Asia Daily: May 1, 2025

China

China’s State Council appoints, removes officials. China’s State Council announced a series of personnel changes on April 30. Yan Qinghui was appointed vice minister of human resources and social security, Wang Zhao became vice general supervisor of national natural resources, and Chen Dan was named deputy director of the China National Intellectual Property Administration. Several officials, including Liu Guoyong, Li Danlu, and Zhou Jie, were removed from their posts. State Council of the People's Republic of China, April 30

China, U.S. have not held tariff talks in past 24 hours, FM says. China’s Foreign Ministry stated that no consultations or negotiations on tariffs have occurred with the United States in the past 24 hours. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the remarks at a press briefing on April 30 in response to media inquiries, clarifying the absence of recent engagement on the issue. Global Times, April 30

Stay alert to external forces, Xi Jinping says as China embarks on 5-year planning. Chinese President Xi Jinping urged provincial officials to prepare for global disruptions as China shapes its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030). In meetings in Shanghai, Xi emphasized balancing development and security, calling for stronger national security systems and innovation-driven growth. He highlighted the importance of technological self-reliance, boosting domestic demand, and adapting to international pressures amid U.S. tensions. A law standardizing plan formulation is also under review. Alyssa Chen, South China Morning Post, April 30

Japan

315 people gearing up to run in Japan’s Upper House race. As of April 30, 315 individuals are preparing to contest Japan’s upcoming House of Councilors election. The main focus is whether Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s coalition can maintain a majority of 125 seats, including holdovers. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party has already fielded candidates in 32 single-seat constituencies, while the opposition, including the Constitutional Democratic Party, is lagging in coordinating nominations. The Japan Times, May 1

Japan PM hails ‘relations of trust’ with Vietnam, Philippine leaders. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba concluded his Southeast Asia visit by affirming strengthened ties with leaders in Vietnam and the Philippines. In Hanoi, he agreed with PM Pham Minh Chinh to launch a vice-ministerial foreign and defense dialogue. In Manila, he and President Marcos Jr. began talks on a defense-sharing pact. Ishiba called the trip “meaningful,” stressing security cooperation amid rising tensions in regional waters. Kyodo News, April 30

South Korea

Acting president likely to resign Thursday to run for president. Acting South Korean President Han Duck-soo is expected to resign on May 2 to launch his presidential bid the next day, aiming to challenge Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung in the June 3 election. Han plans to deliver a message calling for national unity and constitutional reforms, including shortening the presidential term. His run is likely to prompt merger talks with the conservative People Power Party. Lee Haye-ah, Yonhap News Agency, April 30

PPP presidential finalists differ on merger with Han Duck-soo. People Power Party candidates Kim Moon-soo and Han Dong-hoon offered diverging views on a potential merger with Acting President Han Duck-soo during a televised debate. Kim supported pursuing the merger promptly if nominated, while Han called such discussions premature. They agreed on collaborating with former PPP chair Lee Jun-seok but differed on nuclear strategy and China policy. Hwang Joo-young, The Korea Herald, May 1

Rival parties agree to increase extra budget to 13.8 tln won. South Korea’s rival parties agreed to raise the extra budget to 13.8 trillion won to support disaster response and economic recovery, up from the government’s initial 12.2 trillion won proposal. The plan includes 400 billion won in local currency vouchers, 170 billion won for food product discounts, and 115.7 billion won for university scholarships. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, May 1

North Korea

Road bridge linking N. Korea, Russia to bolster economic cooperation: KCNA. North Korea and Russia launched construction of an 850-meter road bridge across the Tumen River, aimed at enhancing bilateral economic ties. Ceremonies were held simultaneously in Rason and Khasan, with leaders emphasizing the bridge as critical infrastructure for travel, tourism, and trade. The project stems from a 2024 treaty signed by Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin and is expected to be completed by 2026. Kim Soo-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, May 1

