Asia Pacific News
LAST UPDATE: August 29, 2025
Former Indian central bank governor Urjit Patel appointed IMF executive director
Former Reserve Bank of India Governor Urjit Patel has been named an executive director at the IMF.
Insight
The appointment brings seasoned policy leadership to the IMF and reinforces India’s growing influence in international finance.
India’s economy resilient but US trade policies a downside risk, central bank bulletin says
The RBI’s latest bulletin notes India’s strong economic fundamentals, but warns that U.S. protectionist policies pose a downside risk.
Insight
Reflects optimism about domestic growth, but also awareness of external vulnerabilities from trade dynamics.
Modi to Secure Japan Investment With Pledge to Deepen Ties
Prime Minister Modi will seek increased Japanese investment while pledging closer strategic partnership.
Insight
A strategic outreach aimed at offsetting trade tensions and anchoring regional economic collaboration.
Japan’s output falls as US tariffs bite, inflation slows
Japan’s industrial production declined in July due to slower global demand and the impact of U.S. tariffs. Inflation also cooled.
Insight
The data highlights renewed pressure on Japan’s export sectors and supports expectations of accommodative monetary policy.
South Korea Eyes 8.1% Budget Increase to Aid Growth Amid Tariffs
South Korea is considering raising its 2026 fiscal budget by 8.1% to support economic growth amid rising trade barriers.
Insight
A bold fiscal expansion signals readiness to offset external shocks and reinforce domestic momentum.
North Korea posts fastest growth in 8 years in 2024, driven by Russia ties, Seoul says
South Korea’s government estimates North Korea achieved its fastest economic growth in eight years, fueled by increased trade with Russia.
Insight
Suggests North Korea’s deepening reliance on Russia for economic lifelines amid broader sanctions regime.
Indonesia’s president calls for calm as protests mount
Amid ongoing protests, Indonesia’s President appealed for calm and emphasized the importance of dialogue.
Insight
Reinforces the administration’s commitment to stability while managing social tensions through engagement.
Vietnam announces National Day cash handouts worth $380 mln
Vietnam will give every citizen 100,000 dong (~$3.80) ahead of National Day on September 2, in a stimulus package that may cost up to $380 million. Payments will be made by cash or bank transfers before the holiday.
Insight
This broad-based payout is a rare, populist fiscal gesture emphasizing the government’s intent to boost public morale and support household spending ahead of a state holiday.
NZ central bank chair Quigley resigns on fallout from governor’s sudden exit
Neil Quigley, chairman of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, resigned immediately following fallout and criticism over how the bank handled the unexpected resignation of its governor earlier in 2025. Deputy chair Rodger Finlay will serve in the interim.
Insight
Quigley’s resignation signals institutional strain and a leadership crisis at the central bank, potentially undermining confidence in New Zealand’s monetary governance.
