China
U.S. outlines agreement with China to curb fentanyl chemicals as tariffs ease. The United States detailed a deal under which China will tighten controls on fentanyl precursors, including seven chemical subsidiaries, after an FBI delegation visited Beijing. In return, Washington cut tariffs on related Chinese goods from 20 to 10 per cent. The move targets supplies fueling tens of thousands of US overdose deaths annually. Frank Tang, South China Morning Post, November 12
Xi Jinping vows to boost imports from Spain and deepen ties in talks with King Felipe. Meeting Spain’s King Felipe in Beijing, Xi Jinping pledged to import more Spanish products, expand investment, and cooperate on new energy, digital technology and artificial intelligence, while Felipe praised Chinese investment’s role in Spain’s economy and backed deeper collaboration in trade and green development. Zhao Ziwen, South China Morning Post, November 12
PLA bans 4 Chinese universities from procurement process over bid-rigging. China’s People’s Liberation Army barred Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing Jiaotong University, Harbin Institute of Technology and Harbin Engineering University from bidding on military projects after finding collusion in tenders for simulation and algorithm contracts. The bans, ranging from two years to permanent, expand an anti-corruption campaign targeting defence procurement. Alcott Wei, South China Morning Post, November 12
China and Cook Islands team up on sea survey as rare earths race expands to oceans. China’s research vessel Da Yang Hao completed a nine-day joint expedition with Cook Islands scientists northeast of Rarotonga, mapping seabeds and studying deep-sea ecosystems under a new strategic partnership and seabed mining memorandum, as both countries deepen marine research cooperation amid growing competition for polymetallic nodules and critical minerals in the South Pacific. Laura Zhou, South China Morning Post, November 12
Japan
‘Crossed the line’: Chinese state media blast Japan PM as Taiwan spat rumbles on. Chinese state media attacked Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for suggesting Japan could respond militarily to a Chinese move on Taiwan. CCTV called her remarks malicious, while Japanese lawmakers urged the expulsion of Consul General Xue Jian after he posted a threatening comment. Beijing and Tokyo exchanged formal protests. Liz Lee and John Geddie, Reuters, November 12
Takaichi declines to confirm stance on ‘3 non-nuclear principles’. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi declined to say whether Japan’s three non-nuclear principles will be kept in revised security documents, stating they remain a current policy guideline but future wording is undecided. She previously wrote that banning nuclear weapon introduction is unrealistic, while opposition lawmaker Mari Kushibuchi insisted the principles are immutable national policy. Takuro Chiba and Taro Ono, The Asahi Shimbun, November 12
LDP begins internal talks on Lower House seat reduction. Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party has started internal talks on cutting seats in the House of Representatives under a deal with its new coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, aiming to pass legislation during the current Diet session through December 17. Shunichi Suzuki urged steady progress on the agreed reform agenda. The Japan Times, November 12
South Korea
Justice ministry, prosecution clash over alleged external pressure to forgo appeal in corruption case. Controversy deepened after prosecutors dropped an appeal in a Seongnam development graft case tied to President Lee Jae Myung, prompting internal backlash and resignation offers. Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho denied pressuring prosecutors, while opposition parties demanded accountability from the ministry and presidential office. Kang Yoon-seung, Yonhap News Agency, November 12
Acting prosecutor general quits in wake of uproar over appeal. Acting Prosecutor General Noh Man-seok resigned after prosecutors dropped an appeal in the Daejang-dong land development case, which could affect allegations involving President Lee Jae Myung. Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho denied exerting pressure, while the opposition PPP demanded resignations, probes and nationwide protests, leaving top prosecution posts vacant amid deepening political confrontation. Bahk Eun-ji, The Korea Times, November 12
PM discusses bilateral ties with Qatari energy minister. Prime Minister Kim Min-seok met Qatari Energy Minister Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi in Seoul to discuss cooperation in liquefied natural gas, artificial intelligence, and broader technology fields. Kim noted Qatar’s role as South Korea’s second-largest LNG supplier and highlighted Korean shipbuilders’ major carrier orders, while both sides voiced interest in expanding collaboration. Kang Yoon-seung, Yonhap News Agency, November 12
North Korea
N. Korea, Laos’ FMs agree to strengthen bilateral ties, cooperation. North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui and Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane met in Pyongyang and agreed to expand cooperation, implement commitments made by their leaders in October, and support each other internationally. The talks followed the Lao delegation’s arrival for follow-up discussions after last month’s summit. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, November 13
