Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is scheduled to embark on a four-day visit to Vietnam and the Philippines from April 27 to April 30, as announced by the government. This trip, occurring from April 27-30, is part of Japan's efforts to bolster regional ties in Southeast Asia amid global economic uncertainties triggered by U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policies.

The visit follows a recent tour of the region by Chinese President Xi Jinping, indicating a strategic move by Japan to reinforce its presence and partnerships in Southeast Asia. The focus of Ishiba's trip will be on enhancing security and economic relations with these countries, contributing to maintaining a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.

The United Kingdom has launched its largest naval deployment of 2025 as HMS Prince of Wales, the Royal Navy's flagship aircraft carrier, departed Portsmouth on April 22 to lead Carrier Strike Group 25 (CSG25) on an eight-month mission named Operation Highmast. The deployment will span from the Atlantic to the Indo-Pacific, with exercises and operations involving allied forces in the Mediterranean, Middle East, Southeast Asia, Japan, and Australia.

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Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, has been actively engaged in multiple high-level meetings and events across Southeast Asia and with international partners. On April 22, 2025, Dr. Kao attended the ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 flag-off ceremony in Jakarta, where he met with Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Rural and Regional Development, Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi. The same day, he received Thai Trade Representative Umesh Pandey at the ASEAN Secretariat to discuss regional and global trade issues, including the impact of the new U.S. tariff policy. Dr. Kao also met with Estonia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Margus Tsahkna, to explore ways to advance ASEAN-Estonia relations, emphasizing the importance of a strong EU-ASEAN partnership amid current geopolitical challenges. On April 24, 2025, Dr. Kao participated in the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Meeting in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, where he delivered remarks on the ASCC's strategic directions aimed at fostering a resilient, inclusive, dynamic, and sustainable ASEAN. Prior to the meeting, he held discussions with Malaysia's ASCC Council Chair 2025 and Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture, Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, as well as with the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg. Additionally, Thailand is pursuing efforts to increase intra-ASEAN trade from 21.5% to 35%, a target already endorsed by ASEAN. Separately, in Moldova, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, made her first official visit to Chișinău, where she was welcomed by Mihai Popsoi, highlighting the EU’s continued support for Moldova’s European integration, resilience, and security.

Tesla has launched new promotions in China, including a five-year, zero-interest financing incentive for the updated Model Y. The offer is available to customers who take delivery before June 30, with a minimum down payment of RMB 79,900 (approximately USD 11,000) and monthly payments as low as RMB 3,060. The Model Y is available in rear-wheel-drive and long-range all-wheel-drive versions, starting at RMB 263,500 and RMB 313,500, respectively.

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The China-linked advanced persistent threat (APT) group known as Lotus Panda conducted cyberattacks across Southeast Asia from August 2024 to February 2025, targeting government agencies, telecommunications, and air traffic sectors. The group employed new hacking tools, including browser stealers that exfiltrated Chrome data and hijacked legitimate software to facilitate their operations. Separately, a new malware strain targeting Docker containers has been identified, shifting from traditional cryptojacking to exploiting the Web3 network Teneo. This malware hijacks Docker to run fake nodes that generate TENEO tokens by sending counterfeit heartbeat signals. Over 325 downloads of this malware have been recorded from Docker Hub. Additionally, the Billbug espionage group has deployed new cyber tools in Southeast Asia, indicating increased cyber operations in the region.

The Indonesian Navy has inducted its second Bung Karno-class corvette into service, further expanding its domestic naval capabilities. Concurrently, high-level discussions between Tokyo and Jakarta are ongoing regarding the potential joint development and production of advanced frigates for Indonesia. These talks emphasize a growing defense partnership between Indonesia and Japan, focusing on enhancing maritime security and naval strength in Southeast Asia. The collaboration involves key stakeholders, including Indonesia's top envoy and defense officials, and highlights interest in Japan's Mogami-class frigate technology. This development aligns with Indonesia's broader efforts to modernize its naval fleet through both indigenous production and international cooperation.

