Asia Daily: June 17, 2025
China
China's top legislature schedules session for late June. The Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress will convene its 16th session from June 24 to 27 in Beijing. Lawmakers are set to review draft amendments to laws on public security, competition, maritime issues, fisheries, civil aviation, and food safety. Additional agenda items include social assistance, medical insurance, public health emergencies, and ratification of an international mediation treaty. Global Times, June 17
China hints Fujian aircraft carrier may soon be commissioned. China’s most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, appears close to entering service following new satellite imagery and state media references to a “three-carrier era.” The Type 003 carrier features electromagnetic catapults and has completed eight sea trials. With a displacement over 80,000 tonnes, it is the largest conventionally powered warship globally. Full operational deployment is expected by year-end. Hayley Wong, South China Morning Post, June 17
Japan
Voter survey: 67% disapprove of Ishiba’s plan for cash payouts. A nationwide Asahi Shimbun survey found that 67% of voters disapprove of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s plan to provide 20,000 yen to residents to offset rising prices, while only 28% support it. Disapproval is strongest among younger voters. Though some support has grown among seniors, the Cabinet’s approval remains low at 32%. Rice price concerns persist despite recent government interventions. The Asahi Shimbun, June 16
Survey: CDP surpasses falling DPP as top opposition party. The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan overtook the Democratic Party for the People as the top opposition group, with public support for the DPP falling to 6% amid backlash over a controversial candidacy. The LDP led all parties with 23% support. A slim majority favored lowering the consumption tax, though concern remains over the fiscal impact. Ryuichi Yamashita and Hiroshi Kimishima, The Asahi Shimbun, June 16
South Korea
South Korea launches task force on U.S. trade negotiations. South Korea formed a task force to manage negotiations with the United States on tariffs and non-tariff trade issues across key sectors. Led by Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo, the group will engage government agencies and the private sector. President Lee Jae-myung, reversing earlier caution, agreed with President Trump to pursue a mutually acceptable deal after recent U.S. tariff measures hit Korean exports. Jack Kim and Jihoon Lee, Reuters, June 16
South Korea to introduce second extra budget for this year. South Korea will unveil a second supplementary budget on Thursday to support its economy amid U.S. tariffs and weak domestic demand. The plan includes expanded subsidies to ease food and fuel costs, tax breaks for cars and oil products, and import quota increases. President Lee Jae-myung supports fiscal expansion as growth forecasts drop to 0.8%. Jihoon Lee, Reuters, June 16
Lee stresses need to ensure Korea will not be in more 'disadvantageous' position than other countries in U.S. tariff talks. President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the importance of securing fair terms in U.S. tariff negotiations, stating South Korea must avoid being placed at a comparative disadvantage. En route to the G7 summit in Canada, he underscored the role of summit diplomacy in advancing economic interests and restoring global confidence in Korea’s leadership. Kim Eun-jung, Yonhap News Agency, June 16
North Korea
Police to send mobile units to border areas to curb anti-N. Korea leaflet campaigns. South Korea will deploy police mobile units and regional officers to prevent activists from launching anti-North Korea leaflets across the border. The move follows President Lee Jae-myung’s directive to deter such campaigns and uphold public safety amid rising tensions. The government is considering legal revisions, including to the Aviation Safety Act, to strengthen enforcement. Kim Soo-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, June 16
N. Korea orders anti-U.S. propaganda blitz targeting youth. North Korea has launched an intensified anti-American and anti-South Korean propaganda campaign targeting youth during its “anti-U.S. joint struggle month” from June 25 to July 27. Party officials were instructed to lead ideological training directly, using graphic imagery and cultural visits to stoke hostility. The campaign also aims to counter discontent linked to troop deployments in Russia and internal crackdowns. Jeong Seo-yeong, Daily NK, June 16
India
