Asia Daily: March 31, 2025
China
China discovers major oilfield in South China Sea. The China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) announced the discovery of the Huizhou 19-6 oilfield in the eastern South China Sea, with proven reserves exceeding 100 million tonnes. Located 170 km from Shenzhen, the field is China’s first large-scale clastic oilfield found in deep to ultra-deep layers. Test drilling produced 413 barrels of oil and 68,000 cubic meters of gas per day. CNOOC sees deep-sea reserves as key to future output. Xinhua, March 31
China woos the neighbours with Xi Jinping said to be planning 3-country tour in April. President Xi Jinping is expected to visit Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia in mid-April, marking his first foreign tour of 2025 and part of China’s push to deepen ties in Southeast Asia amid regional concerns over U.S. policy under Trump. The trip aims to strengthen economic and political relations, with stops reflecting strategic priorities in trade, diplomacy, and South China Sea dynamics. Dewey Sim, South China Morning Post, March 31
Nuclear risk from military AI prompts calls for U.S., China and others to seek agreement. Experts are urging China, the U.S., and other nuclear powers to cooperate on regulating military AI to prevent nuclear escalation. Analysts warn that AI integration in command, intelligence, and delivery systems increases the risk of miscalculation. While China promotes self-restraint and the U.S. has acknowledged AI’s risks, no global consensus exists. A 2023 Xi-Biden summit included a commitment to retain human control over nuclear use. Sylvie Zhuang, South China Morning Post, March 30
Japan
Hegseth joins WWII memorial service on his first trip to Japan. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attended a memorial on Iwo Jima honoring those killed in the 1945 battle, highlighting U.S.-Japan friendship. He praised shared values and emphasized the alliance’s role in Indo-Pacific peace. Joined by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and veterans, Hegseth described the site as sacred. The visit came amid rising tensions with China and marks Hegseth’s first trip to Japan as defense chief. Mari Yamaguchi, AP News, March 29
Tokyo stocks tumble in morning on U.S. tariff concern. Tokyo’s Nikkei index fell over 4% Monday morning, dropping to its lowest level since September amid fears that U.S. auto tariffs will harm Japan’s economy. The Nikkei lost 1,428.81 points, or 3.85%, to 35,691.52, while the Topix fell 3.26%. The yen strengthened as investors sought safe-haven assets. Analysts said the market had not fully priced in Trump’s tariff move, which will impose 25% duties on all car imports. Kyodo News, March 31
Interparty talks sought over Japan corporate donation rules. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party, Komeito, and the Democratic Party for the People urged the Constitutional Democratic Party and other opposition groups to join discussions on reforming corporate political donations. They proposed holding talks outside regular parliamentary sessions, aiming for a resolution by April. Although both sides had initially agreed to decide by March’s end, reaching that deadline now appears unlikely. The Japan Times, March 30
South Korea
Ruling party urges Constitutional Court to make swift ruling on Yoon’s impeachment. The ruling People Power Party called on the Constitutional Court to issue a prompt verdict in President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment case, 107 days after the motion passed. Interim leader Kwon Young-se warned against further delay, with two judges’ terms expiring April 18. Yoon was impeached for attempting to impose martial law. The court needs at least six of eight current justices to uphold the decision. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, March 31
Rival parties accuse each other of insurrection as political crisis drags on. South Korea’s ruling and opposition blocs traded insurrection accusations as the Democratic Party warned acting President Han Duck-soo to appoint Constitutional Court nominee Ma Eun-hyeok or face another impeachment. The party alleges Han aims to sway the court’s makeup to favor President Yoon Suk Yeol, whose impeachment is under review. The ruling party, in turn, vowed legal action against 71 opposition lawmakers for conspiracy. Political tensions remain high with two court seats set to open in April. Son Ji-hyoung, The Korea Herald, March 30
Lee Jae-myung strengthens poll lead after acquittal. Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung widened his lead in a Realmeter presidential poll after his acquittal on election law violations. Lee gained 2.6 points from earlier in March, reaching 49.5% support. Labor Minister Kim Moon-soo, the top People Power Party contender, trailed at 16.3%. Other PPP figures followed with single-digit support. Lee received 90.8% backing among Democratic Party supporters. Hwang Joo-young, The Korea Herald, March 31
North Korea
