China
China limits Nvidia chip purchases to special circumstances, Information reports. China has told some technology firms that purchases of Nvidia’s H200 artificial intelligence chips will only be approved under special circumstances. The directive allows limited use such as university research and signals caution about reopening the market to advanced U.S. chips. The move reflects Beijing’s push to prioritise domestic AI development amid U.S. export controls. Zaheer Kachwala, Reuters, January 13
U.S. approves Nvidia H200 chip exports to China with some conditions. The Trump administration approved exports of Nvidia’s H200 AI chips to China under conditions including third-party technical reviews and usage restrictions. Shipments will be capped and require assurances that the chips are not used for military purposes. The decision has drawn criticism from U.S. lawmakers concerned about boosting China’s AI capabilities. Karen Freifeld, David Shepardson, and Alexandra Alper, Reuters, January 13
G7, other allies discuss ways to reduce dependence on Chinese rare earths. Finance ministers from the G7 and other major economies met in Washington to discuss reducing reliance on Chinese rare earth supplies. Talks included proposals for price floors, new supply partnerships, and expanded recycling to diversify critical mineral sources. Officials said there was broad agreement on the need to move quickly while avoiding full economic decoupling from China. Maria Martinez and Kanishka Singh, Reuters, January 13
Chinese state media repositions sci-fi space and air combat aircraft as tech target. Chinese state media said integrated space-air combat aircraft featured in the Nantianmen Project should be viewed as achievable future technology rather than science fiction. A CCTV military programme reframed conceptual designs dating back to 2017 as realistic aerospace development goals. Models such as the Baidi fighter have been promoted as symbols of long-term military innovation. Amber Wang, South China Morning Post, January 12
Canadian prime minister visits China after nearly a decade of tense relations. Prime Minister Mark Carney departed for China on his first visit to Beijing since 2017, seeking to improve trade and security ties as relations with the United States grow uncertain. Officials said discussions may include crude oil exports and progress on canola tariffs, though human rights and security concerns remain. The trip signals a potential recalibration of Canada’s China policy. Maria Cheng, Wa Lone, Divya Rajagopal, and Ed White, Reuters, January 13
Hong Kong trial of media tycoon Jimmy Lai concludes mitigation phase. Hong Kong’s High Court concluded mitigation hearings in the national security trial of media tycoon Jimmy Lai ahead of sentencing. Lawyers sought reduced sentences for Lai and eight co-defendants linked to the former Apple Daily newspaper, while judges said sentencing issues were complex. The case has drawn sustained international attention over press freedom and human rights. Jessie Pang and James Pomfret, Reuters, January 13
Japan
Japan PM Takaichi to call for election when Diet convenes next week: source. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi plans to dissolve Japan’s Lower House at the start of the regular Diet session on Jan. 23, paving the way for a rare February general election, a source said. The move comes as her three-month-old Cabinet posts high approval ratings despite a razor-thin ruling majority. An early election could complicate passage of the fiscal 2026 budget. Kyodo News, January 13
CDP and Komeito agree to create new centrist force, but questions remain. Japan’s Constitutional Democratic Party and Komeito agreed to work toward forming a new centrist opposition force as speculation grows over a snap election. Party leaders cited shared centrist principles but acknowledged uncertainty over candidate coordination and policy alignment. Timing pressures could test cooperation if an election is called soon. Eric Johnston, The Japan Times, January 13
Takaichi, Lee tout improved Tokyo-Seoul ties at Nara summit. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung said talks in Nara marked continued improvement in bilateral relations. The leaders cited progress on historical issues, economic security, and cooperation against cross-border fraud. The summit comes as Tokyo weighs a snap election and seeks to underscore stable regional diplomacy. Author, The Asahi Shimbun, January 13
DPP’s Tamaki: Budget support ‘fluid’ if snap election called. Opposition Democratic Party for the People leader Yuichiro Tamaki warned his party may withdraw support for the fiscal 2026 budget if the government calls a snap election. He said dissolution would undermine trust tied to an agreement to pass the budget within the fiscal year. The party’s cooperation on related legislation is now uncertain. Yuki Minami, The Asahi Shimbun, January 13
South Korea