The defense industries of India and Cyprus to step up cooperation, Indian PM says. India and Cyprus will expand defense collaboration through joint efforts in cybersecurity, maritime operations, and counterterrorism information exchange, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced during a state visit to Nicosia. The two nations committed to increasing naval visits and joint training exercises. Menelaos Hadjicostis, Associated Press, June 16
Vietnam
President approves sweeping constitutional, administrative overhauls. Vietnam’s president promulgated legislative reforms eliminating district-level administrative units nationwide starting July 1, 2025, and restructuring governance into a two-tier model. The amended constitution strengthens the role of the Vietnam Fatherland Front and its five major mass organizations. The revised Law on Organisation of Local Government and changes to the Population Ordinance also took effect, supporting governance modernization and population policy reforms. Vietnam News, June 16
Cambodia
Cambodia threatens Thai fruits ban as border dispute tensions soar. Cambodia warned it will stop importing Thai fruits and vegetables if Thailand does not lift border restrictions imposed after a fatal clash that killed a Cambodian soldier in disputed territory. The standoff has included bans on Thai media and internet links. Cambodia has also taken the issue to the International Court of Justice. Sopheng Cheang and Jintamas Saksornchai, Associated Press, June 16
Cambodia’s lawsuit in border dispute with Thailand has reached the International Court of Justice. Cambodia formally submitted a letter to the International Court of Justice on June 16 requesting intervention in its ongoing border dispute with Thailand near the Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Toch, Ta Krabey temples, and the Mom Bei area. Prime Minister Hun Manet affirmed that Cambodia remains resolute in its efforts to protect national sovereignty and pursue legal resolution. Khmer Times, June 16
Philippines
Escudero refuses Marcos offer to intervene in Senate-House standoff on Sara impeach trial. Senate President Chiz Escudero rejected President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s offer to mediate the standoff between the Senate and the House over Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, emphasizing transparency and delineation of roles. Escudero insisted that all deliberations should occur in the impeachment court and communications be formal. Javier Joe Ismael, The Manila Times, June 16
Members of VP defense team bared. Vice President Sara Duterte’s legal team formally entered its appearance for her Senate impeachment trial, comprising lawyers from Fortun Narvasa & Salazar, including Philip Sigfrid Fortun and Gregorio Narvasa II. Senate President Chiz Escudero rejected calls for senators to inhibit themselves, emphasizing impartiality and procedural authority. Gabriel Pabico Lalu and Melvin Gascon, Philippine Daily Inquirer, June 17
Indonesia
Indonesia, Netherlands ink 18 MoUs worth 800 mln euros. Indonesia and the Netherlands signed 18 memorandums of understanding totaling nearly 800 million euros to enhance cooperation in infrastructure, health, education, and environmental sectors. Agreements include mutual recognition of seafarers’ certification, coastal protection projects, medical equipment procurement, and academic partnerships. ANTARA News, June 16
Taiwan
Taiwan’s ruling DPP slams former leader Ma Ying-jeou over Straits Forum comments. Former Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou faced backlash from the Democratic Progressive Party for supporting the 1992 consensus at the Straits Forum in Xiamen. Critics accused him of echoing Beijing’s agenda and undermining Taiwan’s sovereignty. The Mainland Affairs Council warned of Beijing’s “united front” tactics, while Ma’s foundation defended the trip as constitutional. Lawrence Chung, South China Morning Post, June 16
U.S. House delegation arrives in Taiwan. A U.S. congressional delegation led by Taiwan Caucus cochair Ami Bera arrived in Taiwan for a three-day visit, affirming bipartisan support for Taiwan. The group, composed entirely of Democratic representatives, met with President William Lai and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim to discuss defense, economic cooperation, and Taiwan’s goal to raise military spending to 3% of GDP. Taipei Times, June 16
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan threads diplomatic needle, gives both Russia and China nuclear deals. Kazakhstan awarded nuclear power contracts to both Russia’s Rosatom and China’s National Nuclear Corporation to avoid alienating either neighbor. Rosatom will build the planned plant at Lake Balkhash, while CNNC will construct a second facility at a yet-to-be-determined site. Officials emphasized technical criteria and export financing in their decision, positioning Kazakhstan as a strategic and neutral partner in regional nuclear development. Eurasianet, June 16
