China
China set to open security forum amid regional tensions. China is preparing to host the Xiangshan Forum with representatives from over 100 countries amid heightened tensions in the South China Sea and U.S.-China military frictions. Topics will include arms control, global security, and AI warfare. While U.S. attendance is uncertain, Beijing says the forum will promote mutual trust and regional peace. Yew Lun Tian, Reuters, September 15
China vows retaliation for U.S. tariff threats over its Russian oil trade. Beijing warned it would impose countermeasures if its energy trade with Russia is penalized, responding to U.S. calls for G7 nations to levy 50–100% tariffs on China and India. Chinese officials denounced the proposed sanctions as unilateral bullying and defended oil purchases as legitimate. Trade talks with Washington continue in Spain. Alyssa Chen, South China Morning Post, September 15
China’s home prices extend decline, more policy support needed. New home prices in China fell 0.3% in August, matching July’s drop and marking continued weakness since May 2023. Resale prices declined across all city tiers, and property investment dropped 12.9% year-on-year through August. Analysts expect further easing measures, including possible interest rate cuts, as Premier Li Qiang urges stronger efforts to stabilize demand. Liangping Gao, Yukun Zhang, and Ryan Woo, Reuters, September 15
Japan
Trump’s lowered 15% tariff on cars from Japan to take effect Tuesday. The United States will implement a reduced 15% tariff on Japanese automobiles starting Tuesday, down from the 27.5% rate imposed earlier this year under national security grounds. The change is part of a bilateral trade deal that includes Japanese investment in the U.S. and increased American agricultural exports. Kyodo News, September 16
Japan’s opposition parties wary of snap election. Japan’s opposition parties are concerned the ruling LDP may call a snap Lower House election after its leadership vote next month. With little momentum for opposition unity, parties like the CDP and Nippon Ishin oppose early elections, while Sanseito and the DPP see opportunities to grow. The CDP is preparing but remains cautious. The Japan Times, September 15
Koizumi and Takaichi seen running ahead in race for LDP member votes. Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi are leading in early support from party members in the Liberal Democratic Party leadership race. Their national name recognition gives them an edge over declared candidates Toshimitsu Motegi and Takayuki Kobayashi, as well as expected contender Yoshimasa Hayashi. The Japan Times, September 15
South Korea
Tensions escalate between ruling party and judiciary. The presidential office publicly backed calls from the opposition-controlled National Assembly for Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae to resign, intensifying a constitutional standoff over judicial reform. The Democratic Party of Korea seeks to pass a bill expanding the Supreme Court and establishing a special tribunal before Chuseok. The judiciary has pushed back, citing threats to judicial independence. Anna J. Park, The Korea Times, September 15
Lee completes forming Cabinet with new education, gender ministers. President Lee Jae Myung finalized his Cabinet by appointing Choi Kyo-jin as education minister and Won Min-kyong as gender equality minister. Choi replaced a nominee dropped over plagiarism allegations, while Won succeeded a former lawmaker who resigned following workplace abuse claims. Lee also appointed new heads of the Financial Services and Fair Trade Commissions. Yi Wonju, Yonhap News Agency, September 15
Gov’t to check human rights violations in U.S. raid on Korean workers: presidential office. The South Korean government is reviewing whether human rights violations occurred during the detention of 316 Korean workers by U.S. immigration authorities at a battery plant in Georgia. Workers reported overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, shackling, and rough treatment. Seoul has expressed strong regret and continues to coordinate reviews with affected companies. Kim Seung-yeon, Yonhap News Agency, September 15
Thailand
Thailand's PM to tackle baht strength as currency soars. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul pledged to address the baht’s sharp appreciation, following meetings with the Federation of Thai Industries. The currency, up 7.9% this year, is straining exports. His incoming cabinet includes Ekniti Nitithanprapas as finance minister and aims to counter economic headwinds from U.S. tariffs and domestic debt. Kitiphong Thaichareon, Orathai Sriring, Thanadech Staporncharnchai, and Chayut Setboonsarng, Reuters, September 15
Cabinet list will go to King this week. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed that the new cabinet list is finalized and will be submitted for royal endorsement within the week. Once approved, the government will deliver its policy statement to parliament and begin official duties. Anutin also addressed economic priorities, including border trade, the strengthening baht, and stimulus planning. Mongkol Bangprapa, Bangkok Post, September 15
Vietnam
National Assembly deputy arrested, suspended from duties. The National Assembly Standing Committee approved legal proceedings against Trần Văn Thức, a deputy representing Thanh Hóa Province, and suspended his legislative powers. He is accused of undisclosed violations and currently serves as deputy head of the provincial party committee's information and education board. Vietnam News, September 13
Myanmar
