Asia Daily: March 4, 2025

China

Falling behind is ‘biggest security risk’ in AI, Chinese political adviser says. Zhou Hongyi, a member of China’s top political advisory body, warned that lagging in artificial intelligence development poses the greatest security risk to the country. Speaking ahead of China’s annual parliamentary meetings, Zhou urged regulators to avoid excessive restrictions that could stifle growth. Other officials echoed concerns about balancing AI governance with fostering innovation, particularly as China advances its domestic AI sector despite U.S. sanctions. Sylvie Zhuang and William Zheng, South China Morning Post, March 4

China slams fresh U.S. tariff hike, calls for ‘equal talks’ to solve dispute. Beijing has condemned Washington’s latest tariff increase on Chinese products, vowing to take “all necessary countermeasures” if the U.S. proceeds with the new levies. President Donald Trump’s administration plans to impose an additional 10% tariff on Chinese exports, citing fentanyl-related concerns. China’s Ministry of Commerce urged the U.S. to withdraw the tariffs and return to negotiations, warning of potential retaliatory measures. Mia Nulimaimaiti, South China Morning Post, March 4

China hits back at U.S. imports as Trump's fresh tariffs take effect. Beijing has imposed additional tariffs of 10%-15% on U.S. agricultural and food imports, including chicken, wheat, pork, and dairy, in response to new U.S. levies tied to fentanyl-related concerns. The U.S. tariffs, which took effect March 4, raised duties on Chinese goods to 20%. China’s commerce ministry condemned the move as a violation of WTO rules and vowed to protect its economic interests. Reuters, March 4

Japan

Japan jobless rate in Jan. unchanged at 2.5% amid tight labor market. Japan’s unemployment rate remained at 2.5% in January for the fourth consecutive month, reflecting a tight labor market as the number of employed people rose to 68.27 million. The number of job seekers increased by 11.6% to 480,000, while voluntary resignations fell by 1.3%. The job availability ratio improved slightly to 1.26, meaning 126 positions were available for every 100 job seekers. Kyodo News, March 4

Russia adds Japan's foreign minister and eight others to entry ban. Moscow has permanently barred nine Japanese citizens from entering Russia in retaliation for Tokyo’s sanctions over the Ukraine war. The list includes Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwai, Isuzu President Shinsuke Minami, and Shohei Hara of the Japan International Cooperation Agency. Japan previously protested similar bans imposed on its officials and business leaders. Russia has issued similar sanctions against the U.S., Canada, and other nations. Marina Bobrova and Maxim Rodionov, Reuters, March 3

Lower House committee passes budget bill for fiscal 2025. Japan’s Lower House Budget Committee approved the fiscal 2025 budget bill after opposition parties failed to delay the vote over a political funding scandal. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party, Komeito, and Nippon Ishin ensured passage by incorporating education policies. The budget includes an income tax threshold increase from 1.03 million yen to 1.6 million yen. The full Lower House is expected to approve the bill later today. The Asahi Shimbun, March 4

South Korea

Acting President Choi urges gov't-parliament-private cooperation to face 'America First' policy. South Korea’s Acting President Choi Sang-mok called for unity among the government, parliament, and private sector to navigate the challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s "America First" policy. He warned that South Korea cannot rely solely on allies for security and economic stability. Choi also announced an agreement with Washington to establish a working-level consultative body on tariffs and industrial cooperation. Kim Han-joo, Yonhap News Agency, March 4

S. Korea joins U.S.-led multinational anti-submarine drills in Guam. South Korea is participating in the U.S.-led Sea Dragon exercise off Guam, joining forces with the U.S., Japan, Australia, and India to enhance anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The drills, running from March 4 to 14, involve tracking simulated underwater targets and improving combined operations. South Korea first joined as an observer in 2019 before becoming a full participant in 2020. Chae Yun-hwan, Yonhap News Agency, March 4

