Asia Daily: April 4, 2025
China
Donald Trump’s pick for Beijing envoy affirms US commitment to one-China policy. David Perdue, President Trump’s nominee for U.S. ambassador to China, affirmed America’s adherence to the one-China policy while supporting Taiwan’s defense under the Taiwan Relations Act. During his Senate confirmation hearing, he warned of "some pain" from Trump’s strategy toward China, particularly in trade and supply chain realignment. Perdue urged allied support in countering Beijing’s influence and defended Trump’s tariffs as necessary to protect U.S. freedom and economic interests. Robert Delaney, South China Morning Post, April 4
Trump says China could get tariff relief if it approves TikTok deal. President Trump linked potential tariff relief for China to Beijing’s approval of a U.S.-led TikTok deal, amid escalating trade measures that include ending the “de minimis” duty exemption for low-value Chinese imports. The policy shift is expected to raise prices for U.S. consumers and pressure Chinese e-commerce platforms like Temu and Shein. Trump also imposed a 34% tariff on Chinese goods. Sylvia Ma and Kandy Wong, South China Morning Post, April 4
China, U.S. hold military maritime consultative agreement working group meeting. Chinese and U.S. military officials met in Shanghai for the 2025 Military Maritime Consultative Agreement working group session, conducting candid exchanges on maritime and aerial security. Both sides reviewed the implementation of safety protocols and explored ways to enhance military maritime security. China criticized U.S. reconnaissance and drills near its territory, warning such actions risk miscalculation and violate sovereignty. Xinhua, April 3
Japan
Japan lambastes Trump's tariff as 'extremely regrettable'. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi condemned President Trump’s 24% reciprocal tariff on Japanese goods, calling it “extremely regrettable” and urging a review of the measure. Hayashi raised concerns about the tariffs’ alignment with WTO and bilateral trade agreements, warning of broader economic repercussions. While withholding details on potential countermeasures, he announced plans for financial aid and consultation services for affected domestic businesses. The tariffs are set to begin April 9. Kei Kobayashi, The Asahi Shimbun, April 3
Japan, U.S., South Korea voice 'serious concerns' over North Korea moves. The foreign ministers of Japan, the United States, and South Korea expressed strong concern over North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs and its deepening military ties with Russia during a meeting in Brussels. The ministers pledged closer trilateral coordination and condemned cyber activities funding Pyongyang’s weapons development. Kyodo News, April 3
Ishiba to face more political headaches with return of scandal-hit LDP members. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s challenges are set to grow as the one-year suspension ends for Liberal Democratic Party lawmakers implicated in a political slush fund scandal. The return of figures such as Hakubun Shimomura and Yasutoshi Nishimura may inflame internal divisions and threaten Ishiba’s fragile leadership ahead of the Upper House election. Eric Johnston, The Japan Times, April 3
South Korea
Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment is upheld. South Korea’s Constitutional Court unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, citing his unconstitutional declaration of martial law, attempted dissolution of the National Assembly, and abuse of emergency powers. The court found he violated military neutrality and judicial independence. Yoon faces ongoing criminal proceedings for insurrection. An ad hoc presidential election must be held within 60 days. Yoon was detained after resisting arrest and obstruction by presidential security forces. Alex Gintz, The Asia Cable, April 4
South Korea's acting president calls for talks with U.S. over tariffs. Acting President Han Duck-soo urged negotiations with Washington after President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on South Korean goods, threatening major exports like automobiles. Emergency measures were ordered to support businesses, with officials warning the tariffs could reduce GDP by 0.16%. The government may increase U.S. imports to secure relief. Ju-min Park, Jihoon Lee and Yena Park, Reuters, April 3
Acting president vows to ensure stability after Yoon removed from office. Acting President Han Duck-soo pledged to maintain national security, manage trade disputes, and ensure a smooth transition following the Constitutional Court’s unanimous decision to remove President Yoon Suk Yeol. In a televised address and emergency Cabinet meeting, Han emphasized public order, political neutrality, and preparations for a snap presidential election. Kim Seung-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, April 4
North Korea
N. Korea says 'proud' economic results achieved in Q1 after cabinet meeting. North Korea reported achieving “proud” economic outcomes in the first quarter of 2025 during a cabinet meeting chaired by Premier Park Thae-song. Vice Premier Pak Jong-gun highlighted progress under state economic plans but called for greater discipline among workers. South Korean analysts suggest Pyongyang’s economy is receiving limited but targeted support, including an estimated $3 billion from Russia, funding showcase projects favored by Kim Jong-un. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, April 4
