CNA Correspondent

Deborah Elms, a trade expert at the Heinrich Foundation, and Leong Wai Kit, a speaker specializing in U.S.-ASEAN relations, dive into the complexities of global trade under U.S. tariffs. They explore why countries still engage with the U.S. despite high levies, drawing parallels to historical trade policies like the Smoot-Hawley Act. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by businesses amidst inflation and uncertainty, as well as strategies ASEAN countries are adopting for economic integration in this shifting trade landscape.

Amid a ceasefire agreement, those living along the Thai-Cambodian border are expressing cautious optimism on whether peace will last. Teresa Tang speaks to CNA correspondents Jack Board and Leong Wai Kit as they cover developments on the ground.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysia's landfills will be full by 2050. Officials are weighing their options as advocates push for better compost and recycling systems in the country. CNA correspondent Rashvin Bedi digs into the problem with Teresa Tang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thailand and Cambodia have a long-standing agreement to resolve border issues bilaterally. But on Jul 24, simmering tensions boiled over when troops on both sides exchanged fire, with reports of several civilian casualties. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has called on the United Nations Security Council to intervene. But who will lay down arms first to begin a diplomatic solution? Genevieve Woo speaks with CNA correspondent Saksith Saiyasombut on this special episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this discussion, Michiyo Ishida, a seasoned CNA senior correspondent specializing in Japanese politics, shares expert insights on Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's recent electoral setback. The conversation delves into the implications of the ruling coalition losing its majority, exploring public discontent over rising prices and calls for tax reform. Ishida also discusses the emergence of the far-right Sanseito Party and its appeal to younger voters, as well as potential ramifications for U.S. trade negotiations under Ishiba's weakened leadership.

The price of rice in Japan has more than doubled since 2024, while in neighbouring South Korea the grain is practically being given away for free. Teresa Tang speaks to correspondents Michiyo Ishida and Lim Yun Suk about what's behind the disparity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Food vendors are a fixture on the streets of the Thai capital, often crowding pedestrian pathways. Officials now want to tidy things up by moving the stands to central, open-air food courts. But not everyone agrees with the idea. Teresa Tang speaks to CNA correspondent Jack Board to find out why.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Journeys that once took hours now take only half the time. Bullet trains and high-tech infrastructure have changed the way we think about time and distance. And the evolution continues, as Beijing and Tokyo move forward with their visions of the future. CNA's Tan Si Hui and Michiyo Ishida join Teresa Tang in this episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Busan is South Korea's second-largest city and biggest port. But despite its reputation as a vibrant metropolis, it's facing the threat of extinction. As the population ages and young people leave for better opportunities, city officials are doing all they can to prevent it from turning into a ghost town. CNA's Lim Yun Suk sits down with Teresa Tang in this episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tensions, absences and quiet chats at Asia’s premier security summit. The US sent Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth but China left its defence minister at home for this year’s summit. CNA’s Olivia Siong and Leong Wai Kit tell Arnold Gay whether Dong Jun’s absence affected Beijing’s messaging and why the summit is similar to speed dating, with defence officials meeting and mingling to seal alliances and agreements.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.