🇰🇵 North Korea Tests Solid-Fuel ICBM Engine
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw a test of a high-thrust solid-fuel engine designed for intercontinental ballistic missiles. State media reported that Kim described the development as elevating the country's strategic military power to its highest level.
Analysts assess the engine as potentially intended for the Hwasong-20 missile, a system considered capable of striking targets anywhere on the globe. The test marks a continued advancement in North Korea's solid-fuel ICBM program.
Solid-fuel propulsion offers operational advantages over liquid-fuel systems, including faster launch preparation and greater mobility. The test raises the possibility of a subsequent ICBM launch, according to analysts cited in the report.
#NorthKorea
@asianomics
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw a test of a high-thrust solid-fuel engine designed for intercontinental ballistic missiles. State media reported that Kim described the development as elevating the country's strategic military power to its highest level.
Analysts assess the engine as potentially intended for the Hwasong-20 missile, a system considered capable of striking targets anywhere on the globe. The test marks a continued advancement in North Korea's solid-fuel ICBM program.
Solid-fuel propulsion offers operational advantages over liquid-fuel systems, including faster launch preparation and greater mobility. The test raises the possibility of a subsequent ICBM launch, according to analysts cited in the report.
#NorthKorea
@asianomics
South China Morning Post
North Korea tests powerful missile engine. Will an ICBM launch follow?
The engine may be used in the Hwasong-20, which analysts say is capable of hitting targets around the globe.
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🇨🇳🇺🇸 China Summons US Envoy Over HK Password Rules
China's Foreign Ministry Office in Hong Kong summoned US Consul General Julie Eadeh on March 27 after the US consulate issued a security alert warning that refusing to provide police with device passwords or decryption access is now a criminal offence in Hong Kong. Commissioner Cui Jianchun conducted the meeting and called on the US to cease all interference in Hong Kong and Beijing's internal affairs.
The consulate's alert, issued March 26, noted that the new rules — implemented March 23 — apply to all individuals including US citizens, and that Hong Kong authorities may also retain personal devices as evidence in national security cases. Suspects who refuse to surrender passwords face up to one year in prison.
The Hong Kong government responded on March 27, clarifying that police require legal authorisation before demanding a password and cannot randomly request such information from ordinary citizens on the street. The government also expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as misleading characterisations of the rules by foreign organisations and media.
#China #USA
@asianomics
China's Foreign Ministry Office in Hong Kong summoned US Consul General Julie Eadeh on March 27 after the US consulate issued a security alert warning that refusing to provide police with device passwords or decryption access is now a criminal offence in Hong Kong. Commissioner Cui Jianchun conducted the meeting and called on the US to cease all interference in Hong Kong and Beijing's internal affairs.
The consulate's alert, issued March 26, noted that the new rules — implemented March 23 — apply to all individuals including US citizens, and that Hong Kong authorities may also retain personal devices as evidence in national security cases. Suspects who refuse to surrender passwords face up to one year in prison.
The Hong Kong government responded on March 27, clarifying that police require legal authorisation before demanding a password and cannot randomly request such information from ordinary citizens on the street. The government also expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as misleading characterisations of the rules by foreign organisations and media.
#China #USA
@asianomics
The Straits Times
China summons US envoy to Hong Kong over alert on security law changes
China urged the US to immediately cease all interference in Hong Kong and Beijing’s internal affairs. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.
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🇯🇵🇨🇳 Japan Police Search Base After Embassy Intrusion
Japanese police conducted a search of the Ebino base in Miyazaki Prefecture, belonging to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, on suspicion of unlawful entry into a building. The search followed the arrest of Third Lieutenant Murata Kodai, 23, who breached the Chinese Embassy compound in Tokyo's Minato Ward on March 24.
Murata told investigators he hid in shrubbery inside the compound after climbing the wall, then approached embassy staff on his own initiative. Police also recovered a knife from the shrubbery that Murata is suspected of having brought onto the premises.
Murata stated he wished to convey his views to the ambassador, and said he intended to take his own life if refused. He also expressed a desire for China to moderate its firm rhetoric toward Japan. Investigators confirmed he had traveled from the base to Tokyo by highway bus and shinkansen the day before the incident, spent the night at an internet cafe, and purchased the knife at a large retail store in the city.
#Japan #China
@asianomics
Japanese police conducted a search of the Ebino base in Miyazaki Prefecture, belonging to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, on suspicion of unlawful entry into a building. The search followed the arrest of Third Lieutenant Murata Kodai, 23, who breached the Chinese Embassy compound in Tokyo's Minato Ward on March 24.
Murata told investigators he hid in shrubbery inside the compound after climbing the wall, then approached embassy staff on his own initiative. Police also recovered a knife from the shrubbery that Murata is suspected of having brought onto the premises.