Empty promises: N. Korea’s new factories fail to deliver for ordinary citizens. North Korea’s new regional factories, showcased under the 20×10 development policy, have failed to improve everyday life for citizens, who report little access to the goods being produced. Despite publicized ribbon-cutting ceremonies and official claims of successful output, locals say most products are reserved for military and elite groups. Workers prioritize ideological activities over production, and shortages of raw materials limit operations. Seon Hwa, Daily NK, April 4
Thailand
189 ex-senators issue statement against casino, online gambling bills. A group of 189 former Thai senators, including three ex-Senate speakers, urged parliament to reject bills legalizing casinos and online gambling, citing risks to public welfare, transparency, and national security. They criticized the government for prioritizing the bills over earthquake relief and condemned the legislation as hastily introduced and economically unfounded. The statement warned of increased crime and social harm, referencing failed casino models in neighboring countries. The Nation, April 3
BJT denies rift with Pheu Thai. The Bhumjaithai Party dismissed speculation of tensions with coalition leader Pheu Thai, following Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s visit to Buri Ram, a BJT stronghold. Party secretary-general Chaichanok Chidchob said the visit had no political motives and highlighted the “Buri Ram Model” for development. He emphasized the coalition's unity and denied MotoGP contract discussions took place. Paetongtarn also affirmed there was never conflict between the parties. Mongkol Bangprapa, Bangkok Post, April 4
Vietnam
State president hosts welcome ceremony for Burundian counterpart. President Luong Cuong welcomed President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi in Hanoi, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The visit aims to deepen cooperation in politics, trade, and culture. Bilateral trade reached over $2 million in 2024, and Viettel's Lumitel mobile network has become Burundi’s top telecom provider. Vietnam News, April 4
U.S. tariff misaligned with bilateral cooperation: foreign ministry. Vietnam criticized the U.S. decision to impose a 46% reciprocal tariff on its exports, calling the move inconsistent with the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and damaging to both nations' economic ties. Foreign ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang emphasized ongoing talks with the US to resolve the issue constructively. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh convened an emergency cabinet meeting, formed a response team, and tasked Deputy PM Ho Duc Phoc with consulting exporters and traveling to the US and Cuba for negotiations. Vietnam News, April 4
Myanmar
U.N. aid chief to arrive in Myanmar on Friday. UN aid chief Tom Fletcher will travel to Myanmar on Friday following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake that killed over 3,000 people and left thousands injured and missing. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for urgent funding and unrestricted aid access, warning of worsening conditions with the monsoon season approaching. Special envoy Julie Bishop will also visit to support peace efforts. Michelle Nichols, Reuters, April 3
Head of Myanmar’s military government visits Thailand in rare overseas trip. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing arrived in Bangkok for a BIMSTEC summit, marking his first trip beyond Myanmar’s primary allies since 2021. His visit, amid a deadly earthquake that has killed over 3,000, drew condemnation from Myanmar’s shadow government and human rights activists, who said it legitimizes the junta. Thai officials defended the invitation as consistent with BIMSTEC protocol. AP News, April 3
Laos
Lao Business Forum highlights progress, challenges, path forward for private sector development. At the 16th Lao Business Forum, government officials, business leaders, and international partners met in Vientiane to assess Laos’ investment climate ahead of its 2026 graduation from Least Developed Country status. While the economy is projected to grow by 4.1%, inflation and foreign currency shortages persist. Key reforms include reduced business restrictions and digital tax filing, though licensing and credit access remain issues. Oulayvanh Sisounonth, The Laotian Times, April 3
Trump’s new reciprocal tariffs hit Laos, ASEAN hard, threatening key exports. The U.S. will impose a 58% tariff on Lao imports — 10% universal plus 48% reciprocal — under President Trump’s new trade policy, dealing a blow to Laos’ export-reliant economy. Key sectors like textiles, electronics, and coffee may suffer, with small businesses especially vulnerable. Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand also face high tariffs. Analysts warn the move aims to curb China’s regional influence but risks undermining ASEAN supply chains. Laos may increasingly turn to China amid the trade disruption. Beatrice Siviero, The Laotian Times, April 3
Cambodia
PP to host Cambodia-China ‘ironclad friendship’ forum. Phnom Penh will host a Cambodia-China forum on April 9 to deepen bilateral ties ahead of President Xi Jinping’s visit. Organized by the International Relations Institute of Cambodia, the event will highlight cooperation in politics, security, trade, and culture. Key figures from both countries are expected to attend. Despite speculation over foreign policy shifts under Prime Minister Hun Manet, officials reaffirm Cambodia’s commitment to China and its non-alignment stance. Ben Sokhean, Khmer Times, April 4