N. Korea holds 1st large-scale gathering of instructors for children’s union. North Korea held its first nationwide meeting of instructors for the Red Necktie children’s union, urging them to instill loyalty to leader Kim Jong-un. The Pyongyang event, held at Kim’s instruction, emphasized the role of instructors as political guides nurturing “youth revolutionaries and patriots.” Topics included educational improvements and project shortcomings. The union, founded in 1946, includes about 3 million members aged 7 to 16. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, March 31
N. Korean officials turn to Bitcoin to shield assets from regime scrutiny. North Korean trade officials in China are increasingly investing in Bitcoin to conceal personal assets from state surveillance. Using VPN-equipped phones and Chinese intermediaries, some officials hold over $80,000 in cryptocurrency, accumulated through trade deals involving millions in exports and imports. Bitcoin offers a covert alternative to Chinese bank accounts or cash, which are more easily tracked and seized by North Korean authorities. Seulkee Jang, Daily NK, March 31
Thailand
Paetongtarn leads Natthaphong for PM but People’s Party crushes Pheu Thai: poll. A Nida Poll shows Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the top choice for premier with 30.90% support, ahead of opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut at 22.90%. However, the People’s Party dominates party preference with 37.10%, surpassing Pheu Thai’s 28.05%. Other figures, including Pirapan Salirathavibhaga and Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, trailed with single-digit support. The poll surveyed 2,000 adults nationwide from March 24–27. Bangkok Post, March 30
Early House debate for casinos bill. Parliament is expected to debate Thailand’s entertainment complex bill by April 9, according to chief government whip Wisut Chainarun. The cabinet approved the bill on March 27. The proposed law allocates only 10% of space to casinos, with the rest designated for venues like concert halls and water parks. Supporters say it could boost tourism by 5–10%, while critics, including activist Jatuporn Prompan, warn of social harm linked to gambling. Bangkok Post, March 31
Vietnam
Belgian King and Queen arrive in Hanoi, beginning state visit to Vietnam. King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium began a five-day state visit to Vietnam, marking the first royal visit since diplomatic ties were established in 1973. The trip aims to deepen political trust and expand cooperation in trade, agriculture, science, and education. With $4.45 billion in bilateral trade and 100 Belgian investment projects, the visit highlights Vietnam’s role as a key ASEAN partner amid global uncertainties. Vietnam News, March 31
Myanmar
Myanmar junta blocks quake coverage as death toll jumps to 1,700. The Myanmar junta has barred international journalists from entering earthquake-hit areas following the 7.7-magnitude quake on March 28, creating an information blackout. The disaster struck Mandalay, Naypyitaw, Sagaing Region, and southern Shan State, with the regime reporting 1,700 dead, over 3,400 injured, and 300 missing. Independent sources believe the real toll may be far higher. Media suppression and blocked aid access have raised concerns over the junta’s response. Myanmar Now, March 31
Philippines
More names surface as 'beneficiaries' of Sara's confidential funds — House leader. Additional fictitious names have been identified among the reported recipients of Vice President Sara Duterte’s confidential funds, according to House Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega. Names such as Beverly Claire Pampano and Ralph Josh Bacon were submitted to the Commission on Audit but have no records with the Philippine Statistics Authority. Duterte, who is being impeached over alleged fund misuse, previously claimed unawareness of the submitted names. Reina C. Tolentino, The Manila Times, March 31
After Duterte’s arrest, Philippine drug war victims face abuse and online falsehoods. Victims and advocates connected to former president Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war are facing a surge of online harassment following his March 11 arrest by the International Criminal Court. False claims on social media depict the arrest as “kidnapping,” while Duterte supporters have flooded platforms with coordinated attacks, fabricated quote cards, and misleading videos. Analysts say the campaign mirrors Duterte’s 2016 disinformation strategy. Karen Lema and Poppy McPherson, Reuters, March 31
Singapore
PAP’s slate of new faces shapes up with 30 likely names; party could field younger group, more women. The People’s Action Party is expected to field about 30 first-time candidates in Singapore’s upcoming general election, with nearly 40 percent likely to be women and an average age of 40.5. The slate includes senior civil servants, corporate executives, and grassroots leaders. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized leadership renewal and gender diversity as priorities, aiming to attract candidates who can serve long political careers. Ng Wei Kai and Goh Yan Han, The Straits Times, March 31
Uzbekistan
Shavkat Mirziyoyev to visit Khujand on a working trip. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev will travel to Khujand on March 31 at the invitation of Tajik President Emomali Rahmon. He will participate in a trilateral summit with the leaders of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, alongside bilateral talks. The discussions will focus on deepening strategic partnerships and cooperation in trade, culture, and humanitarian affairs. The visit is expected to conclude with the signing of a treaty on the junction point of the three countries’ borders. Uzbekistan Daily, March 30
