Asia Daily: January 22, 2026

China

Chinese goods pour into Africa, widening trade gap to record $102 billion amid U.S. pressure. China expanded exports to Africa by 25.8% in 2025, pushing its trade surplus with the continent up 64.5% to a record $102 billion, Chinese customs data showed. Exports surged to $225 billion, far outpacing African shipments to China, as Beijing sought alternative markets amid escalating U.S. tariff pressure. Analysts said demand for manufactured goods and capital equipment drove the increase. Jevans Nyabiage, South China Morning Post, January 21

Trump’s decision to sell AI chips to China under pressure as House bill against deal advances. A bipartisan push in the U.S. House moved closer to curbing President Donald Trump’s authority to approve sales of advanced AI chips to China. Lawmakers advanced legislation giving Congress greater oversight of export licences, challenging the White House and Nvidia despite opposition from Trump allies. Khushboo Razdan, South China Morning Post, January 21

China’s top political adviser stresses strong start to new five-year plan. Wang Huning called for high-quality policy advice and closer alignment with party economic priorities to ensure a solid launch of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan from 2026 to 2030. He urged political advisers to study central directives and focus research on major economic and social challenges. Officials and experts discussed innovation, consumption, investment and building a modern industrial system. China Daily, January 21

Japan

Assassin of Japan’s former PM Abe sentenced to life in prison. A Japanese court sentenced Tetsuya Yamagami to life in prison for the 2022 killing of former prime minister Shinzo Abe during an election campaign speech in Nara. Yamagami admitted the shooting and said it stemmed from a grudge against the Unification Church, citing his mother’s donations and Abe’s perceived links to the group. Prosecutors sought a life term, calling the crime unprecedented, while the defense had argued for a shorter sentence. Kiyoshi Takenaka and Fred Mery, Reuters, January 21

Unveiling manifesto, JIP touts itself as Takaichi administration’s accelerator. Japan Innovation Party leaders said the junior coalition partner will push Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s agenda rather than restrain it ahead of the Feb. 8 Lower House election. The manifesto aligns closely with the ruling camp on fiscal reform, deregulation and governance efficiency. Party leaders said voters should back JIP to keep policy momentum from stalling inside the Liberal Democratic Party. Eric Johnston, The Japan Times, January 21

Sanseito to fight LDP members who oppose Takaichi policies. Japan’s Sanseito said it will run candidates against Liberal Democratic Party lawmakers who resist Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s conservative agenda. The party aims to expand its base by backing stricter immigration rules and tax cuts in the Feb. 8 election. Leader Sohei Kamiya said electoral gains would help force the ruling party to fully implement Takaichi’s policies. Amane Sugawara, The Asahi Shimbun, January 21

CDP, Komeito to share leadership posts in new centrist party. Japan’s Constitutional Democratic Party and Komeito agreed to split senior posts equally in their newly formed Centrist Reform Alliance despite large differences in seat numbers. The arrangement includes co-leaders and shared executive roles to avoid backlash during the election campaign. The alliance shifted policy positions on security and nuclear power to accommodate both sides. The Asahi Shimbun, January 21

South Korea

Former South Korean PM Han jailed for 23 years in martial law case. A South Korean court sentenced former prime minister Han Duck-soo to 23 years in prison for his role in what judges described as a key act of insurrection linked to ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol’s 2024 martial law declaration. The sentence exceeded the 15 years sought by prosecutors and marked the first conviction of a former cabinet minister tied directly to the episode. Heejin Kim and Joyce Lee, Reuters, January 21

South Korea prosecutor appeals court ruling on ex-President Yoon’s obstruction charges. South Korea’s special prosecution team appealed a court ruling that sentenced former president Yoon Suk Yeol to five years in prison for obstructing attempts to arrest him after his failed bid to impose martial law. Prosecutors said the sentence was too lenient, given the gravity of undermining law enforcement authority. Yoon could face up to 10 years in prison if the appeal succeeds. Heejin Kim, Reuters, January 22

PM departs for U.S. to meet with senior officials, possibly Vance. Prime Minister Kim Min-seok left for Washington on his first overseas trip since taking office, aiming to address trade and tariff issues with senior U.S. officials. His office said meetings may include Vice President J.D. Vance during the five-day visit to Washington and New York. Talks are expected to focus on tariffs, investment commitments, and strains facing South Korean chipmakers. Lee Haye-ah, Yonhap News Agency, January 22