The recent earthquake in Myanmar has not directly damaged the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project but poses security risks and nationwide instability that could delay its progress. Key infrastructure such as the China-Myanmar pipelines and the Alpha Cement plant in Madaya Township, vital for China's energy and industrial objectives, face disruptions due to the quake. Additionally, India's India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, which passes through Mandalay and Sagaing, has likely sustained damage, complicating economic integration efforts with India. The earthquake has heightened concerns beyond Southeast Asia, with similar fault lines in Africa posing risks amid low preparedness. The disaster also underscores Myanmar's precarious position internationally, as ongoing internal conflicts and isolation push it closer to China, while various ethnic armed organizations continue to engage and contest Chinese influence in different sectors.

China's domestically developed C909 passenger jet has commenced commercial operations in Vietnam, marking an expansion of its presence in Southeast Asia. Two C909 aircraft, wet leased by Chengdu Airlines to Vietnam's Vietjet Air, began service on the Hanoi-Con Dao-Ho Chi Minh City route. To date, the C909 has been utilized by three Southeast Asian airlines—Indonesia's Lion Air, Laos Airlines, and Vietjet Air—across 15 routes, transporting over 250,000 passengers. Meanwhile, China has also showcased advancements in military aviation, including new footage of the J-36, a so-called 6th-generation stealth fighter jet. The J-36 design team recently unveiled an aircraft carrier landing system tailored for this stealth jet. Additionally, China is progressing in its aviation ambitions with the upcoming maiden flight of the large domestic aircraft C929 expected by 2030 and plans for a supersonic jet project targeting 2049.

China reported a significant increase in cross-border renminbi (RMB) transactions with Cambodia and Malaysia during the first quarter of 2025, according to the People's Bank of China. The transactions with Cambodia reached 5 billion yuan, marking a 45% year-on-year increase, while those with Malaysia totaled 102 billion yuan, up by 27% from the previous year. Of the total transactions with Cambodia, 1.3 billion yuan were for trade in goods, an increase of 23%.

In the same period, China's trade with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) rose to $233 billion, a 7.1% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024. This growth underscores the strengthening economic ties between China and Southeast Asia.

Specifically, China-Cambodia trade hit a record high of 33.33 billion yuan ($4.53 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, with a 13.1% year-on-year increase. This surge outpaced the overall trade growth with ASEAN countries by 6 percentage points.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for the early signing of an upgraded protocol for the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area. This initiative aims to enhance trade relations and economic cooperation between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The request was reported by Xinhua, indicating a continued focus on strengthening regional trade ties.

In response to escalating tensions from the U.S.-China trade war initiated by President Donald Trump's tariff plans, China is prioritizing the establishment of 'islands of stability' in Southeast Asia and neighboring countries. Prominent Chinese scholars emphasize that this diplomatic strategy aims to mitigate the economic uncertainty caused by U.S. tariffs. China's approach is framed as a means to position itself as a pillar of stability in a fragmented global economy, benefiting regions such as the EU, ASEAN, Africa, and Latin America through long-term trade cooperation. As the trade conflict intensifies, Beijing is focusing on its immediate periphery to bolster both economic and national security.

A recent study has revealed that over three million children worldwide lost their lives in 2022 due to infections resistant to antibiotics. The study highlights that nearly half of these antimicrobial resistance (AMR)-related deaths occurred among children in Southeast Asia and Africa. This alarming statistic underscores the growing threat posed by drug-resistant infections, which have become a significant concern for global health authorities. The findings were reported by various sources, including the World Health Organization, emphasizing the urgent need for improved strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance and protect vulnerable populations.

A recent survey indicates that the European Union (EU) is viewed as Southeast Asia's preferred 'middle power' between the United States and China, although Japan is gaining ground. The survey, which reflects the opinions of Southeast Asian leaders, shows a resurgence of trust in the EU following a decline in confidence last year. Notably, 49% of Finnish respondents and 36% of EU citizens believe that enhancing defense and security is crucial for strengthening the EU's global position, as highlighted in the latest Eurobarometer results. This renewed confidence in the EU suggests a shift in geopolitical perceptions within the region.

Irene and Seulgi of the K-pop group Red Velvet are set to launch their 2025 Asia tour titled 'Balance' in mid-June, as announced by their label, SM Entertainment. The tour will include performances in several cities across Asia, including Singapore, Bangkok, and Macau. Further details regarding specific dates and additional cities are expected to be released soon.