S. Korea expresses interest in Alaska LNG project to bolster trade relations with U.S.: sources. South Korea has signaled interest in joining the U.S. and Japan in developing the Alaska liquefied natural gas project as a potential bargaining tool in ongoing trade negotiations with Washington. Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun conveyed this intent during meetings with U.S. officials, aiming to offset potential tariffs on steel, cars, and chips. South Korea is also proposing shipbuilding cooperation with the U.S. The Korea Herald, March 4

Constitutional Court's March schedule hints at imminent ruling. South Korea’s Constitutional Court is expected to rule on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment by mid-March, following the final hearing on February 25. Justices have been deliberating daily and are set to exchange opinions starting March 5. Legal analysts predict a ruling on either March 7 or 14, based on past impeachment cases. The decision could be delayed if a new justice is appointed or if the court prioritizes the ruling on Prime Minister Han Duck-soo’s impeachment. Dong-Jun Heo, The Dong-A Ilbo, March 4

North Korea

N. Korea warns of stepped-up actions against arrival of U.S. aircraft carrier in S. Korea. Kim Yo-jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, condemned the USS Carl Vinson’s arrival in Busan, calling it a provocation that justifies North Korea’s nuclear buildup. She warned that Pyongyang will consider increasing strategic-level threats if the U.S. continues military demonstrations. The carrier’s deployment marks the first visit by a U.S. aircraft carrier to South Korea since President Donald Trump returned to office. Kim Soo-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, March 4

India

India's trade minister heads to U.S. for talks as Trump tariffs loom, officials say. Indian Trade Minister Piyush Goyal has traveled to the U.S. for urgent discussions on President Donald Trump's planned reciprocal tariffs, which could cost India $7 billion annually. Goyal will seek clarity on potential tariff exemptions while negotiating trade concessions. India has already reduced tariffs on luxury goods and defense imports but resists cuts on agricultural products. Bilateral trade aims to reach $500 billion by 2030. Manoj Kumar and Shivangi Acharya, Reuters, March 3

India's April-January finished steel imports from S. Korea, China, Japan hit record high. India’s finished steel imports from South Korea, China, and Japan reached a record high in the first 10 months of the financial year, with combined shipments accounting for 78% of total imports. South Korea led with 2.4 million metric tons, followed by China (2.3 million) and Japan (1.8 million). The government is considering a 15%-25% safeguard duty to curb rising imports. Neha Arora, Reuters, March 4

Thailand

Govt dismisses poll's finding of discontent. The Thai government has rejected a poll by the National Institute of Development Administration showing most Thais are dissatisfied with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s administration. Government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub claimed the survey’s open-ended questions were biased and cited official data indicating economic improvements. The poll found 54.58% of respondents were dissatisfied with the government’s performance, while 38.12% expressed confidence in its ability to solve national issues. Mongkol Bangprapa, Bangkok Post, March 3

DSI set to decide whether to probe Senate election. Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation will announce Thursday whether it will investigate alleged collusion in last year’s Senate election. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong confirmed that extensive new evidence has emerged, including a leaked list of 1,200 names linked to the vote. A Senate petition seeks to halt the probe, while unsuccessful candidates have called for an ethics investigation into senators opposing it. Bangkok Post, Bangkok Post, March 3

Myanmar

Myanmar’s head of military government travels to ally Russia for talks with Putin. Myanmar junta leader Min Aung Hlaing has arrived in Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, focusing on security and economic cooperation. Russia, a key arms supplier to Myanmar, has defended the military government internationally. The visit follows joint military drills and agreements on nuclear power. Western nations continue to impose sanctions on Myanmar’s junta for its violent suppression of opposition groups. AP News, March 3

AA continues push to take Sittwe, as Myanmar junta presses offensive near Kyaukphyu. The Arakan Army (AA) is intensifying its offensive against Myanmar’s military in Rakhine State, targeting junta positions in Sittwe and Kyaukphyu. Fighting has centered on War Bo, six miles north of Sittwe, as the AA attacks regime bases, including a naval installation near Shwe Min Gan port. The junta is deploying ground, naval, and air forces in response. Clashes continue as both sides vie for strategic control. Ruang Ni, Myanmar Now, March 4