Thailand

Supreme Court to decide whether Thaksin served his jail term. Thailand’s Supreme Court will review whether former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s time at Police General Hospital qualifies as serving his prison sentence. The court dismissed a suit from ex-MP Charnchai Issarasenarak, citing lack of standing, but opened its own inquiry into the matter. Thaksin was hospitalized just 13 hours after entering prison in August 2023 and remained there until his early 2024 parole. Bangkok Post, April 30

Vietnam

Party chief holds phone talks with European Council president. Vietnamese Party General Secretary To Lam held phone talks with European Council President Antonio Costa on April 30 to mark the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification. Both leaders praised the growing partnership between Vietnam and the EU, highlighting cooperation in trade, green transition, science, and innovation. Lam called for resolving barriers to economic ties, while Costa supported advancing bilateral priorities. Vietnam News, May 1

Vietnam mobilises all resources to propel national growth. Marking key anniversaries in 2025, Vietnam is accelerating efforts to advance economic, social, and political development under the Communist Party’s leadership. The economy surpassed US$470 billion, FDI rose nearly 35% in early 2025, and exports hit US$202 billion. General Secretary To Lam outlined seven national priorities, including institutional reform, anti-corruption and digital transformation. Vietnam News, April 30.

Myanmar

Thousands displaced as Myanmar junta continues military operations near quake epicentre. Myanmar junta forces have displaced thousands of earthquake survivors from villages near Yae Myet Kyi Lake in Sagaing Region since mid-April, following a magnitude-7.7 quake. Troops from Light Infantry Division 33 reportedly raided and burned homes in Kyauk Pa Nan and forced evacuations in at least six other villages. Myanmar Now, April 30

Myanmar junta calls for Naypyitaw construction firms to repair quake damage. Myanmar’s military regime has instructed original contractors to repair government buildings in Naypyitaw damaged by the March 28 earthquake. Defense Minister Maung Maung Aye, chairing a new restoration committee, said over 40 teams are inspecting damage, with the Naypyitaw Development Affairs Committee tasked with staff housing. Maung Kavi, The Irrawaddy, April 30

Laos

Laos seeks solutions to address new United States tariff hikes. Economic growth in East Asia and the Pacific has slowed in 2025, with Laos among the hardest hit by new U.S. tariffs, facing a 48% increase—the region’s second highest. The World Bank warned the hikes could significantly disrupt Laos’ exports, manufacturing, and job market. In response, Lao authorities are working with industry leaders to develop measures to sustain trade with the U.S. and protect key sectors. Thongsavanh Souvannasane, The Laotian Times, April 30

Cambodia

Ministry rejects false information on $3.5 billion Chinese petroleum refinery in Cambodia. Cambodia’s Ministry of Mines and Energy denied reports of a $3.5 billion petroleum refinery project in Kampot province by Guanzun Energy Investment, stating the company has not received government approval. The ministry urged the public to stop spreading inaccurate claims about the 10-million-ton-per-year refinery, which had circulated widely in media and online platforms. Khmer Times, May 1

Philippines

PH eyes military ties with Taiwan. The Philippines is moving toward deeper informal military cooperation with Taiwan, including potential joint activities and regular warship transits through the Taiwan Strait. Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said these steps reflect a long-term security strategy to counter China's aggressive actions in Philippine-claimed waters. While Manila maintains a One-China policy, coordination on maritime security is increasing. Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, May 1

Sara Duterte to attend the prelim probe of sedition charge vs her. Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte confirmed she will personally appear before the National Bureau of Investigation for a preliminary hearing into sedition and grave threat charges linked to her public remarks in November 2023. Duterte allegedly told someone to assassinate President Marcos, First Lady Liza Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez if she were killed. Charie Abarca, Philippine Daily Inquirer, April 30

Indonesia

Indonesia to develop Makassar Port as new export hub. The Indonesian government plans to transform Makassar Port into a major export hub alongside Tanjung Priok and Surabaya, aiming to reduce logistics costs and support eastern Indonesia’s economic growth. The port, currently using only 300,000 of its 2 million TEU capacity, is positioned on key global shipping lanes. ANTARA News, April 30

