic about U.S. engagement, viewing it as a counterbalance to China's growing influence. Additionally, 46.0% anticipate improved bilateral relations with the U.S. during President Trump's second term, with Vietnam showing the highest optimism at 73.6%. This trend demonstrates the region's pragmatic approach to dealing with major power dynamics to ensure continued economic development and stability. Sharon Seah, Fulcrum, April 3

Malaysia’s DAP in the Post-Lim Era: Fighting Demographic Realities. The Democratic Action Party (DAP) has transitioned to third-generation leadership with Anthony Loke re-elected as Secretary-General, succeeding Lim Guan Eng. This occurs amid challenges in expanding the party's multi-racial appeal and maintaining Chinese representation in government, as the Malaysian Chinese population declined from 24.5% in 2010 to 23.2% in 2020, with projections indicating a further decrease to 20% by 2040. DAP's efforts to contest in Malay-majority constituencies have seen limited success, and its role is now confined to representing Chinese-majority or mixed constituencies within the current political alliance with Barisan Nasional. This arrangement restricts DAP's ability to broaden its influence, necessitating reliance on allies to ensure continued Chinese representation in government. Adib Zalkapli, Fulcrum, April 2

Central Asia

Prosperity for Kazakhstan starts at home. Kazakhstan's sustainable development hinges on tackling domestic political and economic challenges rather than becoming overly consumed by US–China strategic rivalry. While the country benefits from economic ties with both powers—such as Pfizer's $1.6 billion vaccine facility and China's rise as Kazakhstan’s top trading partner—its real transformation depends on reforming institutions, combating entrenched corruption, and diversifying beyond natural resources. The 2022 unrest revealed deep frustrations over governance and inequality, with persistent rent-seeking and capital outflows undermining public trust and efficient social spending. Despite some structural changes since independence, Kazakhstan remains vulnerable to commodity price fluctuations and uneven regional development, with rural areas lagging behind urban centers like Astana and Almaty. Addressing disparities through infrastructure investment and fostering sectors like halal meat production could stimulate inclusive growth. Embracing a decarbonization agenda may further support economic diversification. Kazakhstan’s future prosperity depends on strengthening judicial independence, improving transparency, and promoting innovation, ensuring citizens shape their own economic destiny. Guanie Lim and Linda Tija, East Asia Forum, April 3

South Asia

The Gorge Between China and India on Hydropolitics. China's approval of a $137 billion hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River near its disputed border with India has led to miscommunication and concern. International and Indian media have largely portrayed the initiative as the construction of the "world's largest dam," raising alarms in India about potential geopolitical and environmental implications. In contrast, Chinese sources describe the project as involving two reservoirs situated hundreds of kilometers upstream from the border, utilizing advanced hydropower technology to channel water through tunnels in the Himalayas, thereby minimizing ecological disruption. This disparity in reporting demonstrates the challenges in China-India hydropolitics, where misinterpretations and limited information exacerbate tensions over shared water resources. Ruth Gamble and Hongzhang Xu, The Diplomat, April 2

How Indonesia’s Revised Military Law Could Impact Regional Security Dynamics. Indonesia's parliament has passed amendments to the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Law, pending President Prabowo Subianto’s approval. These revisions permit active military officers to occupy positions in a broader range of civilian agencies and expand the TNI's non-combat roles to include assisting in countering cyber threats and protecting Indonesian citizens and national interests abroad. This reflects Jakarta's heightened concern over regional conflicts, particularly regarding Taiwan. Historically, Indonesia's defense strategy has been domestically focused, addressing internal challenges like separatism. The amended law suggests a move toward a more proactive regional security posture, potentially involving the TNI in operations beyond national borders. The practical implementation of these changes will be outlined in forthcoming government regulations. Edna C. Pattisina, The Diplomat, April 2

Oceania

Australia in Trump’s new tariff order. President Trump has introduced sweeping US tariff hikes, including a new 10% baseline tariff effective April 5 and steep “reciprocal” tariffs from April 9 targeting over 50 nations with high trade surpluses with the US. Australia is subject only to the baseline tariff, avoiding harsher measures imposed on economies like China (34%), Vietnam (46%), and Japan (24%). These tariffs aim to reduce trade deficits, attract manufacturing investment, and increase revenue. Exemptions include goods under existing trade actions and strategic imports like energy and gold. Some countries attempted to avoid the tariffs through investment pledges in US industry but were unsuccessful. While Australia benefits from relatively favorable treatment, it may face indirect risks if US trade partners divert purchases away from Australian exports in favor of US goods. Additionally, displaced Chinese exports may flood global markets, including Australia, which lacks strong legal tools to respond to such surges. The unilateral nature of these tariffs marks a shift from US support for multilateral trade rules, potentially undermining the WTO’s MFN principle. Australia is urged to uphold open trade values and strengthen alliances with like-minded partners. Stephen Moran, Lowy Institute, April 2

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