Philippines

Philippines to scrutinize donations by suspected Chinese spies. The Philippine government will investigate donations made by Chinese Communist Party-linked groups led by four Chinese nationals accused of espionage. The groups donated cash, motorbikes, and patrol vehicles to local officials and police. Authorities will assess whether the donations had ulterior motives. The Philippines has recently arrested at least eight suspected Chinese spies amid rising tensions over South China Sea disputes. Karen Lema and Mikhail Flores, Reuters, March 3

Philippines confident Trump will continue military patrols to keep China in check in disputed sea. The Philippines’ ambassador to the United States, Jose Romualdez, expressed confidence that President Donald Trump will maintain military patrols in the South China Sea and proceed with expanding U.S. military presence in the country. Talks between Philippine and U.S. officials reaffirmed commitments to security cooperation and economic initiatives, including critical minerals and nuclear energy. A potential meeting between Trump and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is being arranged. Jim Gomez, AP News, March 3

Philippine Air Force fighter jet with two pilots goes missing. An FA-50 fighter jet of the Philippine Air Force disappeared early Tuesday during a tactical night operation. The aircraft, carrying two pilots, lost communication with its formation minutes before reaching its target area near Mactan Airbase in Cebu. Search and rescue operations are underway, with officials hopeful for the pilots’ safe return. The FA-50s were acquired from South Korea for ₱18.9 billion. John Eric Mendoza, Philippine Daily Inquirer, March 4

Vietnam

Europe prepares charm offensive in Vietnam amid U.S. trade risks. European leaders are planning visits to Vietnam in the coming months to strengthen economic ties as tensions with Washington threaten Hanoi’s exports to the U.S. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron aim to deepen cooperation, particularly in trade, infrastructure, and military supplies. The EU imported $52 billion worth of Vietnamese goods last year and seeks to expand investment as Vietnam diversifies its economic partnerships. Francesco Guarascio, Reuters, March 3

Kyrgyzstan's prime minister to pay official visit to Vietnam. Kyrgyz Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev will visit Vietnam from March 6 to 7 at the invitation of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. The visit aims to enhance bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and political relations. Vietnam extended congratulations to Kasymaliev on his appointment in December, signaling a commitment to strengthening ties between the two countries. Vietnam News, March 4

Vietnam, Sweden promote parliamentary cooperation. Vietnam’s National Assembly Deputy Chairman Tran Quang Phuong met with Swedish parliamentary officials to strengthen bilateral ties, emphasizing political trust, trade, investment, and digital transformation. The two sides discussed increasing high-level exchanges and enhancing cooperation in policymaking and renewable energy. Sweden’s delegation, led by Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Aron Emilsson, expressed hope for upgrading relations to a strategic partnership. Vietnam News, March 4

Laos

Luang Prabang declared poverty-free province amid economic growth. Laos has officially designated Luang Prabang as a poverty-free province following major improvements in infrastructure, education, and living standards. Mayor Viengthong Hatsachan credited the region’s economic stability and booming tourism sector, which generated $560 million in 2024. Over 98% of families in the province now meet poverty-free criteria, including stable employment and access to essential services. The government plans further tourism-driven development initiatives. Kheuakham Chanlivong, The Laotian Times, March 4

Vientiane, Moscow strengthen ties through cooperation agreement. The governors of Vientiane and Moscow have signed an agreement to enhance bilateral relations, focusing on cultural heritage, urban planning, environmental protection, tourism, and industrial development. The deal, signed during a Lao delegation’s visit to Russia from February 25 to March 6, also aims to boost trade, investment, and infrastructure collaboration. Both sides pledged to ensure the agreement’s effective implementation. Vientiane Times, March 4

Cambodia

CDC shares Cambodia’s efforts to enhance business environment. The Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) highlighted ongoing reforms to attract foreign investment during a meeting with a California business delegation. First Vice President Sun Chanthol emphasized Cambodia’s economic progress, digital transformation initiatives, and favorable investment policies. The delegation, representing diverse industries, praised Cambodia’s infrastructure and trade incentives. Hin Pisei, The Phnom Penh Post, March 4