Murata stated he wished to convey his views to the ambassador, and said he intended to take his own life if refused. He also expressed a desire for China to moderate its firm rhetoric toward Japan. Investigators confirmed he had traveled from the base to Tokyo by highway bus and shinkansen the day before the incident, spent the night at an internet cafe, and purchased the knife at a large retail store in the city.
#Japan #China
@asianomics
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🇨🇳🇰🇵 Air China Resumes Beijing-Pyongyang Passenger Flights
Air China restored its Beijing-Pyongyang route on March 30, 2026, ending a six-year suspension. The service had been halted during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The resumption is described as a sign of warming economic relations between China and North Korea.
No further details on flight frequency or passenger capacity were provided in the report.
#China #NorthKorea
@asianomics
Air China restored its Beijing-Pyongyang route on March 30, 2026, ending a six-year suspension. The service had been halted during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The resumption is described as a sign of warming economic relations between China and North Korea.
No further details on flight frequency or passenger capacity were provided in the report.
#China #NorthKorea
@asianomics
South China Morning Post
Air China resumes direct flights to Pyongyang
Read more here: https://sc.mp/41d9d5
Air China resumed its Beijing-Pyongyang route after a six-year hiatus on March 30, 2026. Resumption of the service, which was suspended during the Covid-19…
Air China resumed its Beijing-Pyongyang route after a six-year hiatus on March 30, 2026. Resumption of the service, which was suspended during the Covid-19…
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🇹🇼🇨🇳 Taiwan Probes 11 Chinese Firms Over Tech Poaching
Taiwan's Investigation Bureau announced that 11 Chinese firms are under investigation for allegedly recruiting Taiwanese semiconductor and high-tech engineers without government approval. More than 185 agents conducted searches across 49 locations and questioned 90 people this month in a coordinated operation.
The bureau said the companies concealed their Chinese ownership by operating through foreign-funded shell firms or by establishing unauthorized offices in Taiwan to recruit talent and conduct business. Among those under investigation are Huaqin Technology, Anker Innovations, Circuit Fabology Microelectronics Equipment, Yangzhou Yangjie Electronic Technology, and chip designer SG Micro.
Taiwanese law bars Chinese investment in parts of the semiconductor supply chain, including chip design, and mandates reviews for other areas such as chip packaging. A task force established in late 2020 has handled more than 100 similar cases involving suspected illegal recruitment and business activity by Chinese companies.
#Taiwan #China
@asianomics
Taiwan's Investigation Bureau announced that 11 Chinese firms are under investigation for allegedly recruiting Taiwanese semiconductor and high-tech engineers without government approval. More than 185 agents conducted searches across 49 locations and questioned 90 people this month in a coordinated operation.
The bureau said the companies concealed their Chinese ownership by operating through foreign-funded shell firms or by establishing unauthorized offices in Taiwan to recruit talent and conduct business. Among those under investigation are Huaqin Technology, Anker Innovations, Circuit Fabology Microelectronics Equipment, Yangzhou Yangjie Electronic Technology, and chip designer SG Micro.
Taiwanese law bars Chinese investment in parts of the semiconductor supply chain, including chip design, and mandates reviews for other areas such as chip packaging. A task force established in late 2020 has handled more than 100 similar cases involving suspected illegal recruitment and business activity by Chinese companies.
#Taiwan #China
@asianomics
Reuters
Taiwan probes 11 Chinese firms for illegal poaching of tech talent
Taiwan said on Monday 11 Chinese firms are being investigated for alleged illegal poaching of semiconductor and other high‑tech talent, stepping up efforts to curb technology outflows amid rising geopolitical tensions with Beijing.
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🇯🇵🇨🇳 Japan Demands China Retract Lawmaker Sanctions
Japan's government has called on China to immediately withdraw sanctions imposed on Keiji Furuya, a House of Representatives member who leads a cross-party group focused on promoting Tokyo-Taipei relations. Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki made the demand at a press conference on Monday.
Ozaki described the measures as unilateral actions appearing intended to pressure those holding differing views on Taiwan, and characterized them as absolutely unacceptable and extremely regrettable.
Furuya heads the parliamentary group dedicated to strengthening relations between Japan and Taiwan. China has not publicly responded to Tokyo's demand as of the time of reporting.
#Japan #China
@asianomics
Japan's government has called on China to immediately withdraw sanctions imposed on Keiji Furuya, a House of Representatives member who leads a cross-party group focused on promoting Tokyo-Taipei relations. Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki made the demand at a press conference on Monday.
Ozaki described the measures as unilateral actions appearing intended to pressure those holding differing views on Taiwan, and characterized them as absolutely unacceptable and extremely regrettable.
Furuya heads the parliamentary group dedicated to strengthening relations between Japan and Taiwan. China has not publicly responded to Tokyo's demand as of the time of reporting.
