News

The week in Asia is marked by trade tensions as President Trump prepares to announce tariffs on major trading partners, coinciding with the BIMSTEC summit in Thailand. Meanwhile, Muslims across the region celebrate Eid al-Fitr, while South Korea lifts its short-selling ban and the Bank of Japan releases its Tankan survey.

A powerful earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2011, killing over 1,600 people and causing widespread devastation in both Myanmar and neighboring Thailand. Rescue workers from around the world rushed to assist in the search and rescue efforts, while the international community provided aid and support to help with the recovery.

The Osaka Kansai Expo boasts the world's first hydrogen-powered vending machine, generating its own electricity through a chemical reaction between oxygen and hydrogen, resulting in zero carbon emissions and reduced energy consumption. This innovative technology, jointly developed by Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan and Fuji Electric Co., offers a sustainable solution for locations lacking access to electricity.

Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance and Aioi Nissay Dowa, Japan's third and fourth largest non-life insurers, will merge in April 2027, creating the nation's largest non-life insurer with combined sales exceeding industry leader Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance. This move aims to address the shrinking market and create a more efficient business through downsizing.

A report by the Japan Meteorological Agency and the science ministry warns that Japan could experience annual once-in-a-century heat waves if temperatures continue to rise significantly. The report highlights the urgency of climate action, as the average temperature in Japan has already risen 1.3 degrees above the level at the beginning of the 20th century.