Asia Pacific News
LAST UPDATE: October 3, 2025
BOJ’s Ueda warns of global uncertainty, keeps markets guessing on next hike
BOJ Governor Ueda highlighted risks from the global economy, including weak U.S. labor data and rising tariffs, cautioning that such factors could weigh on wage growth.
Insight
His comments suggest the BOJ is keeping flexibility, signaling that future rate hikes will depend on sustained domestic momentum.
Japan’s service sector extends gains in September, PMI shows
Japan’s services PMI climbed further in September to 53.3, reflecting strong domestic demand and continued growth in the sector.
Insight
The service sector’s resilience may support the BOJ’s tightening stance, offsetting weakness in manufacturing.
Japan’s Jobless Rate Edges Up to Highest in Over a Year
Japan’s unemployment rate rose to 2.6% in August, the highest level in over a year, signaling a slowdown in labor market strength.
Insight
The uptick in unemployment could complicate the BOJ’s efforts to maintain confidence in wage-led inflation.
Japan’s ruling party edges towards picking youngest leader in a century
Shinjiro Koizumi has emerged as the frontrunner in the LDP race, positioning him to become the youngest leader in a century.
Insight
His leadership could bring a generational shift and potentially fresh policy approaches to Japan’s political landscape.
Indian Finance Minister Says Economy Can Withstand Global Shocks
Finance Minister Sitharaman stated that India’s economy is resilient to external shocks and emphasized continued capital spending.
Insight
India’s confidence reflects its strong domestic demand, but global headwinds and fiscal pressures remain risks.
Trade policy environment could hit permanently growth in some economies, India central bank chief says
The RBI Governor warned that global trade policy uncertainty could permanently harm growth in some economies.
Insight
His warning highlights the structural risks of protectionism and trade fragmentation, especially for emerging markets.
Vietnam Central Bank Vows to Push Growth, Limit Credit Risk
Vietnam’s central bank pledged to stimulate growth while curbing lending to high-risk sectors.
Insight
The dual approach shows Vietnam’s balancing act between boosting credit and maintaining financial stability.
Myanmar’s reclusive general turns jet-setter in quest for election backing
Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has embarked on international trips to secure backing ahead of Myanmar’s December elections.
Insight
The shift from isolation to diplomacy highlights the regime’s push for legitimacy abroad.
Australia rolls out ‘ghost bats and sharks’ in defence spree
Australia announced a major defense spending plan featuring “Ghost Bat” drones and “Ghost Shark” undersea vessels.
Insight
This reflects Canberra’s drive to strengthen its strategic deterrence and technological edge in the Indo-Pacific.