On May Day, Prabowo pledges free education, anti-corruption drive. President Prabowo Subianto marked his first May Day in office by vowing to fight poverty, expand access to public services, and eradicate corruption. Addressing thousands of workers at Jakarta’s Monas, he pledged free education, affordable healthcare, and the creation of a National Labor Welfare Council. Prabowo condemned systemic graft and warned officials to stop stealing public funds, calling corruption the key obstacle to national development. Ilham Oktafian, Jakarta Globe, May 1

Singapore

11 election rallies to be held on May 1, final day of campaigning. Eleven rallies will take place across Singapore on May 1 as parties conclude campaigning before the May 2 cooling-off period and May 3 vote. Parties holding events include the PAP, Workers’ Party, PSP, SDP, PPP, and Red Dot United, along with independent candidate Jeremy Tan. Police advised attendees to use public transport due to crowding and warned of traffic controls and restricted parking. Elaine Lee, The Straits Times, April 30

Singapore PM urges voters to re-elect his cabinet to deal with U.S., China. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong urged Singaporeans to re-elect his cabinet at the May 3 election, warning that economic turbulence and job losses could worsen under inexperienced leadership amid escalating U.S.-China tensions. Addressing a 1.4 million-strong labor union, Wong emphasized the need for leaders with strong ties to both powers. He backed Deputy PM Gan Kim Yong, calling him essential to managing tariff fallout. Xinghui Kok, Reuters, May 1

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, AIIB mobilize finance to bridge infrastructure gap. Kazakhstan and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) are intensifying efforts to close Asia’s infrastructure funding gap through private capital and sustainable investment. At a high-level forum in Astana, officials announced $2 billion in AIIB investments for Kazakh projects, including roads, hospitals, and renewable energy. The government aims to reconstruct 4,000 km of roads by 2030, largely with off-budget funds. Nagima Abuova, The Astana Times, April 30

Vietnam’s Communist Party General Secretary To Lam to pay state visit to Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan’s presidential office confirmed that Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary To Lam will make a state visit to Kazakhstan, with discussions focused on deepening cooperation in energy, finance, digital technology, and innovation. The upcoming visit reflects both nations’ interest in expanding strategic ties across key sectors. Adlet Seilkhanov, Kazinform, April 30

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan and Russia to launch joint drone production plant by end of 2025. Uzbekistan and Russia will open a joint drone manufacturing facility by year’s end, led by Russian firm “Transport of the Future.” The $100 million plant will be 50% localized in Uzbekistan and focus on civilian drone production for various sectors. The initiative includes cooperation with aviation regulators, plans for a joint scientific council, and investment in workforce development to support long-term industry growth. Sadokat Jalolova, The Times of Central Asia, April 30

Uzbekistan government delegation visits Urumqi. Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov led a delegation to Urumqi from April 29–30, meeting with Ma Xinyu of the Chinese Politburo and Xinjiang Party Committee. Talks focused on expanding cooperation in trade, technology, infrastructure, agriculture, and green energy. Bilateral trade surpassed $13 billion in 2024, with a $20 billion target set by both countries’ presidents. Uzbekistan Daily, April 30

Kyrgyzstan

National Bank of Kyrgyzstan conducts 2nd intervention in currency market in 2025. The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan carried out its second foreign exchange intervention of the year, selling $158.3 million. Of that, $129.4 million was sold on April 29 with same-day settlement, while $28.9 million was settled on a later date. Total interventions in 2025 now amount to $237.3 million. The bank has not made any reverse interventions this year. Baktygul Osmonalieva, 24KG, April 30

New system of elections to Parliament: Bill adopted in third reading. Kyrgyzstan’s Parliament approved a bill introducing a new electoral system in its third reading on April 30. The law establishes 30 multi-mandate territorial constituencies under a majoritarian system, each electing three deputies—mandating one female representative per district. This structure allocates 60 seats to men and 30 to women, aimed at enhancing gender balance. Gulmira Makanbai Kyzy, 24KG, April 30

