# Asia-Pacific
Latest news and articles about Asia-Pacific
Total: 3 articles found
Beijing Sets 2026 Defence Budget at ¥1.94 Trillion, Signalling Continued Military Modernisation
China’s 2026 national budget allocates 1.94 trillion yuan to defence, roughly $270–280 billion, reinforcing a steady trajectory of military modernisation. The public figure understates total military-related spending and will shape strategic calculations across the Asia‑Pacific and beyond.
Takaichi’s Gambit: Japan’s Election Win Paves Way for Arms Exports and Regional Frictions
Sanae Takaichi’s decisive electoral victory has unlocked a push to lift Japan’s long-standing ban on lethal weapons exports, signalling a major shift in Tokyo’s postwar defence posture. The change promises economic opportunities for Japan’s defence industry but risks heightening regional tensions and provoking strong responses from China and neighbouring states.
China Kicks Off APEC “China Year” with Senior Officials Meeting in Guangzhou
China will host APEC’s first senior officials meeting and related events in Guangzhou from February 1–10, launching the country’s 2026 APEC presidency under the theme of an Asia‑Pacific community for common prosperity. The meetings aim to operationalize priorities of openness, innovation and cooperation ahead of the leaders’ informal summit in November.