#Japan #China
@asianomics
Japan Wire by Kyodo News
China sanctions Japanese lawmaker Furuya over Taiwan visits
China on Monday imposed sanctions on Keiji Furuya, the head of a cross-party Japanese lawmakers' group dedicated to strengthening Tokyo-Taipei relations, in protest at a group tour he led earlier this month and other visits to Taiwan in the past.
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🇺🇸🇹🇼 US Lawmakers Push Taiwan's Stalled Defence Budget
A delegation of four US lawmakers arrived in Taipei on March 30, urging Taiwan's Parliament to approve President Lai Ching-te's special defence budget of US$40 billion, which remains stalled in the opposition-controlled legislature. Republican Senator John Curtis, leading the delegation, told reporters after meeting Lai that US congressional colleagues were watching the budget vote closely.
Taiwan's Deputy Defence Minister Hsu Szu-chien separately stated that expedited US arms sales would assist efforts to secure parliamentary funding for the defence package. Taiwan's Parliament has already cleared four US arms deals worth approximately US$9 billion, and a second US sale package worth around US$14 billion is in preparation.
Democrat Jeanne Shaheen, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, cited increased military activity around Taiwan as raising the risk of miscalculation. China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning reiterated opposition to official exchanges between the US and Taiwan, stating the US should take concrete actions to safeguard stability in the Taiwan Strait.
#USA #Taiwan #China
@asianomics
A delegation of four US lawmakers arrived in Taipei on March 30, urging Taiwan's Parliament to approve President Lai Ching-te's special defence budget of US$40 billion, which remains stalled in the opposition-controlled legislature. Republican Senator John Curtis, leading the delegation, told reporters after meeting Lai that US congressional colleagues were watching the budget vote closely.
Taiwan's Deputy Defence Minister Hsu Szu-chien separately stated that expedited US arms sales would assist efforts to secure parliamentary funding for the defence package. Taiwan's Parliament has already cleared four US arms deals worth approximately US$9 billion, and a second US sale package worth around US$14 billion is in preparation.
Democrat Jeanne Shaheen, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, cited increased military activity around Taiwan as raising the risk of miscalculation. China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning reiterated opposition to official exchanges between the US and Taiwan, stating the US should take concrete actions to safeguard stability in the Taiwan Strait.
#USA #Taiwan #China
@asianomics
The Straits Times
On Taipei visit, US lawmakers urge Taiwan to pass stalled $51.5 billion defence budget
The visit comes at a time when Beijing has ramped up military and political pressure on the island. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.
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🇲🇲 Myanmar Junta Chief Nominated for Presidency
Myanmar's Senior General Min Aung Hlaing was nominated in the Lower House of Parliament as a candidate for vice-president on March 30, following a heavily restricted election in which pro-military parties won a landslide. Three candidates will be put forward, with one elected president; analysts consider his defeat inconceivable.
Min Aung Hlaing mounted a coup five years ago, jailing Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi and triggering a civil war that has killed an estimated 90,000 people on all sides, according to Armed Conflict Location & Event Data. The election that preceded the nomination was widely condemned; parties that won 90 per cent of seats in the 2020 polls, including Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy, were barred from participating after being dissolved.
A former spymaster described as Min Aung Hlaing's close associate replaced him as military chief, securing a loyal ally at the head of the armed forces. The International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor is seeking Min Aung Hlaing's arrest for crimes against humanity related to the 2017 military crackdown on the Rohingya minority.
#Myanmar
@asianomics
Myanmar's Senior General Min Aung Hlaing was nominated in the Lower House of Parliament as a candidate for vice-president on March 30, following a heavily restricted election in which pro-military parties won a landslide. Three candidates will be put forward, with one elected president; analysts consider his defeat inconceivable.
Min Aung Hlaing mounted a coup five years ago, jailing Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi and triggering a civil war that has killed an estimated 90,000 people on all sides, according to Armed Conflict Location & Event Data. The election that preceded the nomination was widely condemned; parties that won 90 per cent of seats in the 2020 polls, including Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy, were barred from participating after being dissolved.
A former spymaster described as Min Aung Hlaing's close associate replaced him as military chief, securing a loyal ally at the head of the armed forces. The International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor is seeking Min Aung Hlaing's arrest for crimes against humanity related to the 2017 military crackdown on the Rohingya minority.
#Myanmar
@asianomics
The Straits Times
General, coup leader, soon to be president: Myanmar’s Min Aung Hlaing
He spent a decade jostling with civilian leaders before mounting his coup five years ago. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.