Kazakhstan, China deepen strategic partnership, sign 24 agreements. Kazakhstan and China signed 24 intergovernmental and interdepartmental agreements during President Xi Jinping’s state visit, strengthening cooperation in nuclear energy, trade, culture, digitalization, and more. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted CNNC as a strategic partner for future nuclear plants and reaffirmed bilateral trust and goodwill. Fatima Kemelova, The Astana Times, June 16
Uzbekistan
“People’s Control” system to be rolled out nationwide in Uzbekistan. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has ordered the nationwide implementation of the “Xalq nazorati” digital platform, following its success in Tashkent. Managed by the Accounts Chamber, the system enables citizens to report public infrastructure issues with visual evidence and track government responsiveness. Integrated with ministry systems, it will provide a unified platform for feedback, transparency, and local governance accountability. Uzbekistan Daily, June 16
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan’s foreign trade declines, exports drop by 8.2 percent. Kyrgyzstan’s foreign trade totaled $4.592 billion from January to April 2025, a 12.7% decrease year-on-year. Exports fell by 8.2% to $730.3 million, and imports dropped 12.3% to $3.862 billion. However, trade with Eurasian Economic Union members rose 3.8%, with exports up 1.7% and imports increasing 4.3%. The National Statistical Committee attributes the downturn to broader economic challenges. Aibek Sultanov, 24KG, June 16
Northeast Asia
How Some of China’s Top AI Thinkers Built Their Own AI Safety Institute. The formation of the China AI Safety and Development Association (CnAISDA) marks China’s strategic entry into global AI safety governance. Structured as a coalition of existing institutions rather than a new bureaucracy, CnAISDA serves as an international representative hub, elevating influential Chinese experts like Andrew Yao and Xue Lan, many with close government ties. Tsinghua University plays a pivotal role, showing its centrality in China's AI policy landscape. While lacking operational functions like testing AI models, CnAISDA reflects internal concern for frontier risks and offers a conduit for global cooperation. Its establishment was catalyzed by international engagements such as the Bletchley Park summit and the Paris AI Action Summit. However, ambiguity about its governmental affiliation and functional scope remains. This model demonstrates how international ideas on AI safety can permeate China’s system, offering a blueprint for informal global coordination. Scott Singer, Karson Elmgren, and Oliver Guest, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, June 16
The Clear Case for UK–China Climate Cooperation. The United Kingdom’s renewed climate diplomacy under Labour includes reengaging China on climate and energy policy, contrasting the prior Conservative approach. As China accounts for 30% of global emissions, UK contributions of emissions-reduction expertise could yield global impact. Both nations are aligned in climate goals, with China excelling in solar deployment and EV infrastructure, and the UK leading in offshore wind and carbon budgeting. Shared projects can extend to green finance and standards-setting. Yet, cooperation faces geopolitical friction, especially from a U.S. administration hostile to climate action and skeptical of China ties. The UK risks political backlash domestically and pressure from Washington to scale back Chinese cooperation. Despite these tensions, UK–China collaboration could provide a model for addressing climate change amidst broader political differences, focusing on pragmatic engagement over ideological confrontation. Chris Aylett, East Asia Forum, June 16
A Trump Card for China’s Media. The Trump administration’s recent domestic crackdowns have unexpectedly bolstered China’s long-standing propaganda claims about Western hypocrisy, giving Beijing rare factual ammunition. Chinese state media, including Xinhua, have portrayed U.S. actions as proof of America's authoritarianism, mirroring language used to suppress dissent within China. This reversal, where U.S. protesters are now cast sympathetically in Chinese media, contrasts sharply with past portrayals of Hong Kong activists as threats. Trump’s rhetoric and tactics inadvertently reinforce narratives that frame the West as chaotic and declining, while China represents stability and governance. This enhances China's soft power, a domain in which it has long struggled, and undermines Western media’s traditional credibility rooted in independence and criticism. As American press freedom faces internal challenges, China’s state-run outlets exploit these developments to legitimize their stance globally, marking a significant, if unintended, win for Beijing's narrative strategy. Alex Colville, China Media Project, June 16