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, has been actively participating in the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, where he attended multiple pavilion launches and meetings. On April 12, he attended the Cambodia Pavilion launch, themed 'Saving Lives,' officiated by H.E. Samheng Bora. He also participated in a reception for the expo's opening, attended by various dignitaries. On April 13, Dr. Kao launched the Philippines Pavilion, which aims to promote cultural exchange and business cooperation. He also officiated the ASEAN Pavilion, themed 'Building Bridges,' showcasing ASEAN's multifaceted work. Throughout the event, he held meetings with various officials, including Mr. Rudy Khaw, CEO of AirAsia, and H.E. KOGA Yuichiro, Japan's State Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, discussing regional connectivity and economic relations. Dr. Kao concluded his engagements with a visit to the Japan Pavilion, themed 'Between Lives,' which illustrates transformative cycles in nature and society. His participation underscores ASEAN's commitment to enhancing social, cultural, and economic cooperation in the region.

Japanese drugstore chains Welcia Holdings and Tsuruha Holdings have agreed to merge by December 2025, aiming to enhance their market position and expand operations in the ASEAN region. This merger is part of a broader trend among Japanese drugstores to consolidate in order to become leaders in the Asian market. The agreement signals a strategic move to build domestic capacity in new modalities within the pharmaceutical sector, as reported by various sources including NHK and Reuters Japan.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has decided not to implement retaliatory measures against the United States regarding its recent tariff policies. In a joint statement released by ASEAN Economic Ministers following their meeting in Malaysia on April 10, they expressed their commitment to maintaining dialogue with the U.S. to address the tariff issues. The ministers reaffirmed the importance of the long-standing partnership between ASEAN and the U.S., highlighting its role in promoting regional peace, stability, and economic growth. They also cautioned that the U.S.'s unilateral tariff strategy could pose risks to global economic stability and disrupt international supply chains.

The 8th Meeting of the Joint Committee on the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) concluded in New Delhi, India. The five-day meeting was co-chaired by Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and Dr. Sugumari S. Shanmugam, Deputy Co-Chair. The primary objective of the committee was to advance the ongoing review of AITIGA, focusing on modernizing the agreement to enhance its effectiveness, user-friendliness, and overall facilitation of trade between ASEAN and India. This meeting follows the commencement of the 15th ASEAN-Australia Joint Cooperation Committee Meeting in Jakarta, which aims to review cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is scheduled to embark on a four-day visit to Vietnam and the Philippines from April 27 to April 30, as announced by the government. This trip, occurring from April 27-30, is part of Japan's efforts to bolster regional ties in Southeast Asia amid global economic uncertainties triggered by U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policies.

The visit follows a recent tour of the region by Chinese President Xi Jinping, indicating a strategic move by Japan to reinforce its presence and partnerships in Southeast Asia. The focus of Ishiba's trip will be on enhancing security and economic relations with these countries, contributing to maintaining a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.

The United Kingdom has launched its largest naval deployment of 2025 as HMS Prince of Wales, the Royal Navy's flagship aircraft carrier, departed Portsmouth on April 22 to lead Carrier Strike Group 25 (CSG25) on an eight-month mission named Operation Highmast. The deployment will span from the Atlantic to the Indo-Pacific, with exercises and operations involving allied forces in the Mediterranean, Middle East, Southeast Asia, Japan, and Australia.

Read more

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, has been actively engaged in multiple high-level meetings and events across Southeast Asia and with international partners. On April 22, 2025, Dr. Kao attended the ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 flag-off ceremony in Jakarta, where he met with Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Rural and Regional Development, Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi. The same day, he received Thai Trade Representative Umesh Pandey at the ASEAN Secretariat to discuss regional and global trade issues, including the impact of the new U.S. tariff policy. Dr. Kao also met with Estonia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Margus Tsahkna, to explore ways to advance ASEAN-Estonia relations, emphasizing the importance of a strong EU-ASEAN partnership amid current geopolitical challenges. On April 24, 2025, Dr. Kao participated in the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Meeting in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, where he delivered remarks on the ASCC's strategic directions aimed at fostering a resilient, inclusive, dynamic, and sustainable ASEAN. Prior to the meeting, he held discussions with Malaysia's ASCC Council Chair 2025 and Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture, Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, as well as with the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg. Additionally, Thailand is pursuing efforts to increase intra-ASEAN trade from 21.5% to 35%, a target already endorsed by ASEAN. Separately, in Moldova, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, made her first official visit to Chișinău, where she was welcomed by Mihai Popsoi, highlighting the EU’s continued support for Moldova’s European integration, resilience, and security.

