News Digest

Matcha, the bright-green tea powder from Japan, has become so popular that producers are straining to meet the surge in global demand, fueled by social media hype and a boom in tourism to Japan, according to vendors.

(37 words)

Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals dropped 6% in early 2025, with a 4.22% revenue decline. Japan has surpassed Thailand in visitor numbers, attracting 21.5 million tourists, boosted by a weak yen and strong infrastructure.

(33 words)

An 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula triggered tsunami waves reaching Japan, Hawaii, and the US west coast, marking one of the most powerful quakes ever recorded.

(28 words)

India’s Home Minister’s call to prioritize native languages sparked debate on national identity. Critics argue that rejecting English risks global competitiveness and discards a colonial legacy that enables India’s fluency in the language of international business.

(36 words)

Border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have escalated significantly with their armies continuing to exchange fire on Friday, leaving "more than 20 deaths" in Thailand, according to the acting Thai prime minister, and one civilian dead in Cambodia.

(38 words)

President Trump’s push to introduce a new standard for global trade is coming into sharper focus as US and EU officials converge on a possible 15% tariff deal, which could come on the heels of a similar agreement with Japan.

(40 words)

Japan’s ruling coalition lost its upper house majority, but Prime Minister Ishiba won’t resign, saying he accepts the brutal result and will prioritize trade negotiations.

(25 words)

Japan is facing its most severe security environment since World War II as three potential adversaries in East Asia – China, Russia and North Korea – ramp up military activities in the region, the country’s defense minister said.

(36 words)

New research shows social media use affects parent-child interactions, even when adults aren’t on their phones. Since language exposure is crucial for child development, reduced interaction may impact kids' brain growth and communication skills.

(34 words)

The black leather Hermes handbag made some 40 years ago for the late singer and actor Jane Birkin was sold in a bidding war that lasted more than 10 minutes at Sotheby’s in Paris.

(34 words)