Trade Minister: Cambodia’s tariffs on U.S. goods are only 29.4%, not 97%. Cambodian Commerce Minister Cham Nimul stated that the highest tariff Cambodia imposes on U.S. imports is 29.4%, countering US President Donald Trump's claim of a 97% rate. As a WTO member, Cambodia applies tariff lines ranging from 0% to a maximum of 35% on all trade partners. Trump announced a 49% tariff on Cambodian imports effective April 9. In 2024, Cambodia-US trade totaled $10.18 billion, with Cambodia exporting $9.9 billion to the US and importing $264.14 million. Khmer Times, April 4
Philippines
Philippines assures China potential F-16 purchase not intended to harm any nation. The Philippines stated that its planned acquisition of 20 F-16 fighter jets from the U.S., valued at $5.58 billion, is solely for military modernization and not aimed at threatening other nations, including China. National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya emphasized the deal's defensive purpose. The U.S. has yet to formally notify the Philippines of the approval. Mikhail Flores, Reuters, April 3
Chinese research ship to be escorted out. The Philippine Coast Guard deployed the BRP Malapascua to escort the Chinese vessel Song Hang out of Philippine waters due to its erratic navigation through the Sulu Sea. Though the ship claimed to be exercising innocent passage en route to the Indian Ocean for fishing, its indirect route raised concerns over potential surveillance or data collection. Maritime security experts highlighted that the vessel’s behavior deviated from standard patterns, prompting increased scrutiny amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, April 4
'PH not going to war over Taiwan'. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin clarified that the Philippines has no intention of engaging in a war over Taiwan unless directly involved. His remarks followed Armed Forces Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.’s call for military readiness amid Chinese drills in the East China Sea. Bersamin stressed the government’s focus on preparedness and repatriation planning for the estimated 250,000 Filipinos in Taiwan, emphasizing that no agency would lead militarily and there is no immediate threat of conflict. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, April 4
Indonesia
PCO outlines President's steps to deal with turmoil, U.S. tariffs. The Presidential Communications Office announced three key measures by President Prabowo Subianto to address global instability and U.S. tariff impacts: expanding international trade partnerships, accelerating natural resource downstreaming, and strengthening domestic consumption. Actions include Indonesia’s BRICS membership bid, support for multilateral agreements, creation of a national investment agency for industrial development, and rollout of social programs such as Free Nutritious Meals and village cooperatives. ANTARA News, April 3
Singapore
Singapore firms brace for further uncertainty as Trump ignites widespread tariffs. Singapore businesses are reassessing operations after sweeping US tariffs, including a 10 percent universal levy on imports and a 54 percent rate on Chinese goods. Firms like Watson EP Industries face cost pressures and disrupted supply chains, while trade bodies warn of inflation, reduced competitiveness, and slower global growth. Affected sectors include manufacturing, logistics, and electronics, with calls for diversification and digitalisation to navigate rising uncertainty. Tang See Kit, Channel News Asia, April 3
Taiwan
Taiwan says U.S. tariffs unreasonable, partly blames Trump policies for trade surplus. Taiwan criticized new U.S. tariffs as unreasonable after President Trump imposed a 32% duty on its goods, exempting semiconductors. President Lai Ching-te cited U.S. tech curbs on China during Trump’s first term as a factor behind Taiwan’s growing trade surplus. The government pledged to continue discussions with Washington, stressing Taiwan’s contributions to U.S. economic and national security. Ben Blanchard, Reuters, April 3
Trump’s 32% tariff on Taiwanese imports stuns Taipei: ‘deeply unreasonable’. Taipei denounced President Trump’s 32% tariff on Taiwanese imports as “deeply unreasonable,” arguing it ignores Taiwan’s contributions to U.S. economic and security interests, including TSMC’s $100 billion investment. The tariff excludes semiconductors but threatens Taiwan’s export-driven economy. Taiwan pledged to pursue negotiations and emphasized its role in global supply chains. Lawrence Chung, South China Morning Post, April 3
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan makes bombshell announcement in advance of Central Asia-European Union summit. Kazakhstan revealed the discovery of over 20 million metric tons of rare earth metals, potentially ranking the country third globally in reserves behind China and Brazil. The announcement, timed just before the EU–Central Asia summit in Samarkand, aims to attract foreign investment. The summit focuses on trade, investment, and strategic partnerships, with the EU seeking greater access to the region’s critical minerals amid geopolitical shifts. Eurasianet, April 3
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Trade comments on new U.S. customs tariffs. Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Trade reported that 92 percent of its exports to the U.S.—primarily crude oil, uranium, silver, and ferroalloys—are exempt from new U.S. tariffs under an executive order targeting trade deficits. Only 4.8 percent of exports, valued at $95.2 million, including phosphorus, ferrosilicon, lenses, wheat gluten, and ammonium nitrate, will be affected. Kazakhstan is initiating talks with the U.S. for further exemptions. Yerzhan Zhanibekov, Qazinform, April 3
Uzbekistan