Tesla has launched new promotions in China, including a five-year, zero-interest financing incentive for the updated Model Y. The offer is available to customers who take delivery before June 30, with a minimum down payment of RMB 79,900 (approximately USD 11,000) and monthly payments as low as RMB 3,060. The Model Y is available in rear-wheel-drive and long-range all-wheel-drive versions, starting at RMB 263,500 and RMB 313,500, respectively.

Read more

The China-linked advanced persistent threat (APT) group known as Lotus Panda conducted cyberattacks across Southeast Asia from August 2024 to February 2025, targeting government agencies, telecommunications, and air traffic sectors. The group employed new hacking tools, including browser stealers that exfiltrated Chrome data and hijacked legitimate software to facilitate their operations. Separately, a new malware strain targeting Docker containers has been identified, shifting from traditional cryptojacking to exploiting the Web3 network Teneo. This malware hijacks Docker to run fake nodes that generate TENEO tokens by sending counterfeit heartbeat signals. Over 325 downloads of this malware have been recorded from Docker Hub. Additionally, the Billbug espionage group has deployed new cyber tools in Southeast Asia, indicating increased cyber operations in the region.

The Indonesian Navy has inducted its second Bung Karno-class corvette into service, further expanding its domestic naval capabilities. Concurrently, high-level discussions between Tokyo and Jakarta are ongoing regarding the potential joint development and production of advanced frigates for Indonesia. These talks emphasize a growing defense partnership between Indonesia and Japan, focusing on enhancing maritime security and naval strength in Southeast Asia. The collaboration involves key stakeholders, including Indonesia's top envoy and defense officials, and highlights interest in Japan's Mogami-class frigate technology. This development aligns with Indonesia's broader efforts to modernize its naval fleet through both indigenous production and international cooperation.

The recent earthquake in Myanmar has not directly damaged the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project but poses security risks and nationwide instability that could delay its progress. Key infrastructure such as the China-Myanmar pipelines and the Alpha Cement plant in Madaya Township, vital for China's energy and industrial objectives, face disruptions due to the quake. Additionally, India's India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, which passes through Mandalay and Sagaing, has likely sustained damage, complicating economic integration efforts with India. The earthquake has heightened concerns beyond Southeast Asia, with similar fault lines in Africa posing risks amid low preparedness. The disaster also underscores Myanmar's precarious position internationally, as ongoing internal conflicts and isolation push it closer to China, while various ethnic armed organizations continue to engage and contest Chinese influence in different sectors.

China's domestically developed C909 passenger jet has commenced commercial operations in Vietnam, marking an expansion of its presence in Southeast Asia. Two C909 aircraft, wet leased by Chengdu Airlines to Vietnam's Vietjet Air, began service on the Hanoi-Con Dao-Ho Chi Minh City route. To date, the C909 has been utilized by three Southeast Asian airlines—Indonesia's Lion Air, Laos Airlines, and Vietjet Air—across 15 routes, transporting over 250,000 passengers. Meanwhile, China has also showcased advancements in military aviation, including new footage of the J-36, a so-called 6th-generation stealth fighter jet. The J-36 design team recently unveiled an aircraft carrier landing system tailored for this stealth jet. Additionally, China is progressing in its aviation ambitions with the upcoming maiden flight of the large domestic aircraft C929 expected by 2030 and plans for a supersonic jet project targeting 2049.

China reported a significant increase in cross-border renminbi (RMB) transactions with Cambodia and Malaysia during the first quarter of 2025, according to the People's Bank of China. The transactions with Cambodia reached 5 billion yuan, marking a 45% year-on-year increase, while those with Malaysia totaled 102 billion yuan, up by 27% from the previous year. Of the total transactions with Cambodia, 1.3 billion yuan were for trade in goods, an increase of 23%.

In the same period, China's trade with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) rose to $233 billion, a 7.1% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024. This growth underscores the strengthening economic ties between China and Southeast Asia.

Specifically, China-Cambodia trade hit a record high of 33.33 billion yuan ($4.53 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, with a 13.1% year-on-year increase. This surge outpaced the overall trade growth with ASEAN countries by 6 percentage points.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for the early signing of an upgraded protocol for the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area. This initiative aims to enhance trade relations and economic cooperation between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The request was reported by Xinhua, indicating a continued focus on strengthening regional trade ties.

