Myanmar: Military intensifies offensives in rare-earth and border regions 
On 25 May, Reuters reported on Myanmar's military launching renewed offensives across key border regions under new military Chief Ye Win Oo. Recent operations conducted are in areas of Kachin State near China, Chin State bordering India and Karen state near Thailand. These are critical areas as they host key trade routes. Kachin state is one of the heavy rare-earth mining sites that contribute to the world's supply of the rare-earth elements. They are essential for wind turbines and EVs. The military has gained control of some areas of Chin State and major transport routes in Kachin, said the military. Ethnic armed groups, such as the Kachin Independence Army and Karen National Union, say they are ready to stand firm in opposition to any further advances.
(“Myanmar military steps up fight for rare earth area and border routes,” Reuters, 25 May 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/myanmar-military-steps-up-fight-rare-earth-area-border-routes-2026-05-25/

Japan and China: Tokyo’s trade minister raises rare earth export concerns during APEC ministerial meeting amid tensions
On 24 May, Reuters reported that Japan’s Trade Minister Ryosei Akazawa stated that he held only a brief informal exchange with China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao during the APEC meetings in Suzhou. This is amid ongoing tensions between the two countries. During the APEC meeting, Akazawa criticised arbitrary export controls on rare earths. Further, highlighting growing concerns that China is using its dominance in critical minerals as diplomatic leverage. Beijing has reportedly halted shipments of several heavy rare earth materials, followed by a diplomatic dispute triggered by comments from Japan’s PM Takaichi over Taiwan.
(“Japan trade minister holds brief talks with Chinese counterpart amid diplomatic row, Reuters, 23 May 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/japan-trade-minister-holds-brief-talks-with-chinese-counterpart-amid-diplomatic-2026-05-23

The US and Philippines: Washington and Manila set to finalize the economic security zone soon
On 21 May, Reuters reported that, according to US Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg, the US is expected to finalize a long-term framework for an “economic security zone” with the Philippines soon. This zone is proposed as a part of Washington’s expanding “Pax Silica” initiative, aiming at securing technology supply chains of critical minerals, advanced manufacturing, and data infrastructure. The grouping has expanded from seven founding members to 15 countries, and may draw in additional nations in the near future, Helberg said. In addition, talks between Manila and Washington will revolve around industrial priorities and investment opportunities in the zone.
(“US, Philippines to reach deal on economic security zone 'sooner rather than later', US official says,” Reuters, 21 May 2026).
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/us-philippines-reach-deal-economic-security-zone-sooner-rather-than-later-us-2026-05-21/ 

Singapore: Digital Edge secures USD 575 million loan for Asia-Pacific expansion
On 21 May, Reuters reported that Singapore’s Digital Edge company, backed by US investment firm Stonepeak, has secured its first USD 575 million holding company loan. This loan aims to support AI expansion across the Asia-Pacific region. The funding will reportedly be allocated towards the expansion of hyperscale and AI-ready data center infrastructure in key markets such as Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, and India. This is amid the rising demand driven by AI and cloud computing growth. Furthermore, major financial institutions, including Deutsche Bank, MUFG, SMBC, Standard Chartered and BNP Paribas, participated in arranging the financing.
(“Singapore's Digital Edge closes $575 million loan to fund Asia-Pacific expansion,” Reuters, 21 May 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/singapores-digital-edge-closes-575-million-loan-fund-asia-pacific-expansion-2026-05-21/