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🇵🇰🇦🇫 Pakistan, Afghanistan Resume Fire Despite Ceasefire
Pakistan and Afghanistan exchanged artillery and heavy weapons fire on March 29, hitting locations in Afghanistan's Kunar province and the bordering Bajur district of Pakistan. A deputy spokesman for the Taliban administration said Pakistani fire killed at least one person and injured 16 others, most of them women and children.
Pakistani security officials denied targeting civilian locations, stating that their forces responded only to heavy shelling from the Afghan side. A Pakistani government official described the Taliban's casualty figures as exaggerated, while the Pakistani military did not respond to a request for comment.
The exchange follows the worst fighting between the two countries in years, which erupted in February. A pause in hostilities had been announced for Eid al-Fitr and requested by Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia; Pakistan ended that pause last week, while Kabul has not officially confirmed whether it considers the ceasefire still in force.
#Pakistan #Afghanistan
@asianomics
Pakistan and Afghanistan exchanged artillery and heavy weapons fire on March 29, hitting locations in Afghanistan's Kunar province and the bordering Bajur district of Pakistan. A deputy spokesman for the Taliban administration said Pakistani fire killed at least one person and injured 16 others, most of them women and children.
Pakistani security officials denied targeting civilian locations, stating that their forces responded only to heavy shelling from the Afghan side. A Pakistani government official described the Taliban's casualty figures as exaggerated, while the Pakistani military did not respond to a request for comment.
The exchange follows the worst fighting between the two countries in years, which erupted in February. A pause in hostilities had been announced for Eid al-Fitr and requested by Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia; Pakistan ended that pause last week, while Kabul has not officially confirmed whether it considers the ceasefire still in force.
#Pakistan #Afghanistan
@asianomics
The Straits Times
Pakistan, Afghanistan trade fire as Islamabad prepares to host US-Iran talks
Pakistan and Afghanistan’s worst fighting in years erupted in February. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.
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🇰🇷 Seoul Weighs Public Driving Curbs Amid Oil Surge
South Korea's Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol said the government could expand passenger car restrictions beyond public institutions if crude prices rise to $120–$130 a barrel, up from the current $100–$110 range. Supply strains linked to the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran have driven the increase.
If extended to the general public, the measure would be South Korea's first nationwide driving curbs since the 1991 Gulf War, when a 10-day vehicle rotation system was imposed. The government last week already enforced a mandatory five-day rotation scheme for the public sector. The finance ministry said mandatory private-sector curbs remain undecided pending assessment of energy supply conditions and broader economic factors.
South Korea imports around 70% of its crude oil from the Middle East, making it highly exposed to regional supply disruptions. Major conglomerates including Samsung Electronics and SK Group have urged employees to reduce private car use, and Energy Minister Kim Sung-whan said authorities are reviewing wider demand-management measures if the national crisis alert level rises further.
#SouthKorea
@asianomics
South Korea's Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol said the government could expand passenger car restrictions beyond public institutions if crude prices rise to $120–$130 a barrel, up from the current $100–$110 range. Supply strains linked to the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran have driven the increase.
If extended to the general public, the measure would be South Korea's first nationwide driving curbs since the 1991 Gulf War, when a 10-day vehicle rotation system was imposed. The government last week already enforced a mandatory five-day rotation scheme for the public sector. The finance ministry said mandatory private-sector curbs remain undecided pending assessment of energy supply conditions and broader economic factors.
South Korea imports around 70% of its crude oil from the Middle East, making it highly exposed to regional supply disruptions. Major conglomerates including Samsung Electronics and SK Group have urged employees to reduce private car use, and Energy Minister Kim Sung-whan said authorities are reviewing wider demand-management measures if the national crisis alert level rises further.
#SouthKorea
@asianomics
The Straits Times
South Korea considers nationwide driving curbs as oil prices soar
SEOUL, March 30 - South Korea is considering extending driving curbs to the general public if global oil prices climb further, senior officials said, as authorities seek to rein in energy demand amid supply strains due to the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran. Read…
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🇯🇵🇰🇷 Japan, Korea Stocks Drop on Iran Ground War Reports
Stocks in Japan and South Korea fell sharply Monday amid reports of possible US ground operations against Iran. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average dropped over 5%, entering correction territory, while South Korean equities declined approximately 3%.
The conflict, now in its second month, has kept Persian Gulf oil supplies severely disrupted. Tokyo authorities issued warnings of potential yen intervention as the currency came under pressure.
The market moves reflect continued uncertainty over energy supply from the Persian Gulf region. Both Japan and South Korea are heavily dependent on Middle East oil imports.
#Japan #SouthKorea
@asianomics
Stocks in Japan and South Korea fell sharply Monday amid reports of possible US ground operations against Iran. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average dropped over 5%, entering correction territory, while South Korean equities declined approximately 3%.
The conflict, now in its second month, has kept Persian Gulf oil supplies severely disrupted. Tokyo authorities issued warnings of potential yen intervention as the currency came under pressure.