In response to escalating tensions from the U.S.-China trade war initiated by President Donald Trump's tariff plans, China is prioritizing the establishment of 'islands of stability' in Southeast Asia and neighboring countries. Prominent Chinese scholars emphasize that this diplomatic strategy aims to mitigate the economic uncertainty caused by U.S. tariffs. China's approach is framed as a means to position itself as a pillar of stability in a fragmented global economy, benefiting regions such as the EU, ASEAN, Africa, and Latin America through long-term trade cooperation. As the trade conflict intensifies, Beijing is focusing on its immediate periphery to bolster both economic and national security.

A recent study has revealed that over three million children worldwide lost their lives in 2022 due to infections resistant to antibiotics. The study highlights that nearly half of these antimicrobial resistance (AMR)-related deaths occurred among children in Southeast Asia and Africa. This alarming statistic underscores the growing threat posed by drug-resistant infections, which have become a significant concern for global health authorities. The findings were reported by various sources, including the World Health Organization, emphasizing the urgent need for improved strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance and protect vulnerable populations.

A recent survey indicates that the European Union (EU) is viewed as Southeast Asia's preferred 'middle power' between the United States and China, although Japan is gaining ground. The survey, which reflects the opinions of Southeast Asian leaders, shows a resurgence of trust in the EU following a decline in confidence last year. Notably, 49% of Finnish respondents and 36% of EU citizens believe that enhancing defense and security is crucial for strengthening the EU's global position, as highlighted in the latest Eurobarometer results. This renewed confidence in the EU suggests a shift in geopolitical perceptions within the region.

Irene and Seulgi of the K-pop group Red Velvet are set to launch their 2025 Asia tour titled 'Balance' in mid-June, as announced by their label, SM Entertainment. The tour will include performances in several cities across Asia, including Singapore, Bangkok, and Macau. Further details regarding specific dates and additional cities are expected to be released soon.

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, has been actively participating in the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, where he attended multiple pavilion launches and meetings. On April 12, he attended the Cambodia Pavilion launch, themed 'Saving Lives,' officiated by H.E. Samheng Bora. He also participated in a reception for the expo's opening, attended by various dignitaries. On April 13, Dr. Kao launched the Philippines Pavilion, which aims to promote cultural exchange and business cooperation. He also officiated the ASEAN Pavilion, themed 'Building Bridges,' showcasing ASEAN's multifaceted work. Throughout the event, he held meetings with various officials, including Mr. Rudy Khaw, CEO of AirAsia, and H.E. KOGA Yuichiro, Japan's State Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, discussing regional connectivity and economic relations. Dr. Kao concluded his engagements with a visit to the Japan Pavilion, themed 'Between Lives,' which illustrates transformative cycles in nature and society. His participation underscores ASEAN's commitment to enhancing social, cultural, and economic cooperation in the region.

Japanese drugstore chains Welcia Holdings and Tsuruha Holdings have agreed to merge by December 2025, aiming to enhance their market position and expand operations in the ASEAN region. This merger is part of a broader trend among Japanese drugstores to consolidate in order to become leaders in the Asian market. The agreement signals a strategic move to build domestic capacity in new modalities within the pharmaceutical sector, as reported by various sources including NHK and Reuters Japan.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has decided not to implement retaliatory measures against the United States regarding its recent tariff policies. In a joint statement released by ASEAN Economic Ministers following their meeting in Malaysia on April 10, they expressed their commitment to maintaining dialogue with the U.S. to address the tariff issues. The ministers reaffirmed the importance of the long-standing partnership between ASEAN and the U.S., highlighting its role in promoting regional peace, stability, and economic growth. They also cautioned that the U.S.'s unilateral tariff strategy could pose risks to global economic stability and disrupt international supply chains.

The 8th Meeting of the Joint Committee on the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) concluded in New Delhi, India. The five-day meeting was co-chaired by Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and Dr. Sugumari S. Shanmugam, Deputy Co-Chair. The primary objective of the committee was to advance the ongoing review of AITIGA, focusing on modernizing the agreement to enhance its effectiveness, user-friendliness, and overall facilitation of trade between ASEAN and India. This meeting follows the commencement of the 15th ASEAN-Australia Joint Cooperation Committee Meeting in Jakarta, which aims to review cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.