Ruling party proposes merger with minor Rebuilding Korea Party ahead of local elections. South Korea’s ruling Democratic Party proposed merging with the minor Rebuilding Korea Party to broaden its liberal base before June local elections. Party leader Jung Chung-rae urged swift talks, citing shared opposition to the former Yoon administration and support for President Lee Jae Myung. Rebuilding Korea Party leader Cho Kuk said he would consult party members before responding. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, January 22

Vietnam

Vietnam’s Lam edges closer to new leadership term after decisive congress cut short. Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party moved to wrap up its five-yearly congress early, signalling broad consensus to reappoint current leader To Lam as general secretary. Delegates began voting as the shortened schedule suggested no serious divisions over top leadership posts. The congress is expected to confirm Lam’s continued dominance as the party sets political and economic priorities. Francesco Guarascio, Phuong Nguyen, and Khanh Vu, Reuters, January 22

Press release on second working day of 14th National Party Congress. Vietnam’s 14th National Party Congress continued with a full day of discussions on draft documents, chaired in separate sessions by State President Luong Cuong and Politburo Standing member Tran Cam Tu. Thirty delegates from central agencies, ministries, local party committees and mass organisations presented views in what organisers described as a candid and democratic atmosphere. Vietnam News, January 22

Thailand

Surging in polls, Thailand’s reformist opposition tests new election playbook. Thailand’s People’s Party has emerged as the frontrunner ahead of the Feb. 8 election as it shifts strategy to broaden appeal after past confrontations with the establishment. The party has softened positions on the monarchy and military while showcasing technocrats as potential cabinet members. Leaders say the recalibration aims to win undecided voters, though legal risks and nationalist sentiment remain challenges. Panu Wongcha-Um and Panarat Thepgumpanat, Reuters, January 21

35 parties plan meet to discuss charter referendum. Representatives from 35 Thai political parties will gather next Tuesday to present their positions on the proposed constitutional referendum, the Election Commission said. Of the parties registered, 18 support the referendum, 14 oppose it and three hold alternative views, with speaking slots to be determined by a draw if needed. The EC said the forum aims to structure public debate ahead of the Feb. 8 nationwide vote. Chairith Yonpiam, Bangkok Post, January 22

Laos

Laos advises citizens to avoid US visa applications amid temporary suspension. Laos’ foreign ministry urged citizens to temporarily refrain from applying for US visas after Washington suspended visa issuance for citizens of 75 countries, including Laos. The ministry warned that applications filed during the suspension will not be processed and fees may still be charged. Diplomatic and official passport holders traveling on official duties are exempt. The Laotian Times, January 21

Laos on track to graduate from LDC status this year, UN confirms. The United Nations confirmed that Laos is recommended to graduate from least developed country status in 2026, alongside Bangladesh and Nepal. Approval by ECOSOC and the UN General Assembly would mark a milestone as Laos targets average annual growth of at least 6% from 2026 to 2030. Authorities said extended transition arrangements through 2029 will help manage reduced aid and support. Khonesavanh Latsaphao, Vientiane Times, January 22

Cambodia

Trump invites Hun Manet to join proposed ‘Board of Peace’ on Middle East plan. U.S. President Donald Trump formally invited Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet to become a founding member of a proposed international body aimed at advancing peace efforts in the Middle East. The invitation outlines a new “Board of Peace” under Trump’s Gaza conflict plan, endorsed by a UN Security Council resolution, with Trump set to serve as chair. Cambodian officials have not said whether Phnom Penh will accept the offer or seek further clarification. Khmer Times, January 21

Philippines

Second impeach rap filed vs Marcos. A second impeachment complaint was filed against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the House of Representatives, accusing him of betrayal of public trust for not vetoing unprogrammed appropriations in the 2026 national budget. The complaint was lodged by Bayan chair Renato Reyes and former lawmaker France Castro and endorsed by members of the Makabayan bloc. It follows an earlier impeachment filing earlier in the week, increasing political pressure on the administration. Red Mendoza, The Manila Times, January 22

Marcos hospitalized due to ‘discomfort,’ under observation – Palace. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was placed under overnight medical observation after experiencing discomfort, Malacañang said. Doctors advised rest and monitoring, and officials said his condition remained stable and not serious. Marcos later returned to the Palace and continued performing official duties, though he skipped a public awards ceremony earlier in the day. Kristina Maralit, The Manila Times, January 22