The market moves reflect continued uncertainty over energy supply from the Persian Gulf region. Both Japan and South Korea are heavily dependent on Middle East oil imports.
#Japan #SouthKorea
@asianomics
Nikkei Asia
Japan, Korea stocks fall 3% amid talk of Iran ground war
Nikkei average reaches correction territory; Tokyo threatens yen intervention
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🌏 Iran War Squeezes Asian Currencies, Energy Supply
Asia-Pacific policymakers are facing simultaneous pressure from surging oil prices and weakening currencies as the US-Israeli war on Iran disrupts regional energy supply. Asia buys roughly 80% of the oil shipped through the Strait of Hormuz, and J.P. Morgan commodity analysts project oil shortages worsening through April and May.
India's rupee, Indonesia's rupiah, and the Philippine peso have fallen to record lows against the dollar this month, alongside major troughs for the yen and South Korean won. The dollar has risen more than 4% against the won, peso, and Thai baht — compared with around 1.5% against the euro — as safe-haven demand drives buying.
Policy responses across the region have varied: Australia raised interest rates, South Korea directed its national pension fund to increase its hedging ratio, India capped banks' currency positions, and the Philippines declared a state of emergency and held an unscheduled central bank meeting. Natixis Asia-Pacific chief economist Alicia Garcia Herrero stated that central banks have no remaining instrument, as prior rate cuts and inflationary pressure leave little room to maneuver.
#India #SouthKorea #Indonesia
@asianomics
Asia-Pacific policymakers are facing simultaneous pressure from surging oil prices and weakening currencies as the US-Israeli war on Iran disrupts regional energy supply. Asia buys roughly 80% of the oil shipped through the Strait of Hormuz, and J.P. Morgan commodity analysts project oil shortages worsening through April and May.
India's rupee, Indonesia's rupiah, and the Philippine peso have fallen to record lows against the dollar this month, alongside major troughs for the yen and South Korean won. The dollar has risen more than 4% against the won, peso, and Thai baht — compared with around 1.5% against the euro — as safe-haven demand drives buying.
Policy responses across the region have varied: Australia raised interest rates, South Korea directed its national pension fund to increase its hedging ratio, India capped banks' currency positions, and the Philippines declared a state of emergency and held an unscheduled central bank meeting. Natixis Asia-Pacific chief economist Alicia Garcia Herrero stated that central banks have no remaining instrument, as prior rate cuts and inflationary pressure leave little room to maneuver.
#India #SouthKorea #Indonesia
@asianomics
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🇧🇩 Bangladesh Orders Power Cuts Amid Energy Crunch
Bangladesh's Ministry of Public Administration issued directives on electricity use on March 29, ordering civil servants to limit lighting, restrict air-conditioning to 25 degrees Celsius or warmer, and switch off equipment when leaving offices. The measures follow a deepening energy shortage linked to the ongoing Middle East war.
Bangladesh imports 95 percent of its oil and gas needs, making it highly exposed to supply disruptions from the conflict. The government has already capped fuel purchases, halted production at most fertiliser factories, and deployed police to patrol filling stations.
To address the broader financing gap, Bangladesh is seeking approximately US$2 billion in loans from multilateral donors. The latest administrative orders extend a pattern of demand-side measures the government has pursued to manage fuel availability.
#Bangladesh
@asianomics
Bangladesh's Ministry of Public Administration issued directives on electricity use on March 29, ordering civil servants to limit lighting, restrict air-conditioning to 25 degrees Celsius or warmer, and switch off equipment when leaving offices. The measures follow a deepening energy shortage linked to the ongoing Middle East war.
Bangladesh imports 95 percent of its oil and gas needs, making it highly exposed to supply disruptions from the conflict. The government has already capped fuel purchases, halted production at most fertiliser factories, and deployed police to patrol filling stations.
To address the broader financing gap, Bangladesh is seeking approximately US$2 billion in loans from multilateral donors. The latest administrative orders extend a pattern of demand-side measures the government has pursued to manage fuel availability.
#Bangladesh
@asianomics
The Straits Times
Bangladesh turns off lights as Middle East war deepens energy crunch
It also ordered that air-conditioning temperatures must be set at 25 deg C, or warmer. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.
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🇯🇵🇨🇳 Japan Deploys Long-Range Missiles Near China
Japan has deployed a surface-to-ship missile system in Kumamoto, in the southern Kyushu region, Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirmed on March 31. The system has a range of approximately 1,000km, placing parts of the Chinese mainland within reach — Shanghai is around 900km from the deployment site.
Koizumi also confirmed the separate deployment of a hyper velocity gliding projectile in Shizuoka, a coastal prefecture closer to Tokyo facing the Pacific. Japan's Defence Ministry describes the stand-off capabilities as essential for countering threats to personnel and remote islands.