N. Korea’s press committee signs media cooperation agreement with Russia. North Korea’s committee for press affairs signed a media cooperation pact with Russia’s communications and media ministry in Moscow, providing for information exchanges, mutual broadcasts, and expanded links between state and private outlets. Both sides said the agreement opens new opportunities for deeper coordination following last year’s strategic partnership treaty. Park Boram, Yonhap News Agency, November 13
Thailand
Thai-Cambodia border tensions escalate, at least one dead. One Cambodian was killed and three injured after Thailand and Cambodia exchanged fire near a disputed border village on November 12. The clash followed a Thai soldier’s injury from a landmine, which Thailand claims was newly planted. Cambodia denies the accusation. The incident threatens a U.S.-brokered truce signed in October. Panu Wongcha-um and Chayut Setboonsarng, Reuters, November 12
No advisory council for new charter. A parliamentary vetting committee decided that Thailand’s new constitution will be drafted solely by a 35-member charter-drafting committee, removing the opposition People’s Party proposal for a directly elected 100-member advisory council. Lawmakers cited concerns over a court ruling that restricted such bodies and pledged alternative mechanisms for public participation. Aekarach Sattaburuth, Bangkok Post, November 13
Myanmar
U.S issues sanctions against Myanmar armed group over scams. The United States imposed sanctions on the Democratic Karen Benevolent Army and four leaders for aiding cyber scams that targeted Americans from areas under their control. The Treasury also sanctioned Chinese-linked entities and individuals. Officials said the group trafficked people and helped fuel Myanmar’s civil war. Simon Lewis, Katharine Jackson, and Bhargav Acharya, Reuters, November 12
Illegal border trade thrives as Myanmar junta’s crackdown exposed as sham. Locals in Myawaddy say illegal trade with Thailand continues largely unchanged despite junta claims of demolishing dozens of river gates and warehouses along the Moei. Only small structures were removed, while major crossings run by pro-junta Karen armed groups still handle thousands of vehicles daily as the regime seeks to recapture lost customs revenue. The Irrawaddy, November 12
Cambodia
Cambodian PM calls for independent investigation into Thai border shooting. Prime Minister Hun Manet condemned alleged Thai military attacks on Cambodian civilians in Prey Chan village and called for an independent inquiry with foreign experts to determine responsibility and secure justice. He urged an immediate halt to the use of force, ordered protection measures for residents, and reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to the October 26 Kuala Lumpur peace declaration. Khmer Times, November 12
Cambodian PM calls for independent investigation into Thai border shooting. Prime Minister Hun Manet condemned alleged Thai military attacks on Cambodian civilians in Prey Chan village and called for an independent inquiry with foreign experts to determine responsibility and secure justice. He urged an immediate halt to the use of force, ordered protection measures for residents, and reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to the October 26 Kuala Lumpur peace declaration. Khmer Times, November 12
Philippines
Marcos Romualdez not yet off the hook in flood control mess. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez remains under scrutiny in alleged flood control anomalies, citing Senate testimony so far, and warned of arrests as Senator Panfilo Lacson’s Blue Ribbon panel prepares to summon him and other lawmakers. Catherine S. Valente, The Manila Times, November 13
Malaysia
Anwar Cabinet won’t challenge Sabah’s 40% federal revenue share, appeal limited to legal reasoning. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed no challenge to Sabah’s 40% entitlement, stating the appeal targets perceived judicial reasoning errors. He directed immediate talks on the special grant and clarified the entitlement’s separation from other allocations while outlining current definitions of net revenue. Anis Zalani, Malay Mail, November 13
Taiwan
Taiwanese lawmaker ‘wanted’ by China speaks at Berlin parliamentary hearing. Taiwanese legislator Puma Shen, listed as “wanted” by China over alleged secession activities, addressed a Bundestag human rights panel on disinformation by autocratic regimes, including Beijing, Moscow and Budapest. He vowed to defend democratic freedoms despite threats, while Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung said Germany remains safe and noted extradition to China would face strict legal hurdles. Lin Shang-yin and Joseph Yeh, Focus Taiwan, November 13
Shen urges ‘fearless’ stance against China at German parliament. Democratic Progressive Party Legislator Puma Shen calls on Taiwan to stand unafraid with democratic partners after addressing a German Bundestag hearing on disinformation, citing Chinese arrest threats, smooth entry into Germany, and European awareness while warning that many in Taiwan still underestimate information warfare. Fion Khan, Taipei Times, November 13
India
India approves $5.1 billion package for exporters after US tariffs hit. India’s cabinet approved a 450.6 billion rupee ($5.1 billion) export support package including 250.6 billion rupees over six years for trade finance and logistics and a 200 billion rupee credit guarantee scheme for exporters hit by U.S. tariffs of up to 50 % on labour-intensive goods, as New Delhi seeks to maintain competitiveness while pursuing a trade deal with Washington. Manoj Kumar, Reuters, November 12
