Asia Pacific News
LAST UPDATE: September 5, 2025
Trump Signs Order Sealing Japan Tariff Deal With 15% Rate
President Trump signed an executive order putting into effect a US–Japan trade agreement that caps tariffs on most Japanese imports, including autos and parts, at 15%.
Insight
The move solidifies a key trade accord and signals strengthened bilateral ties; it offers a path to renewed economic cooperation.
Japan’s Ishiba Reaffirms Intent to Stay On After Tariffs Lowered
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba declared he intends to remain in office following the US-Japan tariff reduction deal, rejecting suggestions that the agreement could force his exit.
Insight
His statement aims to preserve leadership continuity and reassure markets amid uncertain political dynamics tied to the trade agreement.
Japan’s Ishiba May Face Leadership Challenge on Monday
Lawmakers in Japan’s ruling party are scheduled to vote on Monday on whether to hold an extraordinary leadership election that could unseat Prime Minister Ishiba.
Insight
The vote underscores mounting internal pressure and political instability, which could significantly disrupt policymaking.
Japan’s Real Wages, Consumer Spending Climb but Inflation Challenges Persist
In July, real wages rose for the first time in seven months thanks to generous summer bonuses, and household spending increased, although inflation remains stubbornly high.
Insight
While wage gains offer temporary relief, persistent inflation continues to constrain consumer behavior and complicates central bank decisions.
ANALYSIS – With Diplomatic Tour de Force, China’s Xi Shows He’s ‘Totally in Charge’
China’s Xi Jinping has leveraged high-profile diplomacy and public displays of strength to quash doubts about his longevity and dominance in Communist Party politics.
Insight
Xi is leveraging strategic visibility and unity to reinforce his command at home and project authority abroad, strengthening his leadership standing.
Kim Tells Xi That North Korea Will Support China’s Interests, KCNA Reports
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un conveyed that Pyongyang will continue supporting China’s sovereignty and development goals, reinforcing their strategic partnership.
Insight
The affirmation reflects deepening ties and ideological alignment between two pivotal regional powers amid global geopolitical shifts.
Anutin Elected New Thai Premier as Political Turmoil Eases
Thailand’s parliament elected Anutin Charnvirakul as prime minister, the third person to hold the role since 2023, following political turbulence and a court ruling.
Insight
His election may signal the start of stability, though short-term uncertainty and pending elections remain a backdrop to his leadership.
Philippine Annual Inflation Quickens to 1.5% in August
Annual inflation in the Philippines rose to 1.5% in August from 0.9% in July, led by higher costs in housing, utilities, and food, while core inflation climbed to 2.7%.
Insight
Rising inflation highlights cost pressures; policymakers face challenges balancing stimulus with inflation containment in an evolving economic context.
Australian PM, Trump talk security and critical minerals
Prime Minister Albanese and President Trump held a warm and constructive conversation, discussing cooperation on trade, critical minerals, and shared security interests.
Insight
The call underscores strategic economic and security alignment, as Australia and the US explore deeper collaboration in resource and defense areas.