Northeast Asia

Is North Korea the Next Target of Trump’s Search for a Deal? Speculation is rising that Donald Trump may seek to revive diplomatic talks with North Korea following a high-profile meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. According to recent reports, Trump’s national security team is conducting early consultations about the possibility of renewed negotiations with Kim Jong Un, although nothing appears imminent. Experts believe that if the war in Ukraine stabilizes, Trump could shift focus to North Korea, potentially aiming for another face-to-face meeting. Analysts suggest North Korea is not interested in denuclearization talks but may engage if the U.S. shows willingness to accept its status as a nuclear weapons state. Russia’s growing support for North Korea, including military and economic aid, strengthens Pyongyang’s bargaining position. Some speculate that Putin could even facilitate a trilateral summit involving Trump and Kim. North Korea’s improved economic conditions, supported by broken sanctions, Chinese oil, and cyber theft revenues, reduce its urgency for negotiation. However, internal challenges persist, especially with youth exposure to South Korean culture. The outcome of South Korea’s upcoming presidential election could also influence the possibility. A return to a progressive government might re-enable inter-Korean engagement, although South Korea’s role may be secondary in U.S.-North Korea diplomacy. Daniel Sneider, KEI – Korea Economic Institute, April 30

Kavanagh and Wertheim Respond: Why Taiwan’s Survival Depends on Realistic Defense. Jennifer Kavanagh and Stephen Wertheim reaffirm their support for strategic ambiguity in U.S. policy toward Taiwan, countering mischaracterizations of their stance. They emphasize the importance of Taiwan focusing on bolstering its own defensive capabilities through asymmetric warfare strategies rather than relying solely on U.S. intervention. Their position advocates for the U.S. to plan privately to send arms, not troops, in the event of a Chinese invasion, while maintaining public ambiguity about military defense to deter both Beijing and pro-independence moves in Taipei. They reject claims that recent U.S. actions have broken the “one China” policy, arguing instead that these moves have diluted it and should be recalibrated to reduce tensions. The authors challenge optimistic assumptions about swift U.S. military intervention, suggesting that logistical delays would likely allow Chinese forces to gain a foothold in Taiwan. They assert that without an indigenous capacity to resist invasion and withstand initial assaults, Taiwan risks losing not only its security but also U.S. support. A strong, self-reliant defense is framed as essential to ensuring both deterrence and survival. Jennifer Kavanagh and Stephen Wertheim, CommonWealth Magazine, April 28

Women’s Rights Remain on the Sidelines at China’s Two Sessions. China’s 2025 Two Sessions meetings focused on economic and technological priorities, offering minimal focus on gender equality. Despite Foreign Minister Wang Yi announcing a Global Leaders’ Meeting on Gender Equality for later in the year, concrete state-level commitments remain absent. Female representation stands at 26.5% in the NPC and 22.4% in the CPPCC, but actual policymaking for women has declined, with related proposals dropping from 13 in 2024 to 8 in 2025. Premier Li Qiang’s Government Work Report mentioned women only once, using language identical to previous years that groups women with other vulnerable populations, reinforcing stereotypes rather than affirming equal agency. President Xi Jinping’s symbolic greetings to women during the sessions lacked substantive policy announcements. Compared to the progressive initiatives sparked by the 1995 World Conference on Women, current state rhetoric lacks follow-through. While Deputy Director Huang Xiaowei cited achievements like improved healthcare access and poverty alleviation, no plans were outlined to boost women’s political representation or leadership roles. The government’s framing of women’s rights as tools for economic and social stability, rather than justice, highlights the party-state’s instrumental approach to gender issues. Minglu Chen, East Asia Forum, May 1

Respect for the Hero. The story of Bupatam Abdukader, a 24-year-old auxiliary police officer in Xinjiang who rescued a toddler from a narrow well, captivated national attention in China and triggered widespread debate about systemic inequality within public service employment. Praised for her courage and awarded a local bravery honor, Bupatam’s employment as an auxiliary officer — a role with lower pay, fewer benefits, and limited career prospects — drew criticism from netizens who demanded she be granted formal status. Despite a rapid promotion within the auxiliary ranks, the government maintained that conversions to permanent positions must follow strict procedures to avoid favoritism. This response, though framed as fair governance, shows the entrenched two-tier employment structure that devalues the contributions of auxiliary workers, even in life-risking situations. The controversy reflects broader social frustrations over institutional inequities and the limits of state-sanctioned heroism, particularly when involving ethnic minority figures like Bupatam. While public sentiment called for meaningful rewards and status equality, official narratives ultimately reinforced the Party’s definition of heroism as sacrifice in service of the system, not reform of it. David Bandurski, China Media Project, April 30

