India: Supreme Court Challenges New Data Law
The Supreme Court has referred petitions to a Constitution Bench, arguing that the new Digital Personal Data Protection Act is being used to "cripple" the public's Right to Information (RTI).
Asia
China Extends UK and Canada Visa-Free Entry
China has announced an extension of visa-free entry for UK and Canadian citizens, aimed at enhancing travel and business ties while facilitating international engagement, with specific implementation details forthcoming from immigration authorities.
BNP Wins Landslide Victory in Bangladesh General Election
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party has won a landslide victory in the 13th national elections, promising democratic reforms and economic focus after securing a supermajority in parliament.
Japan Seizes Chinese Vessel, Arrests Captain
Tensions in the East China Sea spiked today after the Japanese Coast Guard seized a Chinese fishing boat and arrested its captain for operating in disputed territorial waters.
US and Taiwan Sign “Pivotal” Tariff-Cutting Deal to 15% From The Initial 20%
Defying warnings from Beijing, the U.S. has signed a major trade agreement with Taiwan to slash tariffs on high-tech goods, further complicating U.S.-China relations.
Bangladesh Holds Tense Post-Uprising Elections
Security has been tightened across Bangladesh as the country holds its first national elections since the 2024 uprising. Islamists are reportedly gaining ground in a high-stakes vote that will determine the country's democratic trajectory.
BASF Moves Global Hub to India
Chemical giant BASF announced a major restructuring of its Global Business Services, moving its Finance and HR hubs to India. The move aims to secure "long-term cost competitiveness" but has raised concerns about job losses in Europe.
Jimmy Lai Jailed for 20 Years as Hong Kong’s Security Law Tightens Grip
Hong Kong pro-democracy figure and media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years in prison, a ruling that has triggered sharp condemnation from Western governments and renewed scrutiny of the city’s security law.