Japan approved a plan for counter-attack missile deployment in 2022, citing the growing difficulty of relying solely on ballistic missile defence against advanced missile technologies. Japan–China relations have deteriorated in recent months after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi indicated in November that Tokyo could intervene militarily in any attack on Taiwan.
#Japan #China
@asianomics
Japan has deployed a surface-to-ship missile system in Kumamoto, in the southern Kyushu region, Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirmed on March 31. The system has a range of approximately 1,000km, placing parts of the Chinese mainland within reach — Shanghai is around 900km from the deployment site.
Koizumi also confirmed the separate deployment of a hyper velocity gliding projectile in Shizuoka, a coastal prefecture closer to Tokyo facing the Pacific. Japan's Defence Ministry describes the stand-off capabilities as essential for countering threats to personnel and remote islands.
Japan approved a plan for counter-attack missile deployment in 2022, citing the growing difficulty of relying solely on ballistic missile defence against advanced missile technologies. Japan–China relations have deteriorated in recent months after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi indicated in November that Tokyo could intervene militarily in any attack on Taiwan.
#Japan #China
@asianomics
The Straits Times
Japan deploys long-range missiles near China
Japan is attempting to shore up its military capacity as China steps up naval activity in the East China Sea. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.
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🇲🇲 Myanmar's Spymaster Named New Military Chief
On March 30, General Ye Win Oo was appointed commander-in-chief of Myanmar's military, becoming the first intelligence chief to hold the position. The 60-year-old previously served as Chief of Military Security Affairs and personally led the contingent of troops that detained then-leader Aung San Suu Kyi during the February 2021 coup.
Analysts and a military defector describe Gen Ye Win Oo's selection as driven primarily by his close personal and family ties to outgoing commander General Min Aung Hlaing. Gen Min Aung Hlaing, who shed his uniform following a widely criticized December 2025 election, is expected to assume the presidency and will require the military's continued support in that role.
Gen Ye Win Oo's rise through the ranks, including his 2020 appointment as intelligence chief, is attributed to Gen Min Aung Hlaing's patronage. UN investigators have separately accused Myanmar's security forces of systematic torture and killings during interrogations — abuses documented in a 2025 report by the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar.
#Myanmar
@asianomics
On March 30, General Ye Win Oo was appointed commander-in-chief of Myanmar's military, becoming the first intelligence chief to hold the position. The 60-year-old previously served as Chief of Military Security Affairs and personally led the contingent of troops that detained then-leader Aung San Suu Kyi during the February 2021 coup.
Analysts and a military defector describe Gen Ye Win Oo's selection as driven primarily by his close personal and family ties to outgoing commander General Min Aung Hlaing. Gen Min Aung Hlaing, who shed his uniform following a widely criticized December 2025 election, is expected to assume the presidency and will require the military's continued support in that role.
Gen Ye Win Oo's rise through the ranks, including his 2020 appointment as intelligence chief, is attributed to Gen Min Aung Hlaing's patronage. UN investigators have separately accused Myanmar's security forces of systematic torture and killings during interrogations — abuses documented in a 2025 report by the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar.
#Myanmar
@asianomics
The Straits Times
Myanmar’s former spymaster Ye Win Oo rises to become military chief
The key to the general's selection is his close proximity and loyalty to the outgoing commander. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.
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🇨🇳🇯🇵 PLA Daily Claims Japan Near Nuclear Capability
In a full-page report, PLA Daily stated that Japan had separated 44.4 tonnes of plutonium by the end of 2024 — enough to produce approximately 5,500 nuclear warheads. The outlet warned that once Japan fully abandoned its Three Non-Nuclear Principles, it could become a de facto nuclear-armed state within a very short period.
The report accused Japan of systematically developing its defence industry under civilian cover, noting that Tokyo's advanced technology transition research budget reached 17.5 billion yen in 2025 — 18 times the 2022 figure. Japan's Defence Ministry established a DARPA-style research institute in 2024 and has been drawing civilian firms into military R&D.
PLA Daily linked the report to broader bilateral tensions that deteriorated after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said in November that Japan could intervene militarily if China attacked Taiwan. The report also referenced Japan's contracts involving Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, including a US$6.8 billion warship deal with Australia and Patriot missile deliveries to the United States.
#China #Japan
@asianomics
In a full-page report, PLA Daily stated that Japan had separated 44.4 tonnes of plutonium by the end of 2024 — enough to produce approximately 5,500 nuclear warheads. The outlet warned that once Japan fully abandoned its Three Non-Nuclear Principles, it could become a de facto nuclear-armed state within a very short period.