Malaysia

Malaysia to charge two top military officers over alleged corruption. Malaysia’s anti-graft agency said it will charge two senior military officers over alleged money laundering, abuse of power and graft linked to procurement deals. Former army chief Muhammad Hafizuddiean Jantan and ex–armed forces chief Mohd Nizam Jaafar are accused of financial crimes, with Hafizuddiean’s wife also facing charges. The government has frozen related procurement decisions pending further review. Rozanna Latiff and Danial Azhar, Reuters, January 21

Singapore

Singapore’s opposition will not nominate replacement for Leader of the Opposition role. Singapore’s Workers’ Party said it will not name a new Leader of the Opposition after Prime Minister Lawrence Wong removed Pritam Singh following his conviction for lying to parliament. The party said the role should belong to the leader of the largest opposition party, not be appointed by the government. The decision leaves the post vacant despite requests from the prime minister. Jun Yuan Yong and Xinghui Kok, Reuters, January 21

LO office to remain vacant till WP is ready to nominate someone to take on the responsibility: PMO. Singapore’s Prime Minister’s Office said the Leader of the Opposition post will remain vacant after the Workers’ Party declined to nominate a replacement following Pritam Singh’s removal. The government accepted WP’s position that the role should be held by the leader of the largest opposition party and noted the current situation is exceptional due to Singh’s convictions for lying to Parliament. Ng Wei Kai, The Straits Times, January 21

Taiwan

U.S. House committee approves US$1.15 billion for Taiwan defense. A U.S. House of Representatives committee approved a 2026 spending bill that includes US$1.15 billion to support security cooperation with Taiwan. The funding allocates US$1 billion for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative and US$150 million for replacing defense articles and reimbursing services. Final release depends on passage of the broader appropriations bill amid efforts to avoid another government shutdown. Chung Yu-cheng and Chris Wang, Focus Taiwan, January 21

U.S. Senate committee to review 4 Taiwan-related bills next week. The U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee is set to review four Taiwan-related bills covering sovereignty symbols, energy security, undersea cable protection and support for Taiwan’s partners. The measures include proposals to allow Taiwanese officials to display national symbols in the U.S. and to bolster Taiwan’s energy resilience and communications security. All four bills would still require full congressional approval and presidential signature to take effect. Chung Yu-chen and James Thompson, Focus Taiwan, January 21

Kazakhstan

Tokayev unveils major political reforms as Kazakhstan moves to replace the National Kurultai. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced plans to dismantle the National Kurultai and Assembly of the People, replacing them with new state-society mechanisms and reviving a vice presidency. The reforms aim to streamline governance, expand parliamentary oversight and clarify succession rules, with early elections required if a president leaves office. Andrei Matveev, The Times of Central Asia, January 21

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan signals possible retaliation over increased trade costs in Tajikistan. Uzbekistan warned it may impose reciprocal measures if Tajikistan does not ease customs practices that officials say are inflating costs for Uzbek exporters by about 15%. Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev cited a “reserve” clearance procedure and extra charges that have pushed logistics costs sharply higher, hurting competitiveness in construction materials. Sadokat Jalolova, The Times of Central Asia, January 21

Tajikistan

Tajikistan increases car imports from Georgia by 568%. Tajikistan surged into Georgia’s top 10 export markets in 2025 as car reexports jumped 568% year on year, driving total Georgian exports to Tajikistan up 431% to $179 million. Passenger cars accounted for 90% of shipments, with 7,592 vehicles sold for $162.3 million after years of modest trade. Analysts linked the spike to rerouted regional trade flows since the Ukraine war, while non-car exports and Tajik shipments to Georgia remained marginal. Asia-Plus, January 22

East Asia

What Is China’s Ultimate Foreign-Policy Goal?. China’s export controls on rare earth metals sparked disagreement in the United States. Some observers read the move as a bid for global dominance and leverage over Western states. Others view it as a defensive response to slowing growth, trade threats, rising unemployment among young people, and the search for bargaining power against the United States and allies. The dispute reflects a wider debate about China’s ambitions and the direction of U.S. policy. Many U.S. politicians and pundits state that Beijing seeks global hegemony and aims to replace the United States as the central power that sets international rules. Jeremy S. Friedman, Foreign Policy, January 21

South Korea Can Stand Up to China. President Lee Jae-myung pursued warmer ties with Xi Jinping through summits and agreements, while Seoul and Washington reached a deal on nuclear-powered submarines that can track North Korean and Chinese vessels. Beijing has used trade punishment against South Korea before, including THAAD-related sanctions, urea export curbs, and measures tied to shipbuilding cooperation with the United States. China may respond through pressure on firms, tourism, or rare earth supplies. Seoul should join Japan, the United States, Australia, and G-7 partners in a pact that treats coercion against one as coercion against all and triggers retaliation. China depends on key imports from these states, giving leverage. Victor Cha, Foreign Affairs, January 21