Cheong Wa Dae expects verdict on death penalty sought for ex-President Yoon in accordance with law. Cheong Wa Dae said it expects courts to rule according to law and public expectations after prosecutors sought the death penalty for former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The request followed the final hearing over Yoon’s failed martial law declaration in December 2024. The ruling Democratic Party called the demand a reasonable outcome and urged the court to show no leniency. Kim Seung-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, January 13
Ex-ruling party whip refuses to leave party, seeks time to explain misconduct allegations. Former Democratic Party floor leader Kim Byung-kee said he is appealing his expulsion and asked for time to explain allegations of bribery and abuse of power involving himself and family members. Kim resigned his leadership post last month but said leaving the party voluntarily would violate his moral principles. He said he would quit politics if found legally responsible while maintaining his innocence. Kim Seung-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, January 13
Confirmation hearing for budget minister nominee set for next Mon. Rival parties agreed to hold a confirmation hearing next Monday for Lee Hye-hoon, nominee to lead South Korea’s new Ministry of Planning and Budget. Lawmakers plan to question Lee over allegations tied to her husband’s real estate dealings and her conduct toward staff. The hearing may be postponed if the requested documents are not submitted in time. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, January 13
Ethics committee of main opposition party votes to expel ex-leader Han Dong-hoon. The People Power Party’s ethics committee voted to expel former leader Han Dong-hoon over allegations that his family posted defamatory comments about former President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife on a party forum. The committee said the actions severely damaged the party and violated its rules. Han said he would continue to defend democracy, while party lawmakers remained divided. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, January 14
Vietnam
Trump's pick as Vietnam envoy sets sights on trade gap as Hanoi's surplus with US tops China's. The Trump administration’s nominee for U.S. ambassador to Vietnam said she will focus on addressing what Washington views as imbalanced trade ties. Vietnam’s goods trade surplus with the United States has reached record levels and recently surpassed China’s amid ongoing tariff disputes. Analysts said Hanoi will remain under pressure regardless of pending U.S. court rulings on tariffs. Francesco Guarascio, Reuters, January 13
Thailand
Thanathorn casts poll as turning point. Progressive Movement leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit said the Feb. 8 election will determine whether Thailand moves toward reform or remains politically stagnant. Campaigning for the People’s Party, he framed the vote as a choice between a Bhumjaithai-led government and one led by reformists. He also urged support for the referendum to enable constitutional amendments and restore democratic governance. Bangkok Post, January 14
Academics sound alarm ahead of poll. A group of Thai academics warned that the country is nearing a breaking point and urged voters to reject parties they say undermine long-term development. The group cited structural economic weakness, justice system failures, and entrenched patronage networks as urgent risks. It called for deep economic, legal, and governance reforms after the Feb. 8 election. Aekarach Sattaburuth, Bangkok Post, January 14
Myanmar
USDP Claims Sweeping Wins in Second Phase of Junta’s Election. Myanmar’s military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party claimed it won about 80% of constituencies in the second phase of the junta-run election held across 100 townships. The vote is widely viewed as illegitimate after the military jailed elected leaders and dissolved major opposition parties, including the National League for Democracy. Allegations of intimidation, vote manipulation, and malfunctioning voting machines were reported, with a third phase scheduled for Jan. 25. Myo Pyae, The Irrawaddy, January 13
Philippines
PH, UAE sign free trade agreement. The Philippines and the United Arab Emirates signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week summit. The deal marks the Philippines’ first free trade pact with a Middle Eastern country and aims to reduce tariffs, expand market access, and boost investment and professional services. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the agreement strengthens Manila’s trade footprint and ties with the Gulf region. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, January 13
PH yet to receive arrest warrant for dela Rosa. Philippine officials said they have not received a formal arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said no government agency has been shown an official copy despite reports circulating about an ICC order. Dela Rosa, a key figure in the former administration’s drug war, has stopped attending Senate sessions amid the reports. Kristina Maralit, The Manila Times, January 13