Russia and Uzbekistan strengthen cooperation on biological security issues. Russian and Uzbek officials met in Moscow on April 2 for interdepartmental consultations focused on biological security. The discussions covered assessments of current biological threats, prospects for enhanced bilateral cooperation, and efforts to strengthen the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention. Both nations affirmed their aligned positions and emphasized the need for continued coordination in international forums, including the United Nations. Uzbekistan Daily, April 3
Northeast Asia
What’s in a name? China tests Trump’s resolve on Taiwan. China deployed the Shandong aircraft carrier and 19 warships around Taiwan in large-scale military exercises recently designated “Strait Thunder-2025A.” These drills, featuring live-fire exercises, blockade simulations, and aerial incursions, coincide with heightened cross-strait tensions and Taiwan's reassertion of its sovereignty. A key departure from past practice was the initial lack of a codename, reflecting a new approach designed to appear routine rather than provocative. The release of strategic messaging posters shows a comprehensive coercion framework combining psychological operations with tactical force. This aims to normalize military activity, increase pressure without triggering crisis-level responses, and reinforce China’s sovereignty narrative. The use of coast guard vessels for law enforcement patrols around Taiwan further blurs civilian-military distinctions, bolstering territorial claims. The timing aligns with Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, potentially probing his foreign policy resolve amid reduced U.S. military commitments and strategic ambiguity on Taiwan. Sophie Wushuang Yi, Lowy Institute, April 2
The Quiet Crisis in the U.S.-Korea Alliance. The U.S.-South Korea alliance faces a "quiet crisis" due to prolonged political instability in Seoul and the onset of President Trump's second term. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's recent trip to reaffirm U.S. defense commitments in the Indo-Pacific notably excluded South Korea, as meeting with interim officials was deemed unproductive. This diplomatic gap has led to increased U.S. tariffs on South Korean exports, including steel, automobiles, and semiconductors, with unsuccessful exemption negotiations. The absence of South Korean leadership has also hindered coordination on North Korea policy, particularly regarding joint military exercises and engagement strategies. While both nations publicly downplay tensions, the lack of high-level dialogue and strategic alignment poses significant risks to regional security and economic interests. Victor Cha, CSIS, April 3
Public Perceptions About What the US Would Do if North Korea Invaded South Korea. A recent survey reveals a large disparity in expectations between Americans and South Koreans regarding the U.S. response to a potential North Korean invasion of South Korea. Nearly 25% of Americans believe the U.S. would take no action, whereas South Koreans exhibit greater confidence in U.S. support, anticipating at least the provision of weapons and intelligence. Notably, over 5% of Americans and more than 10% of South Koreans support the U.S. employing nuclear weapons in such a scenario. These findings demonstrate the challenges in aligning public expectations and raise concerns about the public's understanding of the consequences of U.S. involvement. The survey also highlights potential issues arising from President Trump's anticipated demands for increased military cost-sharing from South Korea and Japan, which could impact perceptions of U.S. defense commitments. Timothy S. Rich, 38 North, April 3
Kim Jong Un is Watching Trump's Ukraine Diplomacy With Interest. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is closely monitoring President Trump's diplomatic efforts in the Ukraine conflict, analyzing U.S. negotiation tactics and concessions. This scrutiny stems from Kim's prior engagements with Trump, notably the 2018 Singapore Summit and the 2019 Hanoi Summit, which ended without agreement, leading Kim to approach future U.S. overtures with skepticism. The current U.S. approach to Ukraine, including ceasefire negotiations and discussions on sanctions relief, provides Kim with insights into potential U.S. flexibility and commitment levels. This observation informs North Korea's strategy, especially as Trump has expressed interest in resuming talks with Pyongyang. However, North Korea has shown reluctance, possibly due to past experiences and current geopolitical dynamics. Daniel R. DePetris, 38 North, April 3
A U.S.-Europe Rift Fuels Closer U.S.-Taiwan Relations? Amid escalating tensions in Europe, the United States is intensifying its focus on the Indo-Pacific, notably strengthening ties with Taiwan. This pivot is evidenced by recent high-level engagements, including U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's visit to the Philippines to reaffirm mutual defense commitments and counterbalance China's regional influence. Concurrently, the U.S. has implemented measures to restrict China's access to advanced technologies and has signaled robust support for Taiwan through military aid packages and naval maneuvers in the Taiwan Strait. These actions reflect Washington's prioritization of Taiwan's security, recognizing its pivotal role in global high-tech industries. In response, Taiwan has adopted a more assertive stance toward Beijing, designating China as a "hostile external force" and increasing its defense budget from 2.5% to 3.0% of GDP, with aspirations to reach 10% as encouraged by the U.S. KS Liu, U.S.-China Perception Monitor, April 3.
