ASEAN News Brief - May 29, 2026

Vietnam: Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan and Thai Deputy Prime Minister Yodchanan Wongsawat exchanged letters of intent in Bangkok on the 28th, reaffirming their commitment to the 2017 science and innovation agreement. Minister Vu also met with Singaporean Ambassador Rajpal Singh to discuss AI and digital economy cooperation. Laos: The newly established 'China-Laos Silk Road College' aims to improve medical standards in Laos through professional training based on Chinese standards, in partnership with Champasak Hospital. Singapore: Mandai Wildlife Group has opened the East zone of Rainforest Wild Adventure, aiming to significantly boost annual visitor numbers. Philippines: The trade deficit reached $5.97 billion in April, with exports rising 6.3% to $7.21 billion and imports surging 22.4% to $13.17 billion. Myanmar: Myanmar and China signed a cooperation agreement for the 2026 Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Special Fund, covering eight projects including agriculture and energy. Malaysia: Official reserve assets increased to $129.73 billion by the end of April. Thailand: Foreign condo purchases dropped 17.3% to 3,241 units in Q1 due to weakening Chinese demand. Cambodia: The Royal Academy of Cambodia called for stronger support for local products and the expansion of the processing industry. Indonesia: Businesses in the palm oil and coal sectors expressed concerns over the government's new single-window export mechanism, fearing supply chain disruptions.