China to finance Mulalak hydropower plant construction in Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan has approved the construction of the Mulalak Hydropower Plant on the Pskom River, with financing secured from a Chinese bank. Deputy Chairman Farrukh Nurullaev confirmed that contractor selection is pending, though Chinese lenders typically require tenders limited to Chinese firms. The project follows government and expert approvals, with implementation set to begin. Kun Uz, March 29
Northeast Asia
Yoon Suk Yeol’s Impeachment Trial: A Legal Timeline. South Korea’s National Assembly voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol on December 14, 2024, following his declaration of martial law earlier that month. The impeachment passed with 204 votes, surpassing the 200-vote threshold, and Yoon’s term was suspended pending trial. The Constitutional Court initiated proceedings on December 16, selecting Justice Cheong Hyungsik as lead justice. Hearings for new justices nominated by both the Democratic Party (DP) and People Power Party (PPP) were boycotted by PPP lawmakers, who questioned Acting President Han Duck-soo’s authority to make appointments. Despite the National Assembly approving the nominations on December 26, Han refused to appoint the justices, prompting DP lawmakers to file an unprecedented motion to impeach the acting president. Joo Young Kim, Korea Economic Institute of America, March 29
PRC Deploys DeepSeek Across Local Governments. China has rapidly deployed its domestic AI model, DeepSeek, across at least 72 local governments, positioning it as a central tool in the country’s digital governance ambitions. Developed by a homegrown company, DeepSeek's R1 reasoning model has gained traction in both public and private sectors since its January launch. Local governments in cities like Shenzhen and Beijing are pioneering its application, while the central government signals increasing AI prioritization through policies like the “AI+ initiative” outlined at the 2025 Two Sessions. However, adoption faces bottlenecks due to limited computing infrastructure and energy resources in many regions. Lea Thome, Jamestown Foundation, March 28
Southeast Asia
In the aftermath of Myanmar’s earthquake, reports emerge of the junta attacking its own people. A 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, with its epicenter in the Sagaing Region, a key area of resistance against the military junta. Over 1,600 deaths have been reported, with the toll expected to rise as communications remain down and access to rural regions is blocked. Despite the disaster, the military has reportedly continued airstrikes in Shan, Rakhine, Magway, Naung Cho, and Kachin, while enforcing curfews that hinder rescue efforts and arresting able-bodied men for forced conscription. Humanitarian aid from neighboring countries has arrived in Naypyidaw and Yangon, but its reach remains uncertain. Grassroots networks continue to lead relief efforts, filling the void left by a lack of meaningful international assistance. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing’s call for global aid is widely viewed as insincere, especially as the military obstructs relief operations and maintains a pattern of human rights violations, including indiscriminate violence and restrictions on movement. Survivors in heavily impacted areas like the Sagaing Hills are still awaiting aid and news, as the junta prioritizes control over compassion. Manny Maung, Lowy Institute, March 29
Glowing gains for Brunei despite diversification growing pains. Brunei’s economy grew by 4.2% in 2024 and is projected to maintain this momentum in 2025, supported by a resurgence in the oil and gas (O&G) sector and expansion in non-O&G areas like tourism, transport, and business services. While fiscal improvements and a reduced deficit show this growth, Brunei remains heavily reliant on O&G, with downstream activities and petrochemical exports gaining prominence. Strategic diversification—focusing on sectors with high revealed comparative advantage such as chemicals, food, and machinery—is essential for long-term resilience. Notable export progress includes a change from crude fuels to chemical products like nitrogenous fertilizers and halogenated hydrocarbons. Future growth depends on policy reforms targeting labor skills, digital transformation, human capital development, and renewable energy investments. While Brunei has laid the foundation for economic transformation through downstream expansion and foreign investment attraction, it must strengthen regulatory frameworks and trade facilitation to sustain and broaden its diversification trajectory. The continued success of this shift hinges on prioritizing high-potential sectors, digital infrastructure, and environmental transition strategies to ensure stable, long-term economic development. Ly Slesman and Chang-Yau Hoon, East Asia Forum, March 29