The report accused Japan of systematically developing its defence industry under civilian cover, noting that Tokyo's advanced technology transition research budget reached 17.5 billion yen in 2025 — 18 times the 2022 figure. Japan's Defence Ministry established a DARPA-style research institute in 2024 and has been drawing civilian firms into military R&D.
PLA Daily linked the report to broader bilateral tensions that deteriorated after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said in November that Japan could intervene militarily if China attacked Taiwan. The report also referenced Japan's contracts involving Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, including a US$6.8 billion warship deal with Australia and Patriot missile deliveries to the United States.
#China #Japan
@asianomics
South China Morning Post
Japan has enough plutonium to make 5,500 nuclear warheads, PLA Daily says
China’s military mouthpiece claims Tokyo has ‘astonishing’ stockpile of nuclear materials and the tech to produce weapons.
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🇹🇼🇨🇳 KMT Chair Heads to China for Reconciliation
Kuomintang chairwoman Cheng Li-wun departs for China on April 7 for a six-day visit at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, covering Beijing, Shanghai, and Jiangsu province. Speaking at a party meeting in Taipei, she said the Taiwanese people do not want the island to become one of the world's most dangerous flashpoints.
Cheng framed the trip as promoting peace and reconciliation — both between Taiwan's ruling and opposition parties domestically, and across the Taiwan Strait. China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhang Han described the visit as reflecting the Communist Party and KMT's shared commitment to seeking peace, and reiterated that peaceful reunification would bring economic benefits to Taiwan.
Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council stated that China's intention to annex the island would not change as a result of interactions with a political party or individual. The trip comes as Taiwan's opposition-dominated legislature has stalled President Lai Ching-te's US$40 billion supplemental defence budget, with the KMT opposing what it describes as blank-cheque spending.
#Taiwan #China
@asianomics
Kuomintang chairwoman Cheng Li-wun departs for China on April 7 for a six-day visit at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, covering Beijing, Shanghai, and Jiangsu province. Speaking at a party meeting in Taipei, she said the Taiwanese people do not want the island to become one of the world's most dangerous flashpoints.
Cheng framed the trip as promoting peace and reconciliation — both between Taiwan's ruling and opposition parties domestically, and across the Taiwan Strait. China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhang Han described the visit as reflecting the Communist Party and KMT's shared commitment to seeking peace, and reiterated that peaceful reunification would bring economic benefits to Taiwan.
Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council stated that China's intention to annex the island would not change as a result of interactions with a political party or individual. The trip comes as Taiwan's opposition-dominated legislature has stalled President Lai Ching-te's US$40 billion supplemental defence budget, with the KMT opposing what it describes as blank-cheque spending.
#Taiwan #China
@asianomics
The Straits Times
World does not need a crisis over Taiwan, opposition leader says ahead of China trip
Chairwoman of the Kuomintang Cheng Li-wun said she is seeking reconciliation. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.
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🇦🇺🇯🇵 China Jet Fuel Cuts Hit Australia, Japan
China's jet fuel exports have declined sharply in recent weeks as the US-Israel war on Iran disrupts regional supply chains. Australia and Japan, both heavily reliant on Chinese jet fuel, are now facing a supply crunch.
Shipments have plunged in recent weeks, leaving both countries scrambling to identify alternative suppliers. Qantas has already begun raising airfares in response to the tightening supply in Australia.
Three Chinese vessels recently exited the Strait of Hormuz as PetroChina moved to stress the stability of its operations amid the broader regional conflict. The situation has placed additional pressure on Asia-Pacific aviation fuel markets.
#Australia #Japan #China
@asianomics
China's jet fuel exports have declined sharply in recent weeks as the US-Israel war on Iran disrupts regional supply chains. Australia and Japan, both heavily reliant on Chinese jet fuel, are now facing a supply crunch.
Shipments have plunged in recent weeks, leaving both countries scrambling to identify alternative suppliers. Qantas has already begun raising airfares in response to the tightening supply in Australia.
Three Chinese vessels recently exited the Strait of Hormuz as PetroChina moved to stress the stability of its operations amid the broader regional conflict. The situation has placed additional pressure on Asia-Pacific aviation fuel markets.
#Australia #Japan #China
@asianomics
South China Morning Post
Australia and Japan face jet fuel supply crunch as China cuts exports
Both Australia and Japan are heavily reliant on Chinese jet fuel, but shipments have plunged in recent weeks amid the Iran war.
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🇰🇷🇪🇺 Seoul Asks EU to Mediate Inter-Korean Dialogue
South Korea's Unification Minister Chung Dong-young asked the European Union to consider facilitating a two-plus-one dialogue between Seoul, Pyongyang, and the EU during a meeting with a European Parliament foreign affairs delegation led by Chairman David McAllister.