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan to expand oil, gas, and green energy production in 2025. Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy plans to increase crude oil production to 96.2 million tons and natural gas output to 62.8 billion cubic meters in 2025. The government is also expanding gas infrastructure and aims to boost renewable energy, with nine new projects adding 455.5 MW of capacity. Renewables accounted for 6.4% of electricity generation in 2024, with further growth expected. Sergey Kwan, The Times of Central Asia, March 3

Kazakhstan launches digital nomad residency project. Kazakhstan has introduced the Digital Nomad Residency program, allowing foreign IT professionals to work and reside permanently in the country. Applicants must obtain a Kazakh Individual Identification Number and submit documents, including a resume and criminal record certificate, via the Astana Hub portal. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Digital Development, aims to attract global tech talent and strengthen Kazakhstan’s innovation sector. The Astana Times, March 3

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan trying to lure labor migrants back home. The Uzbek government is urging its migrant workers, particularly those in Russia and Turkey, to return home to help build "New Tashkent," a massive expansion of the capital. Embassies have posted job listings for up to 10,000 skilled workers, promising competitive salaries. The project aims to transform Uzbekistan’s economy by reducing reliance on raw material exports and boosting domestic employment. Eurasianet, March 4

Tajikistan

Tajikistan announces preliminary parliamentary election results; OSCE absent. Tajikistan’s Central Commission for Elections and Referenda reported an 85.3% voter turnout in the March 2 parliamentary elections, with the ruling People’s Democratic Party securing 51.9% of the vote. The Communist Party failed to meet the 5% threshold for representation. The OSCE canceled its observer mission, citing accreditation issues, while the Shanghai Cooperation Organization deemed the election fair. Vagit Ismailov, The Times of Central Asia, March 3

Northeast Asia

China stands to gain from South Korea’s political crisis. South Korea is embroiled in political turmoil following President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment and arrest after his controversial declaration of martial law in December 2024. This instability has led to mass protests, diminished public trust, and a leadership vacuum, with Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok serving as interim leader. Amid this chaos, China is poised to benefit by advancing its territorial claims in the Yellow Sea, resuming installations in disputed waters while South Korea's government is preoccupied. Additionally, heightened anti-Chinese sentiments in South Korea, fueled by allegations of espionage and disinformation, have deepened domestic discord, further serving Beijing's interests. The potential rise of the opposition Democratic Party, perceived as pro-China, could strain South Korea's relations with Japan and the United States, aligning more closely with Beijing's strategic objectives. Eerishika Pankaj, East Asia Forum, March 3

Rebuilding trust in China’s food safety system. In July 2024, a scandal emerged as The Beijing News reported that Hopefull Grain & Oil Group and China Grain Reserves Oil and Fat had been transporting edible oils using uncleaned fuel trucks for years, sparking public outrage and anxiety over food safety. Despite the 2009 enactment of China's Food Safety Law and subsequent amendments, enforcement challenges persist due to complex supply chains, inadequate penalties, and corruption. To restore trust, experts recommend improving regulatory enforcement and public communication, involving businesses in disseminating accurate information, protecting whistleblowers, aligning national standards with international benchmarks, imposing stricter penalties on violators, and strengthening cross-regional supervision. Leveraging China's advanced information technology systems could also empower more transparent and efficient food safety regulation. Lei Liu and Meilin Tang, East Asia Forum, March 4