Turkiye–Indonesia defence industry cooperation takes off. On February 12, 2025, Turkiye and Indonesia signed a landmark agreement enabling joint production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) through a partnership between Baykar and Indonesia’s Republikorp. This collaboration advances Indonesia’s military modernization by promoting technology transfer and reducing reliance on Western arms, in line with its 2012 defense law. Baykar will provide manufacturing expertise and training, while Republikorp will manage regulatory and infrastructure development. The drones are expected to strengthen Indonesia’s maritime surveillance and security across its extensive archipelagic territory. While interoperability challenges remain due to Indonesia’s diverse military equipment sources, the partnership increases Turkiye’s role as an emerging global defense exporter and a growing presence in Southeast Asia’s arms market. Previous joint projects, including the Kaplan MT tank and fast attack craft, demonstrate the deepening defense ties between the two nations. For Indonesia, the deal supports strategic autonomy and improves maritime defense capabilities. For Turkiye, it opens opportunities to compete with traditional suppliers like Russia and the United States, especially amid changing global defense dynamics. The agreement marks a step in bilateral relations, with the potential to influence regional defense alignments in the years ahead. Awais Hanif, East Asia Forum, March 29
Thailand’s Land Bridge: Navigating Geopolitical and Investor Concerns. Thailand's USD 36 billion land bridge project aims to link the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand via deep-sea ports and overland transport, offering an alternative to the Malacca Strait. Set for completion by 2039, it promises to boost GDP, generate 280,000 jobs, and position Thailand as a regional logistics hub. However, logistical inefficiencies, lack of environmental assessments, and strong local opposition raise serious concerns. Investor confidence remains limited, especially amid fierce competition from regional ports like Singapore and Port Klang. Thailand’s 300 billion baht infrastructure fund and upcoming Southern Economic Corridor bill seek to attract private capital, but geopolitical difficulties and transparency gaps could undermine project viability. Eugene Mark, Fulcrum, March 28
South Asia
Trump's 'Maximum Pressure' Iran Approach Is a Headache for India. The U.S. administration's intensified "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, including airstrikes against the Houthis and threats to revoke sanctions waivers for projects like India's Chabahar Port, poses significant challenges to India's regional trade and connectivity ambitions. These developments complicate India's efforts to balance its strategic partnerships and may hinder initiatives such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which relies on stable regional dynamics. The change in U.S. policy restricts New Delhi's flexibility in pursuing trade strategies without conflicting with Washington's agenda, potentially straining U.S.-India relations at a time when collaboration is crucial for countering China's influence. Seamus Duffy, The Diplomat, March 28
Pakistan Welcomes Starlink. But Can It Deliver on Its Promise? Pakistan granted a temporary No Objection Certificate to Starlink on March 21, 2025, allowing the satellite internet provider to begin operations aimed at bridging the digital divide in underserved regions. Starlink could offer transformative benefits in rural areas by enhancing connectivity for freelancers, small businesses, education, and healthcare. However, its high costs—around $120 per month plus $375 for equipment—place it far beyond the reach of most rural households. While mobile data remains the dominant and affordable option, Starlink’s impact depends on implementing inclusive solutions like community terminals and flexible pricing models. Zohaib Alta and Nimrah Javed, The Diplomat, March 29
Oceania
Yes, some of China’s educated youth just asserted sovereignty over Australia. Following unannounced Chinese naval exercises in the Tasman Sea, nationalist discourse surged on Chinese platforms like Zhihu, with some educated users asserting sovereignty over Australia. Unlike traditional territorial claims tied to historical proximity, this rhetoric draws on a revival of pan-Asianism rooted in the online novel Illumine Lingao and its associated Industrial Party ideology, which focuses on industrial supremacy and regional dominance. This updated vision promotes an Asia led by China, often intertwined with racial superiority and historic grievances, such as Australia’s former White Australia Policy. Online posts frame Australia as an unclaimed land rich in resources, appealing to expansionist fantasies aimed at fueling China’s industrial rise. Although these sentiments lack official endorsement, they echo earlier semi-official statements advocating Asian leadership by China. The trend raises concerns about the long-term influence of grassroots nationalism, especially as past online ideologies have shaped diplomatic postures like Wolf Warrior diplomacy. The enthusiasm for pan-Asianism among China's educated youth highlights the unpredictable trajectory of political reform and nationalism within this demographic, challenging optimistic expectations of liberalization. Shijie Wang, Lowy Institute, March 27