News Flash Asia from October 20, 2025

overview

Last week saw several key events in Asia – geopolitical, economic, and weather-related. Particularly in focus were China's new five-year plan, an upcoming high-level economic and foreign policy conference in South Korea, a political change of power in Japan, and a severe weather event in the Philippines. At the same time, security issues along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, concerns about the Chinese economy, and the spread of a viral disease in China remained important topics.

China: Economic and political direction

China is increasingly in focus. On the one hand, its economy grew by 4.8% year-on-year in the third quarter of 2025 – the lowest growth in a year. Particularly burdensome: A decline in real estate investment of almost 14% and weak domestic demand.
In parallel, President Xi Jinping, at a meeting of the Communist Party Central Committee, opened consultations on a new five-year plan (2026-2030), focusing on "high-quality growth," technological innovation, national security, and equitable distribution. Furthermore, nine high-ranking military officials were expelled, suggesting a domestic purge and restructuring.
This dual movement — economically declining yet politically reorganizing — shows that China is not only facing external challenges (e.g. pressure from the USA) but is also acting in a controlled manner internally.

Japan: Political change

A historic shift is underway in Japan: Sanae Takaichi, until now a leading figure in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is well on her way to becoming Japan's first female prime minister. She represents conservative policies ("ultra-conservative") – for example, on issues such as imperial succession and the equality of spouses.
Her election reflects internal tensions within the LDP (e.g., the withdrawal of partner party Komeito), and she assumes a role at a time when Japan is grappling with inflation, demographic change, and difficult diplomatic relations (with China, South Korea).
For Japan, this could mean a change of course in the areas of security, foreign policy, and possibly a stronger emphasis on national self-interest.

South Korea & APEC preparations

South Korea is undergoing intensive preparations for the upcoming APEC 2025 Summit (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation), which will take place in Gyeongju at the end of October/beginning of November. Security measures are extensive: approximately 18,500 personnel, anti-drone technology, armored vehicles, helicopters, and coast guard deployments are all being used.
Why such a large-scale event? Because top representatives from approximately 21 APEC countries are participating—including President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping—in light of escalating trade tensions between the US and China. It's therefore not just about economics, but also about security, diplomacy, and symbolism.

Weather event: Tropical storm in the Philippines

The Philippines were hit by Tropical Storm Fengshen, which claimed several lives over the weekend – at least eight dead – and forced the evacuation of around 27,000 people, primarily in Albay province. The storm, combined with heavy rain and a storm surge of up to two meters, caused widespread damage.
The event is part of a series of extreme natural events in the region, exacerbated by the monsoon and possible climate change effects.

Security situation: Pakistan & Afghanistan

A ceasefire was agreed upon in Doha on the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The negotiations, mediated by Qatar and Turkey, came after a period of heavy border fighting, Pakistani airstrikes on Kandahar and Kabul, and numerous civilian casualties. The ceasefire obliges both sides to cease hostilities and refrain from supporting opposing groups.
This opens a new phase in the already very tense security situation in South Asia, which also affects regional rivalries (e.g. with India).

More news

• In the health sector, cases of Chikungunya infections in China rose sharply — in the province of Guangdong from about 7,000 to 16,000 cases within two months.

• In the air transport sector, Air India announced 174 new weekly flights starting on October 26, 2025, to strengthen its winter flight program in India and to Southeast Asia.

• In terms of sports, football dominated in Asia: among other things, Jeonbuk Motors secured the title in the South Korean K-League for the first time in four years.

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Key points

• China: Growth Q3/2025 at 4.8% – the weakest year-on-year in a year.

• China: Preparation of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) with a focus on innovation and security.

• Japan: Sanae Takaichi is close to being appointed Prime Minister – a conservative course is expected.

• South Korea/APEC: Massive increase in security for APEC summit with US-China participation.

• Philippines: Tropical Storm Fengshen – at least eight dead, 27,000 evacuees.

• Pakistan & Afghanistan: Ceasefire agreed – important for regional stability.

• Health: Chikungunya outbreak in China – high case numbers in Guangdong.

• Transportation: Air India expands its winter flight schedule with 174 additional flights.