Asia Pacific News
LAST UPDATE: October 15, 2025
IMF raises Taiwan’s 2025 growth forecast to 3.7%
The IMF raised its 2025 growth forecast for Taiwan to 3.7% from 2.9%, while lowering the 2026 forecast to 2.1%.
Insight
Upward revision reflects improving external demand and easing tariff pressures, but the downward 2026 outlook signals caution ahead.
IMF keeps Thailand’s GDP forecast at 2%, warns on global debt and AI bubble risks
The IMF maintained Thailand’s 2025 GDP growth forecast at 2%, citing risks from global debt and a possible AI-driven asset bubble.
Insight
Thailand’s economy is seen as stable but vulnerable to external shocks and global financial volatility.
Thailand Plans Local Tourism Stimulus, Faster State Spending
The Thai government plans stimulus measures aimed at domestic tourism and increased state expenditure to offset weak external demand.
Insight
Pivoting to local consumption suggests awareness that external headwinds may limit growth prospects.
Deflationary pressures persist in China on weak demand, overcapacity
China’s CPI and PPI continued to contract in September, reflecting weak demand and excess capacity in the economy. (Reuters)
Insight
Persistent deflation signals structural challenges and could constrain growth unless demand-side measures are strengthened.
Japan’s Surprise Kingmaker Tamaki Has Shot at Becoming PM
Yuichiro Tamaki, once sidelined, is now emerging as a possible kingmaker in Japan’s fragmented political landscape and could become prime minister.
Insight
His rise underscores fluid party alignments and the pivotal role of coalition politics in Japan.
South Korea: Deputy Prime Minister Koo to Discuss Tariff Negotiations with U.S. Treasury Secretary
Deputy PM Koo is expected to engage in bilateral talks with the U.S. Treasury Secretary during IMF/G20 meetings to address tariff issues.
Insight
The move reflects Seoul’s push to manage pressure from U.S. trade policy and safeguard export-driven growth.
South Korea Unveils New Curbs to Rein in Red-Hot Housing Market
The South Korean government announced measures such as tighter loan limits, new overheated districts, and lower LTV ratios to cool property speculation.
Insight
The policies aim to contain housing bubbles while balancing financial stability and growth.
India Speeds US Trade Talks in Bid to Reach Deal by November
India is accelerating trade negotiations with the U.S. in an effort to finalize an agreement by November.
Insight
This signals New Delhi’s eagerness to ease trade friction and secure greater access to the U.S. market.
Vietnam Communist Party targets faster growth for next five years amid challenges
The Communist Party aims for annual growth of at least 10 % in the 2026–2030 period, far above the 6.5–7.0 % target for 2021–2025, but flags risks like ageing, technology gaps, climate challenges and global instability. (Reuters)
Insight
The ambitious goal signals a push for transformation, but success will depend heavily on structural reforms and external resilience.
Australia central bank cautions on inflation, productivity
The Reserve Bank of Australia opted to hold rates, warning that inflation is stronger than expected and that weak productivity may limit future growth. (Reuters)
Insight
The RBA’s cautious posture suggests limited flexibility for cuts and underscores pressures on Australia’s medium-term growth potential.
New Zealand central bank open to more rate cuts, chief economist says
After a 50 basis point cut, the central bank’s chief economist said policy is “very finely balanced” but flagged openness to further easing if conditions warrant. (TradingView)
Insight
The tone is dovish, reflecting concern over demand weakness and confidence that inflation can fall toward target over time.