Chung cited the EU's history of resolving long-standing regional animosity and achieving integration as factors making it a suitable mediator between the two Koreas. The Lee Jae Myung government has been seeking to revive inter-Korean dialogue to reduce military tensions.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un formally designated South Korea the "most hostile state" in a speech to parliament last week, and Pyongyang has repeatedly ruled out dialogue with Seoul in recent months.
#SouthKorea #NorthKorea #EU
@asianomics
South Korea's Unification Minister Chung Dong-young asked the European Union to consider facilitating a two-plus-one dialogue between Seoul, Pyongyang, and the EU during a meeting with a European Parliament foreign affairs delegation led by Chairman David McAllister.
Chung cited the EU's history of resolving long-standing regional animosity and achieving integration as factors making it a suitable mediator between the two Koreas. The Lee Jae Myung government has been seeking to revive inter-Korean dialogue to reduce military tensions.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un formally designated South Korea the "most hostile state" in a speech to parliament last week, and Pyongyang has repeatedly ruled out dialogue with Seoul in recent months.
#SouthKorea #NorthKorea #EU
@asianomics
Yonhap News Agency
Unification minister asks EU to mediate '2+1' dialogue with N. Korea
SEOUL, April 1 (Yonhap) -- Unification Minister Chung Dong-young on Wednesday asked the Eu...
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🇰🇷🇮🇩 Seoul, Jakarta Sign Resource Supply MOUs
South Korea's Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan met with Indonesia's coordinating minister for economic affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, on the sidelines of a presidential summit in Seoul on April 1. Kim requested Indonesia's continued LNG supply support for South Korea amid disruptions caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict.
South Korean companies, including POSCO, are expected to receive approximately 820,000 tons of LNG from Indonesia in 2026, sufficient to operate all of South Korea's LNG power plants for about 12 days, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources. Kim also asked the Indonesian government to improve its investment environment for South Korean businesses, including automotive tax incentives.
On the same occasion, the two countries signed two memorandums of understanding covering economic cooperation and key resource supply partnerships. Under a separate MOU between the two countries' industry and energy ministries, Seoul and Jakarta agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in the development and refinement of critical minerals.
#SouthKorea #Indonesia
@asianomics
South Korea's Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan met with Indonesia's coordinating minister for economic affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, on the sidelines of a presidential summit in Seoul on April 1. Kim requested Indonesia's continued LNG supply support for South Korea amid disruptions caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict.
South Korean companies, including POSCO, are expected to receive approximately 820,000 tons of LNG from Indonesia in 2026, sufficient to operate all of South Korea's LNG power plants for about 12 days, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources. Kim also asked the Indonesian government to improve its investment environment for South Korean businesses, including automotive tax incentives.
On the same occasion, the two countries signed two memorandums of understanding covering economic cooperation and key resource supply partnerships. Under a separate MOU between the two countries' industry and energy ministries, Seoul and Jakarta agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in the development and refinement of critical minerals.
#SouthKorea #Indonesia
@asianomics
Yonhap News Agency
S. Korea, Indonesia agree to boost economic partnership, supply chain cooperation
SEOUL, April 1 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan met with Ind...
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🇰🇷🇦🇪 UAE Oil Shipments Arrive in South Korea
The first batch of emergency crude oil from the UAE has reached South Korea under a 24-million-barrel supply agreement concluded last month. The UAE committed to delivering the full volume with top priority after the Strait of Hormuz was effectively closed due to the US-Iran war.
Of an initial 6-million-barrel tranche, 2 million barrels arrived on Monday and another 2 million are scheduled for early to mid-April. The UAE also transferred 2 million barrels from its international joint reserves stockpiled in South Korea directly to a local oil refinery.
The remaining 18 million barrels are in transit, with 2 million barrels purchased by a South Korean company due to arrive in mid-April. South Korea's Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources stated that the energy cooperation framework between the two countries will be used to address future energy security challenges.
#SouthKorea #UAE
@asianomics
The first batch of emergency crude oil from the UAE has reached South Korea under a 24-million-barrel supply agreement concluded last month. The UAE committed to delivering the full volume with top priority after the Strait of Hormuz was effectively closed due to the US-Iran war.
Of an initial 6-million-barrel tranche, 2 million barrels arrived on Monday and another 2 million are scheduled for early to mid-April. The UAE also transferred 2 million barrels from its international joint reserves stockpiled in South Korea directly to a local oil refinery.
The remaining 18 million barrels are in transit, with 2 million barrels purchased by a South Korean company due to arrive in mid-April. South Korea's Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources stated that the energy cooperation framework between the two countries will be used to address future energy security challenges.
#SouthKorea #UAE
@asianomics
Yonhap News Agency
Crude oil supply from UAE en route to S. Korea as agreed: ministry
SEOUL, April 1 (Yonhap) -- Emergency shipments of crude oil from the United Arab Emirates ...
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