45 Chinese ships spotted in WPS. Philippine military officials reported spotting 45 Chinese vessels in various areas of the West Philippine Sea during the first week of 2026. The ships included Chinese navy, coast guard, and maritime militia vessels operating near several contested features. The Armed Forces of the Philippines said the increased presence is being monitored closely but has not yet crossed into overtly coercive behavior. Izel Abanilla and Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, January 13
Taiwan
Taiwan and the U.S. launch joint production of 155mm artillery shells amid blockade fears. Taiwan has begun early-stage joint production of 155mm artillery shells with the United States to strengthen wartime ammunition resilience. Defence officials cited lessons from Ukraine and risks of supply disruption from a potential Chinese blockade. The project is expected to expand to other munitions if initial production meets requirements. Lawrence Chung, South China Morning Post, January 13
Taiwan thanks Canada for its support ahead of prime minister's China trip. Taiwan President Lai Ching-te thanked Canada for its support following recent Chinese military drills as Canada’s prime minister prepared to visit China. Lai cited progress in trade and technology ties, including a landmark investment agreement signed in 2023. Two Canadian lawmakers ended a Taiwan visit early to avoid complicating Canada’s China diplomacy. Ben Blanchard and Fabian Hamacher, Reuters, January 13
Taiwan thanks Canada for its support ahead of prime minister's China trip. Taiwan President Lai Ching-te thanked Canada for its support following recent Chinese military drills as Canada’s prime minister prepared to visit China. Lai cited progress in trade and technology ties, including a landmark investment agreement signed in 2023. Two Canadian lawmakers ended a Taiwan visit early to avoid complicating Canada’s China diplomacy. Ben Blanchard and Fabian Hamacher, Reuters, January 13
India
India's palm oil imports drop to 8-month low as refiners shift to rival oils. India’s palm oil imports fell to an eight-month low in December as refiners increased purchases of soyoil and sunflower oil during weaker winter demand. Trade data showed palm oil shipments declined about 20% from November, while imports of rival oils rose sharply. Analysts said palm oil imports could rebound as its price discount widens. Rajendra Jadhav, Reuters, January 13
Turkemenistan
ADB supports Turkmenistan’s power grid modernization with $500 million project. The Asian Development Bank is backing a $500 million program to modernize Turkmenistan’s electricity network, marking its first energy-sector project in the country. The initiative has financed about 1,400 kilometers of high-voltage transmission lines and 11 substations to improve grid reliability and expand electricity export capacity. Power exports increased significantly as system stability improved under the project. Sadokat Jalolova, The Times of Central Asia, January 13
East Asia
A new generation of Chinese companies is expanding around the world. Chinese brands are building global footprints in retail, food, vehicles, software, and cloud services, with stores in Manhattan from Urban Revivo, Luckin Coffee, and Mixue. Listed Chinese firms generated 15 trillion yuan in overseas sales in 2024, up from less than 11.6 trillion yuan in 2021, and outbound investment exceeds foreign investment into China. BYD overtook Tesla in electric vehicle sales, with over one fifth of sales outside China. Firms are moving from export models toward overseas factories, data centers, and local distribution, supported by growing hiring of local staff. Expansion faces regulatory risk, illustrated by the planned forced sale of TikTok’s U.S. business and U.S. action to unwind a purchase of EMCORE assets. The Economist, January 13
Canonizing Hu Yaobang: Memory, Discipline and Power in Xi Jinping’s China. Xi Jinping marked Hu Yaobang’s 110th birthday to recast the 1980s as reform under Party command during economic strain, social unease, and new purges, including in the People’s Liberation Army. Hu rose as general secretary, rehabilitated victims of Mao-era campaigns, promoted younger officials, and faced removal in 1987 after tolerating limited political opening; his 1989 death helped spark the student protests that ended in the Tiananmen crackdown. Xi draws on an official 1989 assessment to stress discipline, loyalty, and integrity while setting aside liberalization. The ceremony frames Hu as a behavioral model for cadres and military elites and signals continuity linked to Xi Zhongxun. Emanuele Rossi and Enrico Maria Fardella, China Observers, January 12