Myanmar citizens fear more harassment, violence as election nears. Widespread fear is growing in Myanmar ahead of the junta’s planned elections, with new laws criminalizing dissent, surveillance intensifying through Chinese-backed systems, and the first arrest already made under election security statutes. Citizens report avoiding online engagement, while opposition forces warn of increased resistance. Maung Kavi, The Irrawaddy, September 15
KIA says Myanmar junta retakes two more bases in Bhamo but fighting continues. The Myanmar military recaptured two key bases in Bhamo, Kachin State, including the 236th Infantry and 5014th Tank battalions, but clashes with the Kachin Independence Army continue. The junta claims it now controls all Bhamo bases after 506 clashes. Fighting also persists in Waingmaw and villages near rare-earth mining routes. Myo Pyae, The Irrawaddy, September 15
Cambodia
Hun Sen rejects claims of Thaksin Shinawatra owning assets in Cambodia. Senate President Hun Sen denied reports that former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra owns property in Cambodia or faces asset freezes, calling the allegations false. He emphasized no business dealings with Thaksin or his sister Yingluck and warned against spreading misinformation, urging both Cambodian and Thai authorities to protect bilateral dignity. Khmer Times, September 15
Cambodia rejects Thai accusations of drone deployment along border. Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence dismissed Thai claims of drone incursions as “unfounded and baseless,” warning the allegations distort reality and risk worsening bilateral tensions. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to the July 28 ceasefire and called on Thailand to avoid misinformation and honor agreements under the General and Regional Border Committees. Khmer Times, September 15
Philippines
Philippines’ Marcos says no one will be spared in infrastructure corruption probe. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vowed that an independent commission led by a former Supreme Court justice will investigate all individuals involved in corruption tied to infrastructure spending, especially flawed flood control projects. He flagged ₱545 billion in questionable funds and urged peaceful protests as civil groups plan rallies on September 21. Karen Lema, Reuters, September 15
DOJ confirms P300M ghost projects in Bulacan, launches special task force. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed the existence of three non-existent flood control projects in Bulacan totaling nearly P300 million and formed a special DOJ task force to probe systemic corruption. The National Bureau of Investigation validated the fraud and is preparing charges that may include plunder or malversation. Franco Jose C. Baroña, The Manila Times, September 15
Indonesia
Indonesia unveils economic stimulus package worth almost $1 billion. Indonesia announced a 16.23 trillion rupiah (US$989 million) stimulus plan to support growth through tax relief, food aid, public works, and job creation. Key measures include 10kg of rice for 18.3 million households, a cash-for-work program, extended income tax breaks, and subsidized loans. The government aims to maintain its 5.2% growth target. Stefanno Sulaiman and Ananda Teresia, Reuters, September 15
Malaysia
Malaysia aims for RM230mil in export sales at China-Asean expo. Malaysia is targeting RM230 million in export sales during the 22nd China–ASEAN Expo in Nanning from September 17–21. Led by Matrade, the mission showcases a wide range of sectors including AI, pharmaceuticals, and logistics. Over 130 B2B meetings and site visits aim to boost bilateral ties and elevate Malaysia’s trade profile. Sharen Kaur, New Straits Times, September 16
Taiwan
District court again grants bail to ex-Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je. The Taipei District Court reapproved bail for former Mayor Ko Wen-je and Councilor Ying Hsiao-wei, maintaining amounts of NT$70 million and NT$30 million, respectively. Ko, facing corruption and embezzlement charges in the Core Pacific City case, denies wrongdoing. Prosecutors may appeal again, citing concerns over Ko’s alleged witness contact. Lin Chang-chun, James Thompson and Frances Huang, Focus Taiwan, September 15
Nepal
Nepal picks three with reformist credentials for interim cabinet. Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki appointed Rameshwore Prasad Khanal, Kulman Ghising, and Om Prakash Aryal to lead the finance, energy, and home ministries, respectively, after deadly anti-corruption protests ousted the previous government. Each appointee has a record of reform in public service. Karki, tasked with overseeing elections by March 2026, emphasized rebuilding public institutions. Gopal Sharma, Reuters, September 15
Mongolia
2025 autumn session of the State Great Khural commences with structural reforms. Mongolia’s parliament began its autumn session on September 15 under a revised schedule and reduced the number of standing committees from 11 to 8. Speaker Amarbayasgalan Dashzegve emphasized legislative reform, tax reduction, and urgent changes to the social insurance system. Initial debates focus on the 2026 budget, which includes a MNT 1.3 trillion deficit. Bayarzul.U, MONTSAME, September 15
Kazakhstan
Kazakh government approves action plan to implement President Tokayev’s address. Kazakhstan’s government adopted a National Action Plan to execute President Tokayev’s strategic vision, focusing on AI integration, agribusiness growth, and transit expansion. The plan finances over 200 agribusiness projects, digitizes land allocation, and backs Smart Cargo and air freight systems. Fatima Kemelova, The Astana Times, September 15.
Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan and Qatar build closer ties at Doha summit. Turkmenistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Rashid Meredov met Qatar’s top leaders on the sidelines of the Arab-Islamic Summit, reaffirming political solidarity and exploring cooperation in energy, investment, and transport. Discussions highlighted Turkmenistan’s diversification needs and Qatar’s financial and LNG expertise, with business councils strengthening private-sector links. Jonathan Campion, The Times of Central Asia, September 15
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyz deputies launch initiative to dissolve parliament. A group of MPs in Kyrgyzstan’s Jogorku Kenesh has begun collecting signatures to initiate self-dissolution of parliament, aiming for a vote by late September. While analysts warn of increased political instability and financial burden, proponents cite logistical challenges due to the 2026–2027 election schedule. New elections would use a reformed multi-member district system. Anton Chipegin, The Times of Central Asia, September 15
East Asia
China’s Water Future: Key Decisions, Challenges, and Trade-Offs. China faces acute regional scarcity: the north holds about a tenth of available freshwater yet hosts roughly a third of population and output, driving costly diversions and dams that cannot fully offset deficits as climate shifts intensify drought and floods. Policy has pivoted toward demand restraint through taxes, pricing, conservation targets, rights trading, and digital management, though local execution remains uneven and monitoring weak. Strategic choices must balance agriculture, industry, and urban needs while limiting social costs, relocation, ecological harm, and cross-border tensions. Trade-offs include whether to prioritize food self-reliance, high-tech growth, or stability when supplies tighten. Rebecca Tisherman, Sara Stullken, Sara Hughes, Amanda Kerrigan, Timothy R. Heath, Emily Hoch, Cindy Zheng, Abigail Kessler, RAND Corporation, September 15
Xi Jinping’s Ideology in the Age of AI and What It Means for Chinese Foreign Policy. Ideological enforcement changes from street spectacle to ambient systems embedded in apps, algorithms, and AI, with direct implications for Taiwan policy and state behavior. The “Xuexi Qiangguo” app quantifies loyalty and is encouraged or required across workplaces and schools. In 2024 authorities announced a large language model trained on Xi Jinping Thought for education and Party training, likely to normalize official answers and deepen conformity. These tools cultivate uncompromising nationalism on reunification, now cast as central to the 2049 rejuvenation goal. Near-total control of digital infrastructure enables rapid narrative changes toward confrontation, undermining rational-actor assumptions and raising escalation risk. Konrad Szatters, China Observers, September 16
Southeast Asia
Jakarta’s air pollution crisis invades homes. Daily exposure to fine particulate matter in Jakarta penetrates indoor spaces, where average concentrations of 40.7 micrograms per cubic metre exceed outdoor levels of 37.8 and far surpass the World Health Organization’s 5 guideline; episodic indoor spikes reach forty to one hundred times that standard, driven by hyperlocal sources such as smoking, cooking, and neighbourhood waste burning. Lower-income households endure nearly double the indoor burden because permeable walls, poor insulation, and limited ventilation allow infiltration. Recommended steps include integrated indoor–outdoor monitoring, oversampling vulnerable communities, smoking bans, incentives to adopt electric cooking, strict enforcement against waste burning including Waste Banks, municipal rules for small industries and construction, housing upgrades, and subsidised air purification. Budy Resosudarmo, Yixin Sun, Jeanne Sorin Le Guevel, Daniel Suryadarma, Dil Rahut, Athia Yumna, East Asia Forum, September 15
China is Becoming a Military Power in Southeast Asia in More Ways than People Think. Over fifteen years, China has achieved regional dominance through coercive actions at sea, land reclamation, and expanding blue-water naval operations, while increasing exercises with Southeast Asian partners. Claims to roughly 90 percent of the South China Sea persist despite the 2016 tribunal ruling, and ramming and economic pressure have pushed rivals from contested areas, eroding guarantees of navigation. A quieter change amplifies influence: Chinese arms sales now capture a rising share as U.S. and Russian suppliers recede, embedding interoperability and relationships between Chinese officers and Southeast Asian counterparts and increasing dependence on Chinese platforms. Joint drills deepen defense ties regionwide. Joshua Kurlantzick, and Annabel Richter, Council on Foreign Relations, September 15
Myanmar’s Fake Election Is a Trap, Not a Transition. On December 28, 2025 the junta plans a first election phase designed to entrench rule, not enable change. After ending the state of emergency and rebranding as the State Security and Peace Commission on July 31, authorities imposed martial law in 63 townships within hours. Oversight is hollow: a reconstituted Union Election Commission and SAC Law No. 48/2025 criminalize dissent, including “no-vote” campaigns, and build surveillance committees spanning ministries and Myanmar Post and Telecommunications. A Cyber Security Law effective July 30 bans VPNs and extends monitoring beyond borders. The opposition’s silence and reliance on the 2020 mandate deepen its bind, while the regime seeks recognition. China and India back the polls; ASEAN’s credibility hinges on withholding endorsement and insisting on rights-respecting standards. Surachanee Sriyai, and Su Myat Thwe, FULCRUM, September 15