Southeast Asia
Can Malaysia’s semiconductor industry stream upwards? Malaysia has established itself as a global leader in backend semiconductor services like assembly, testing, and packaging but remains limited in advanced segments such as integrated circuit design and high-end packaging. The 2024 National Semiconductor Strategy aims to address this by allocating RM25 billion over ten years for infrastructure, training, and R&D. Recent moves, including acquiring ARM chip design blueprints, signal intent to shift upstream, yet progress remains slow due to structural issues. These include a severe skills shortage, outdated curricula, limited R&D capacity, and ongoing talent migration, especially to Singapore. While initiatives aim to train tens of thousands of engineers, execution plans remain vague. Compounding challenges are global trends toward supply chain protectionism, with the U.S., Taiwan, and China heavily investing in domestic chip production. Malaysia faces an uphill battle to develop commercially viable chip designs amid dominant players like Nvidia and AMD. Its ability to translate blueprints into exportable products remains uncertain. The country may see limited success in niche markets, but without major improvements in innovation infrastructure and human capital, its ascent up the value chain could stall. Doris Liew, Lowy Institute, April 2
Singapore’s battle against illicit financial flows. Singapore’s success as a global and regional trade and financial hub has also made it a target for illicit financial flows (IFFs), particularly due to rising transnational crime in Southeast Asia. A US$2.2 billion money laundering case in 2022–2023 highlighted how online gambling and scamming operations in Cambodia and the Philippines laundered profits through Singapore, often via cryptocurrencies. Free trade zones have facilitated trafficking in illicit wildlife and counterfeit goods, while financial institutions have faced penalties for weak anti-money laundering controls in scandals like 1MDB and Wirecard. Singapore’s offshore markets have also attracted illicit capital outflows from Indonesia, including an estimated US$200 billion in 2014. Commodity trading, a key pillar of Singapore’s economy, remains vulnerable to fraud, as seen in the collapse of firms like Hin Leong and investigations into Trafigura. Despite regulatory tightening, Singapore struggles to balance financial openness with enforcement, especially given the scale and complexity of global commodity and financial transactions. As regional crime escalates, particularly from the Mekong region, the challenge intensifies. Singapore’s position as a thriving hub depends on how effectively it can manage the dual imperatives of economic dynamism and financial integrity. John Langdale, East Asia Forum, April 3
Oceania
Australia can help flip the switch on Southeast Asia’s energy transition. Southeast Asia’s energy transition faces obstacles in financing, policy execution, and overreliance on fossil fuels, with Indonesia and Malaysia spending billions on petroleum subsidies. Despite Australia's status as a major coal exporter, its ‘Future Made in Australia’ and ‘Southeast Asia Economic Strategy 2040’ frameworks position it as a vital partner for regional decarbonization. ASEAN nations have secured climate financing through initiatives like the Just Energy Transition Partnership, though funding delays and geopolitical shifts—such as Donald Trump’s return and his rollback of U.S. climate commitments—raise concerns about future support. The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism adds pressure by threatening economic losses for carbon-intensive ASEAN exports. Australia offers institutional strength, renewable resources, capital markets, and clean energy expertise, improved by forums like APEC and agreements like RCEP and the Singapore–Australia Green Economic Agreement. Recent partnerships, including a US$126.5 million capacity-building fund for Indonesia, demonstrate Australia’s intent to boost regional energy capacity. However, increased Australian investment and deeper implementation-level engagement are essential for Southeast Asia’s successful transition to clean energy. Cahyani Widi Larasakti, East Asia Forum, April 4