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan’s parliament passes law against ‘LGBT propaganda’. Kazakhstan’s lower house unanimously approved a bill banning so-called LGBT propaganda in media and online, imposing fines and up to 10 days’ detention for repeated violations. The measure, aligned with similar laws in Russia and Georgia, now goes to the senate and awaits President Tokayev’s signature, amid criticism from rights groups over human rights commitments. Tamara Vaal, Mariya Gordeyeva, and Felix Light, Reuters, November 12
Following Washington trip, Kazakhstan’s president visits Moscow. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev opens a two-day Moscow visit after a Washington summit, assuring Vladimir Putin that ties remain a strategic partnership amid Russia’s waning clout versus the United States, EU and China, while new trade deals worth up to $31 billion proceed alongside a 7.2 % decline in Russian firms operating in Kazakhstan. Eurasianet, November 12
Kazakhstan, Russia Sign Landmark Comprehensive Alliance Declaration. Kazakhstan and Russia signed a declaration elevating their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance, as Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Vladimir Putin pledged deeper cooperation in trade, energy and education. The leaders set a $30 billion trade target after exchanges exceeded $27 billion in 2024, backed nuclear power plant construction with Rosatom and expanded university ties through campuses and programs. Fatima Kemelova, The Astana Times, November 12
Tajikistan
Tajikistan launches state-backed messenger app. Tajikistan has introduced a national messaging app, ORIZ, to enhance digital independence and reduce reliance on foreign platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. Aimed partly at Tajik migrants in Russia, the app stores user data domestically. Critics warn it may compromise privacy, mirroring similar government-led apps in Russia and Kazakhstan. Felix Light, Reuters, November 12
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan launches $50 million of tokens in national stablecoin. Kyrgyzstan issued over 50 million USDKG tokens backed by gold and pegged to the U.S. dollar for cross-border trade. The Finance Ministry plans to expand reserves to $2 billion. Simultaneously, the government shut down all crypto mining operations to conserve electricity amid critically low hydropower levels. Aigerim Turgunbaeva, Reuters, November 12
Kyrgyzstan Independent media outlets branded extremist, tantamount to terrorists. A Bishkek court labeled Temirov Live, Kloop.kg and Ait Ait Dese extremist groups, banning any circulation or liking of their material with jail terms up to seven years, advancing President Sadyr Japarov’s broader clampdown on independent media. Eurasianet, November 12
East Asia
Why Did Asian Countries Give Trump So Much on Trade? Recent agreements with Japan, Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam reveal how Washington turned tariff threats into leverage for investment, regulatory alignment and partial decoupling from China. Tokyo pledged a 550 billion dollar investment framework in the United States backed by public funds, with most profits flowing to American partners and the risk of renewed tariffs if commitments slip. Malaysia accepted clauses to mirror US export controls, restrict dealings with sanctioned entities and forgo digital service taxes while consulting Washington on future digital pacts. Cambodia agreed to match US tariffs on other countries and share investor data, targeting Chinese capital. These concessions contrast sharply with Europe’s tougher stance. Agathe Demarais, Foreign Policy, November 12
America and China share a dangerous addiction. Fentanyl controls sit at the core of the current trade truce, after Donald Trump tied steep tariffs on Chinese exports to Beijing’s role in supplying a synthetic opioid that has killed hundreds of thousands of Americans. China has now promised tighter scrutiny of thirteen chemical precursors, new approval requirements for exports to North America and reminders to firms about legal risks, alongside a bilateral working group. Yet the country’s vast chemicals industry and underground finance networks still enable trafficking, and cooperation has repeatedly stalled whenever wider relations deteriorate. Recent declines in overdose deaths reflect reduced supply, but Beijing treats enforcement as leverage rather than a stable commitment to long term public health goals. The Economist, November 12
China won the first round of the Sino US trade war. A recent deal after the Xi Trump meeting in South Korea cuts US tariffs on Chinese fentanyl related exports, delays expanded American export controls and pauses China’s new jurisdiction over rare earth shipments while both sides suspend higher port fees. The compromise reflects Beijing’s success in weaponizing its near monopoly over rare earth processing. US technology sanctions touch only a narrow set of Chinese firms and barely affect everyday life, but a cutoff of rare earth supplies would quickly disrupt American carmakers, aerospace producers and chip fabrication. Trump, focused on short term economic performance, accepted rollback, giving China the advantage in this opening phase. Yuqing Xing, Nikkei Asia, November 12
