AGN Morning Update | 22 April 2025

Malaysia backs China’s trade reforms | Pope Francis dies at 88 | Indonesia reports trade surge

Malaysia
Tengku Zafrul, Malaysia’s Trade Minister, has praised China’s new domestic consumption policies. Highlighting JD.com’s major US$27 billion purchase commitment from local exporters, Zafrul says the move could reduce pressure on ASEAN markets stemming from China’s restricted U.S. access. Malaysia is expected to seek closer collaboration under these new private-sector driven strategies.

International
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, has passed away at age 88. Known for his reformist vision and humility, his unexpected death shocked many after appearing in public on Easter Sunday. Tributes poured in globally, recognizing his impact on interfaith dialogue, the poor, and modern Church transparency. His 12-year papacy was marked by both admiration and criticism from conservatives and progressives alike.

Asia
Indonesia’s March trade surplus has reached a four-month high of US$4.33 billion—well above forecasts. Surging exports of palm oil and nickel metals helped drive the increase, with many exporters accelerating shipments ahead of pending U.S. tariffs. Footwear, electronics, and apparel sales to the U.S. saw double-digit growth, contributing to Indonesia’s overall Q1 trade surplus of US$10.92 billion.

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