Battle of the Batteries: Chinese EV Investments and the Issue of Local Content Requirements. Chinese electric vehicle (EV) and battery manufacturers are expanding into Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), particularly Hungary and Slovakia, aiming to supply European automakers. While this supports EU climate goals, concerns over environmental impact, resource constraints, and strategic dependence on China persist. The EU's counterstrategy includes subsidies, production support, and potentially local content requirements (LCRs), which mandate using domestically sourced materials and services. These protectionist tools aim to create a homegrown battery industry but could inadvertently increase EV costs and reduce competition. The EU faces a dilemma: balancing open investment with strategic autonomy. LCRs, though underdeveloped in the EU context, may be attached to incentives like Innovation Fund subsidies. However, their efficacy depends on precise thresholds, viable enforcement, and securing Chinese cooperation, despite reluctance toward joint ventures. In the long term, as EU innovation progresses and LCRs tighten, Chinese battery factories may change from strategic assets to liabilities. Ágnes Szunomár, China Observers, June 17
As Israel Strikes Iran, China’s Diplomatic Leverage Wanes. Israel's precision strikes on Iran's nuclear and military infrastructure, triggered by Tehran's noncompliance with U.S. ultimatums, have destabilized the Middle East and tested China's diplomatic capacity. Despite its economic entrenchment in the region and past peace-brokering efforts, Beijing is now sidelined. Both Israeli and Iranian publics are increasingly skeptical of China’s role, perceiving its response as passive. With key Iranian military leaders killed and retaliatory missile attacks on Tel Aviv underway, China's calls for de-escalation carry limited influence. Strategic repercussions include delays in high-level visits, potential disruptions to Belt and Road Initiative projects, and energy insecurity. Beijing’s long-held development-focused approach to regional diplomacy is proving insufficient amid intensifying military conflict. China’s ambition to be seen as a viable diplomatic alternative to Western powers, especially in the Global South, risks being undercut by its inability to influence events or provide security assurances in a rapidly escalating conflict. Alessandro Arduino, ThinkChina, June 16
Southeast Asia
Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone Borders on Success. Launched in January 2025, the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ) aims to deepen Malaysia–Singapore economic ties through cross-border investment, integrated supply chains, and sectoral synergies. Encompassing 3500 square kilometers and nine flagship zones, it targets 50 projects within five years and 100 by 2035, generating 20,000 skilled jobs. Incentives include long-term tax relief for targeted industries and a 15% income tax rate for knowledge workers. Complementary strengths, Singapore's high-tech and financial sectors and Johor’s manufacturing base, facilitate a collaborative ecosystem, improved by streamlined customs and joint infrastructure. Strategic coordination, effective infrastructure, and workforce mobility remain crucial, though investor caution persists due to prior project delays and governance concerns. While political risks and global trade uncertainties linger, structured milestones and a talent-focused agenda position the SEZ for long-term impact. Realizing its potential hinges on transparent policies, efficient execution, and commitment to a dual-nation economic vision. Selena Ling, East Asia Forum, June 17
US–China Negotiations in London Signal a Tough Road Ahead for Southeast Asia. Recent US–China trade talks in London, while publicly framed as positive, show the challenges Southeast Asian nations face in their own tariff negotiations with the Trump administration. The U.S. places high value on personal rapport between leaders, a dynamic present between Trump and Xi, but lacking with Southeast Asian counterparts. This absence weakens regional leverage during disputes. Furthermore, Trump’s transactional approach uses power imbalances, and Southeast Asia lacks the coercive tools to pressure the U.S. effectively. While countries like Malaysia and Vietnam offer minor incentives, they lack the strategic weight China wields through critical exports. Compounding this, the U.S. administration is overwhelmed, with limited bandwidth to manage its overambitious slate of 90 trade deals in 90 days. As high-profile partners consume U.S. attention, Southeast Asian nations risk exclusion, potentially facing pre-set tariffs without negotiated relief. These realities suggest a difficult path forward despite good-faith regional efforts. Stephen Olson, FULCRUM, June 16