How Xi Jinping withholds promotions and power says a lot about China’s new political order. Xi Jinping uses delayed promotions and vacant Politburo seats to keep senior military and civilian officials dependent and uncertain. Recent reshuffles elevate figures like General Zhang Shengmin to powerful military roles while withholding full leadership rank and limiting access to key party bodies, signalling promotion without complete status. In Xinjiang, Chen Xiaojiang gains the top party position yet does not receive a status upgrade, while predecessor Ma Xingrui keeps a seat in the upper tier but loses substantive responsibilities, illustrating soft sidelining. This pattern turns high rank into provisional authority that must be constantly earned through loyalty and performance, reshaping elite politics ahead of the 21st Party Congress. Wang Shengyu, CNA, November 10
China’s Massive Surplus is Everywhere (Yet The IMF Still Has Trouble Seeing It Clearly). Since 2019 China’s exports have jumped while imports barely moved, producing a large surplus concentrated in autos, batteries, and solar equipment. The manufacturing surplus exceeds 2 trillion dollars and weighs heavily on Europe and trading partners. Yet balance of payments data and IMF assessments still show only a modest current account surplus because of statistical changes and a contested income deficit that suppresses the figure. This mismeasurement lets the IMF frame China as suffering only weak domestic demand and recommend monetary easing instead of fiscal expansion that strengthens the social safety net, lifts household spending and curbs further export led global imbalances. Brad W. Setser, Council on Foreign Relations, November 12
A wolf warrior returns: How a single post shook China Japan relations. Soon after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi declared that an emergency in Taiwan could justify collective self-defence, Beijing reacted sharply. Foreign ministry spokespeople questioned Tokyo’s intentions, while Xue Jian, China’s consul general in Osaka, posted on X that a “dirty neck” sticking itself in should be “chopped off,” language Japanese politicians saw as a threat against Takaichi. The remark triggered protests, calls to expel Xue and renewed criticism of China’s “wolf warrior” diplomacy. Although Xue deleted the post and Takaichi later framed her comments as a response to a worst case scenario, the episode underlined the fragility of attempts at stabilizing ties after the leaders’ Gyeongju meeting. Yang Danxu, ThinkChina, November 12
Japan’s equal educational opportunity faces funding dilemma. Japan already achieves almost universal high school enrolment, yet a dual system of public and private institutions leaves large gaps in household costs, especially in big cities where private schools dominate. New reforms will make public high schools tuition free and extend subsidies to all families, covering most tuition at private schools through a higher annual cap. Admission charges, facility fees, textbooks and uniforms still fall on households, so access will not be completely costless. Experience in Osaka and Tokyo shows rising demand for private schools, closures of under-enrolled public campuses and increased junior high entrance competition that benefits cram schools and affluent families, keeping equity questions unresolved. Ryo Konishi, East Asia Forum, November 12
Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia’s path to service-led industrialisation. Slowing trade and more capital-intensive manufacturing push Southeast Asian economies to treat services as a new engine of structural change, from finance to business process outsourcing and digital platforms. The region’s online economy could reach 1 trillion US dollars by 2030, yet digital capacity, skills and infrastructure vary sharply between members. Gaps in research staff, broadband access, data protection and financial technology regulation constrain productivity and cross border scaling. ASEAN should treat science, technology and innovation as a regional priority, deepen workforce training with industry, harmonize rules, integrate digital payments and fund shared innovation networks to build competitive, knowledge-rich service industries. Reni Windari and Lyhong So, East Asia Forum, November 12
Will Vietnam Consolidate Its Top Two Leadership Positions? With the Communist Party of Vietnam preparing for its 14th National Congress, speculation surrounds whether General Secretary To Lam will also assume the state presidency. New Politburo regulations entrench a “five pillars” framework that separates the top party and state roles and elevates the standing member of the Secretariat, signaling institutional resistance to merger. The current division between Lam and President Luong Cuong reflects a delicate balance between public security and military factions and spreads an already heavy workload across leaders. Separate offices can complicate diplomacy yet preserve collective leadership and stability, making consolidation at the congress highly unlikely. Le Hong Hiep, FULCRUM, November 13
South Asia
The Folly of India’s Illiberal Hegemony: China Gains From New Delhi’s Support for South Asian Autocrats. Youth led uprisings in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and the Maldives topple or weaken leaders whose survival depended on Indian backing, exposing resentment of New Delhi’s interference. India has propped up governments with money, diplomacy and security aid while overlooking repression, rigged elections and human rights abuses, confident that Washington will defer to its preferences. That pattern fuels anti Indian movements like “India Out,” discredits the United States and creates openings for China, which courts new regimes with loans, arms and trade. Washington must treat South Asian states as autonomous partners and set democratic baselines for cooperation with India. Muhib Rahman, Foreign Affairs, November 12