South Korea
East Asia’s petrochemical industry: stuck between tradition and transition
As the global economy begins its gradual but determined pivot towards decarbonisation and renewable energy, East Asia's petrochemical giants now find themselves straddling two competing imperatives – legacy industries and a low-carbon future.
Asia’s fruit boom: how the continent is feeding the world’s sweet tooth
Asian growers are now tapping into global markets more aggressively than ever before.
Asia's role as a global data centre hub is driving economic growth across the region
Microsoft and Google recently announced multi-billion dollar investments to expand their existing facilities in Singapore, incorporating AI-ready infrastructure and renewable energy commitments.
ASIA BLOG: Which side leading Asian nations would back if Iran VS Israel escalates
In the event of an escalation, Beijing would likely call for restraint and push for a negotiated settlement. It may be doing so already behind the scenes. However, its silence or perceived tilt towards Tehran could provoke criticism from the West.
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Malaysia backs Iran’s retaliation against Israel, markets in Asia react
In a bold diplomatic stance, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim declared Malaysia’s support for Iran’s retaliation against Israel, citing the country’s right to defend its national dignity.
What the Iran-Israel war could mean for much of Asia
From energy security and trade disruptions to political polarisation and rising tensions among Muslim-majority nations such as Indonesia, Malaysia and nuclear armed Pakistan, the consequences for Asia could reshape regional dynamics.
Why South Korea must prioritise bilateral nuclear research over fragmented one-off projects
Should South Korea continue spreading its efforts across short-term, individual projects – often tied to specific, time-consuming contracts – or should it double down on long-term, bilateral nuclear research partnerships?
Asia surges ahead in global EV race as the West struggles to keep pace
Asia has firmly established itself as the epicentre of the global electric vehicle revolution, driven by a powerful combination of vast consumer markets, robust infrastructure and unparalleled control over essential raw materials.
ASIA BLOG: The Russians are coming, and coming, and coming...
Since President Putin announced partial mobilisation in September 2022, hundreds of thousands of Russian men – mainly in their 20s and early 30s – have fled the country to avoid being drafted. Many have ended up in Southeast Asia.
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Poland to receive 180 K2 tanks in €5.1bn deal
The signing ceremony for the second executive agreement on delivering 180 K2 tanks for the Polish army is expected to take place at the end of June.
COMMENT: What Japan, Southeast Asia and the US can expect from South Korea’s new president
While he has not shied away from criticising Tokyo, Lee has sensibly signalled a willingness to compartmentalise some issues in order to foster cooperation on trade, technology and regional security.
Czech government reiterates domestic suppliers will have 60% share in Dukovany nuclear project
The Czech government reiterated that domestic suppliers will have a 60% share in the CZK407bn (16.4bn) project to construct two new blocks at the Dukovany nuclear power plant.
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ASIA BLOG: How US tariffs are driving Asia closer to itself – and China
What’s striking right now is how ASEAN is operating on two levels. Publicly, it champions inclusivity and dialogue. Privately, it’s hedging harder than ever.
Hungary’s flagship battery sector racks up $112mn losses amid demand slump
Hungary’s battery manufacturing sector, heralded as a pillar of the manufacturing sector, has posted combined annual losses of nearly $112mn, as weakening global demand and shifting trade dynamics hit the industry hard.
COMMENT: Asian unity in a fragmenting world boosted by the RCEP
In the face of renewed US protectionism and the use of tariffs as economic weapons, RCEP offers the Indo-Pacific region something far more strategic: a framework for resilience, integration and independence.
Czech Supreme Court lifts blocking of Dukovany nuclear contract
The Czech Supreme Administrative Court has lifted the blocking of the contract between the South Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power and the Czech side for the major €16bn Dukovany nuclear power plant enhancement.
COMMENT: Asia's team lists in the Washington VS Beijing bout
While fewer in number, some Asian nations have displayed clear signs of alignment or strategic proximity to China.
Lee Jae-myung takes office as South Korean president after snap election
He stepped into the role at 6:21 am local time, immediately succeeding acting President Lee Ju-ho without a transition period, due to the abrupt election triggered by the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
South Korea votes in pivotal election after martial law crisis
The election, held six months after Yoon’s controversial move, has attracted immense public interest. By 9 am, over 4mn people - roughly 9.2% of the 44.39mn registered voters - had already cast their votes across more than 14,000 polling stations.
COMMENT: US Defence Secretary Hegseth tells Asian countries war with China “could be imminent”
US Secretary for Defence Pete Hegseth put the cat amongst the pigeons during a speech at the at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 31, by telling the leading Asian countries they should join with the US and get ready for war with China.