Are You Dead Yet? “Are You Dead Yet?” reached number one on China’s Apple paid charts and triggered online debate over taboos around death and fortune. The Henan startup released the 8 yuan app in March 2025 for people who live alone to confirm safety with a daily one-click check-in. Missed check-ins trigger alerts to emergency contacts. The app targets risks tied to China’s rise in single-person households, listed at 125 million in 2020 with a projection of 200 million by 2030. Downloads rose by a factor of 100 to more than 12,000 within 24 hours, according to Chinese media. Critics on Douyin called the name harsh and proposed “Are You Alive?” Developers signaled openness to a rename and planned SMS and elder-friendly features. Dalia Parete, China Media Project, January 13
Leveraging Japan’s Appetite for U.S. Investment and Partnership in Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology. U.S.-Japan cooperation in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology can strengthen economic security through trusted supply chains, a deeper U.S. innovation ecosystem, and expanded access to Japan’s market. Supply-chain work features in the Technology Prosperity Deal, and Japan’s investment push includes a JBIC facility tied to a $550 billion pledge by 2029. U.S. dependence on China for key inputs, tariff planning, and the BIOSECURE Act in the 2025 NDAA raise due diligence and restructuring demands. Japanese firms are scaling U.S. manufacturing, including Fujifilm’s $3.2 billion North Carolina biologics CDMO that started operations in September 2025 and Ajinomoto’s purchase of Forge Biologics. Japan is also backing startup expansion into U.S. hubs through programs and targets for new biotech champions, while U.S. policy predictability remains a key factor for investment decisions. Makoto Tsujiguchi, CSIS, January 13
Southeast Asia
Spectre of uncertainty haunts US–Southeast Asia trade. US tariff policy for Southeast Asia remains a flashpoint in the US and China trade dynamic. Headline reciprocal rates are 19 per cent for Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand, 20 per cent for Vietnam, and 10 per cent for Singapore, but effective rates vary after exemptions, with Section 232 investigation products entering duty free. In September 2025, effective rates ranged from 19.7 per cent for Indonesia to 2.6 per cent for Singapore, and duty free shares ranged from 11 per cent for Indonesia to 75 per cent for Singapore. The United States reached trade agreements with Cambodia and Malaysia and pursued talks with Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. A Supreme Court ruling on IEEPA may shift tariff authority, sustaining uncertainty. John Goyer, East Asia Forum, January 13
Why Prabowo needs to strengthen information management in his administration. President Prabowo Subianto has built a closed decision system that blocks early warnings. Under Joko Widodo, Cabinet Secretariat staff prepared agendas and briefs, political appointees shaped priorities, and trusted aides aggregated views, with cabinet debate used to test options and detect risks. Prabowo relies on palace loyalists who control access, while senior advisers work outside formal structures. Ministers follow instructions and avoid bad news, so key signals stall. Missteps included the February 2025 LPG retail change, August 2025 protest escalation after Affan Kurniawan’s death, and late November 2025 Sumatra floods. Stronger coordination, dissent channels, and a revived Executive Office could improve monitoring. Jefferson Ng, East Asia Forum, January 13
Seats without Sway: Women in Indonesia’s Parliament. Indonesia’s House of Representatives has 22% women members, the highest share since the 30% candidate quota began in 2004. Law No. 7/2017 requires party lists in each district to include at least 30% women, but the 2024 candidate list met the threshold across all districts for the Prosperous Justice Party while other parties fell short. Party norms steer women MPs toward commissions on welfare, education, health, and religion, while defense, security, intelligence, and energy remain male-led. Women hold 18 of 104 leadership posts across 20 parliamentary bodies, and six of 13 commissions lack a woman leader. A Constitutional Court ruling in October 2025 mandates 30% women leaders across these bodies, but parties lack rules and pipelines to fill posts. Kamilatul Farikhah, FULCRUM, January 13
South Asia
India is writing the opening chapter of its semiconductor story. India aims to build a domestic semiconductor base as the market heads from $52 billion in 2024 to $103.4 billion by 2030. Construction at Dholera in Gujarat supports plans for a first major fabrication plant, led by Tata Electronics with a $10 billion commitment. CG Semi, with Renesas Electronics and Stars Microelectronics, targets a capacity of 15 million units per day for automotive, defense, and industrial chips. The India Semiconductor Mission offers incentives that can cover 75% of project costs, tied to a binding technology partnership. Fabrication demands stable power, ultrapure water, and Class 1 cleanrooms that limit investor appetite. Policy places emphasis on assembly and test, chip design incentives, and training to close a projected skills shortfall by 2027. Aarthi Sivanandh, Nikkei Asia, January 13