The Impact of the US National Security Strategy’s Blind Spot on North Korea. The new US National Security Strategy centers China and drops reference to North Korean denuclearization, moving deterrence and crisis management burdens toward Seoul. Pyongyang gains room to press South Korea through gray-zone actions near the Northern Limit Line and the Korea Air Defense Identification Zone, backed by nuclear coercion and plans to codify a “two hostile states” doctrine. South Korea has raised defense spending, expanded advanced strike and maritime programs, and opened debate on nuclear options as confidence in extended deterrence weakens. Burden shifting without clear guardrails fuels arms competition and raises escalation risk. Washington needs steady senior messaging, allied coordination, and clear red lines in disputed air and sea zones. Sangsoo Lee, 38 North, January 21

Southeast Asia

Military Elections Will Not Resolve Myanmar’s Deeper Problems. Myanmar’s junta ran staged elections in three phases in January, with voting limited to areas under military control and the National League for Democracy barred. The Union Solidarity and Development Party won most seats in the first two rounds, while turnout sat at 52 percent and voters reported fear and distrust. The military seized power in February 2021 after the NLD’s 2020 landslide, using the 2008 Constitution to keep a parliamentary quota and control core ministries. China praised the first phase, while the United Kingdom, the European Union, Canada, and the UN raised concerns. Post-election outcomes hinge on Min Aung Hlaing’s role and resistance capacity amid a damaged economy and ongoing war. Hunter Marston, Asia Society, January 21

Thai-Cambodian Dispute: Differing Configurations of Nationalism and Legitimacy. Cambodia and Thailand reaffirmed a second ceasefire on December 27, 2025, yet clashes resumed and border relations remained fragile. Thailand launched airstrikes in Cambodia on December 8 after two Thai soldiers were injured by a landmine that Thai authorities said violated the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord. Thai officials spoke of defending sovereignty and degrading Cambodian forces, drawing on narratives of “lost territories” tied to the 1904-1907 Franco-Siamese Treaties. The crisis intersected with Thai domestic instability, including Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s decision to dissolve parliament and call a February 2026 election. Cambodia’s public discourse stressed peace and restraint rooted in post-Khmer Rouge trauma, while the CPP uses peace as regime legitimacy and Hun Sen retains influence in crisis management. Soksamphoas Im, FULCRUM, January 21

South Asia

The remarkable recovery of Narendra Modi. Narendra Modi lost his parliamentary majority in the 2024 election and depended on regional allies with limited interest in reform. The BJP won a string of state elections, and the opposition weakened. The government announced simplification of goods and services taxes, overhauled labour laws, deregulated parts of the nuclear industry, promoted electronics manufacturing, and pursued trade deals. Modi, age 75, is expected to seek another term in 2029 and aims to set a record for time in office by 2031. He links legacy to Hindu pride, while policy focus changes toward growth and a developed country target for 2047. The BJP addressed inflation and food supply after voter backlash over price rises. The Economist, January 21

Oceania

Papua New Guinea’s democracy at 50. Papua New Guinea marked 50 years of independence in 2025 and kept an unbroken record of democratic government despite early predictions of collapse. After failed no-confidence moves against Prime Minister James Marape, Parliament passed a constitutional amendment that created an 18-month grace period after a failed motion, and the Supreme Court rejected an opposition bid to stop the vote. Bougainville talks stayed unresolved after the Melanesia Agreement set a path for a Joint Consultation Report before mid 2027. A Mutual Defence Treaty with Australia, a US defence cooperation agreement, and a UK shiprider deal expanded security ties, while domestic violence and disorder remained key concerns. Ronald J. May, East Asia Forum, January 21

Bleak economic growth and political instability plagued Solomon Islands in 2025. The Solomon Islands hosted the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara in September 2025 and avoided dialogue partner attendance, amid questions over Taiwan after the 2019 switch to Beijing. China signaled influence through high-profile support for the event, while leaders launched the Pacific Resilience Facility for climate and disaster action. Security debate stayed intense as police cooperation with China expanded, an Australia policing deal stalled, and discussion grew over a future defence force. Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele faced a no-confidence push after MP defections, and election planning suffered after a fire destroyed electoral commission offices. Cost-of-living pressures rose as growth prospects stayed weak. Kerryn Baker, East Asia Forum, January 21

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