How China’s AI Development Remains Resilient Despite Escalating US Chip Export Restrictions. Despite escalating US export controls targeting advanced semiconductor technologies, including a recent ban on Nvidia’s H20 chip, China’s AI sector continues to demonstrate resilience through adaptation and state support. The constraints have hindered but not halted progress, with Chinese firms like Huawei and DeepSeek adapting by developing domestic alternatives such as the Kirin 9000s chip and HarmonyOS Next, albeit with performance limitations. Instead of focusing on fundamental research like artificial general intelligence, China focuses on AI adoption in public services, industrial operations, and consumer technologies, supported by robust government policies and a large domestic market. Local governments and manufacturers are integrating AI to streamline governance and increase production efficiency. Projections indicate China will surpass 30% AI adoption across industries by 2030. The state’s “AI Plus” initiative further accelerates integration, with flagship applications like autonomous driving gaining momentum. Though US restrictions may delay innovation, China’s capacity as a second mover—leveraging scale, coordination, and rapid deployment—positions it to lead in applied AI. The technological rivalry is expected to persist, driven by asymmetric advantages: US dominance in foundational research versus China’s strength in widespread implementation. Andy Liao, Sino-Southeast Initiative, April 30

Southeast Asia

State-Level Empowerment of Sufism in Addressing the Salafi-Wahhabi Threat in Malaysia. At the February 2025 “Muzakarah Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah” event, the Sultan of Perak discussed the importance of integrating Sufism into Malaysia’s Islamic framework to counter rising extremism linked to Salafi-Wahhabism. Highlighting the limitations of a purely jurisprudential approach, the Sultan called for institutional recognition and education of Sufi practices across schools, mosques, and universities. Seven key resolutions were proposed, including formal recognition of Sufi orders, regulatory legislation, and countermeasures against Wahhabi delegitimization. This initiative aligns with efforts in states like Negeri Sembilan and Selangor, where regulatory frameworks for Sufi practices have been or are being developed. The institutionalization of Sufism is positioned as both a spiritual and strategic response to rigid religious interpretations, aiming to re-center Islamic practice around compassion and balance. However, the national political climate remains complex. While states like Perlis openly support Salafi-Wahhabism, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s ambiguous stance—evidenced by his engagement with figures like Zakir Naik and the Mufti of Perlis—risks alienating traditional Sunni and Sufi communities. Without a clear federal position, ideological tensions between palace-supported Sufism and federally tolerated Wahhabism may increase. Mohd Faizal Musa, Fulcrum, April 30

Central Asia

Gazprom Finds an Alternative Market in Central Asia. With the expiration of its gas transit agreement with Ukraine and a sharp decline in exports to Europe, Gazprom has turned to Central Asia as a key alternative market. Once responsible for 40% of Europe’s gas imports, Russia now provides just 11%, forcing Gazprom to seek less profitable but viable sales in a region grappling with energy deficits. Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have emerged as large consumers due to increased domestic needs and insufficient production. While Kazakhstan’s gas exports fell by 40% in 2024, domestic consumption rose, and Uzbekistan moved from exporting to importing gas, including supplies from Russia. Although these Central Asian markets are heavily subsidized and yield smaller margins, they offer Gazprom critical sales opportunities amid sanctions and geopolitical isolation. Experts caution that Russia may use gas deals to seek political concessions, although past proposals like a “Gas Union” were firmly rejected by regional governments. Meanwhile, the absence of viable European markets and the slow progress of green energy transitions in Central Asia further cement the region's role as a stopgap outlet for Russian gas. This relationship may persist through the decade, driven by mutual necessity rather than strategic alignment. Paolo Sorbello, Vlast, April 25

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