Feminism is still a dirty word in China. In March 2015, Beijing police detained five young women, later known as the Feminist Five, for planning to distribute anti-sexual harassment stickers on the subway for International Women's Day. They were jailed for over a month, received "criminal suspect" status, and remain under surveillance. A decade later, discussions among Chinese scholars reveal debates about feminism's relevance in China, with some viewing it as a Western concept and others asserting its necessity within Chinese society. Since Xi Jinping became Communist Party General Secretary in 2012, China has dropped 37 ranks in the Global Gender Gap Index. Currently, no women serve among the 24 Politburo members, reflecting diminished female representation in public office. The Communist Party promotes traditional roles for women to address an aging population and has tightened control over feminist activism through online censorship and the 2017 Overseas NGO Law, which restricts foreign funding for local NGOs. Despite these challenges, Chinese feminists continue to adapt, utilizing social media for advocacy while navigating governmental constraints. Activists like Lü Pin emphasize pursuing practical changes within the system rather than seeking regime overthrow. While progress may be slow, the ongoing efforts of Chinese feminists show a persistent struggle for gender equality within a complex political landscape. Ciara Morris, The Interpreter, March 3

From Washington to Beijing, a Nuclear Tit-for-Tat. The United States and China are currently at an impasse regarding arms control, with China's nuclear arsenal experiencing significant growth in recent years. This has raised concerns in Washington about potential changes in Beijing's nuclear strategy. However, Chinese experts assert that despite the increase in warheads, China maintains its no-first-use policy and has not altered the strategic role of its nuclear weapons. The lack of transparency surrounding China's nuclear capabilities contributes to U.S. apprehensions, leading to discussions about modernizing and potentially expanding America's own nuclear forces. Robert Rust, The Diplomat, March 3

Central Asia

Gold Plot Auction Heightens Focus on Chinese Investments in Uzbekistan. In early February, Uzbekistan auctioned 31 gold mining plots in the Navoi region, collectively selling for 25.1 billion Uzbek soms ($1.95 million) to 12 companies. Notable winners included Xinlong Mining Drilling, securing eight plots for 9.1 billion soms, Neo Gold Mining with four plots at 2.7 billion soms, Zhonghuitong Mining Group acquiring four plots for 1.13 billion soms, and Golden Diggers obtaining three plots for 3.24 billion soms. The prominence of companies with Chinese-sounding names sparked public speculation about increasing Chinese business interests in Uzbekistan. This reflects local sensitivities regarding foreign investments, particularly from China, in Central Asia. Catherine Putz, The Diplomat, March 4

Southeast Asia

Impact of Trump 2.0 on Southeast Asia’s Energy Geopolitics. The Trump administration's inward-looking and rent-seeking foreign policy is poised to significantly alter Southeast Asia's energy transition dynamics. The potential cessation of U.S. involvement in the region's energy sector, exemplified by the shutdown of USAID, heightens concerns over China's dominance in energy infrastructure projects, including the ASEAN Power Grid (APG). In 2022, China contributed approximately US$534 million to Southeast Asia's energy sector, accounting for 26% of total aid, whereas the U.S. provided only US$23.7 million, or 1%. Additionally, China's state-owned enterprises, such as the China Southern Power Grid Company and State Grid Corporation of China, own and operate large portions of national grids in Laos and the Philippines, respectively. Furthermore, Trump's proposal to leverage critical minerals as bargaining tools for military assistance, as seen in the demand for Ukraine's mineral resources in exchange for support, raises concerns about the implications for Southeast Asia's vision for sustainable mineral development. This approach could compel regional countries to make difficult choices between aligning with China or the U.S., challenging their preference for strategic non-alignment. Mirza Sadaqat Huda, Fulcrum, March 3

Oceania

The live-fire loophole in the law of the sea. In February 2025, the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLA-N) conducted live-fire exercises in the Tasman Sea, international waters beyond Australia's and New Zealand's exclusive economic zones. While such activities are legally permissible under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the PLA-N's failure to provide advance notice raised safety and professionalism concerns. Typically, nations issue alerts to mariners and airmen prior to such exercises to ensure safety; however, the PLA-N only broadcast warnings on emergency frequencies during the drills, leading to disruptions in commercial aviation and highlighting a gap in international law regarding mandatory notifications for live-fire exercises on the high seas. This incident underscores the need for clearer protocols to uphold safety and professionalism in naval operations. Donald R Rothwell, The Interpreter, March 3

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