Question 1

In early May 2026, South Korea's export data showed a significant year-on-year increase. Which product category was the primary driver of this surge, reaching a record high for the same period in May?

Accepted Answer

Semiconductors

Question 2

Which East Asian nation saw a substantial year-on-year increase of 42.9% in total foreign direct investment (FDI) in the first quarter of 2026, largely driven by new projects in manufacturing and processing?

Accepted Answer

Vietnam

Question 3

According to preliminary data for the first 10 days of May 2026, what percentage of South Korea's total exports did semiconductors account for, representing a significant year-on-year increase in their share?

Accepted Answer

46.3%

Question 4

In Q1 2026, Vietnam's FDI inflows reached US$15.2 billion. Which sector continued to attract the largest share of this new FDI, accounting for approximately 69% of the newly registered capital?

Accepted Answer

Manufacturing and Processing

Question 5

Thailand's exports reached a record high in March 2026, with a year-on-year increase of 18.7%. Which sector, driven by AI and data center technology, was a primary contributor to this growth?

Accepted Answer

Electronics and electrical appliances

Question 6

In early May 2026, South Korea's non-chip exports saw a significant decline. What was the value of these non-chip exports in the first 10 days of May, falling below $10 billion for the first time in seven months?

Accepted Answer

$9.9 billion

Question 7

During Q1 2026, Vietnam saw a significant increase in FDI. Which country was the largest single investor in Vietnam during this period, contributing approximately 52% of the total new capital?

Accepted Answer

Singapore

Question 8

In March 2026, Thailand's trade balance resulted in a deficit. What was the value of this trade deficit for the month?

Accepted Answer

US$3.34 billion

Question 9

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) reported strong Q1 2026 earnings. What was the year-over-year increase in TSMC's net revenue for this quarter?

Accepted Answer

40.6%

Question 10

According to data released in early May 2026, what was the approximate annual inflation rate in the Philippines for April 2026, which significantly exceeded the central bank's forecast?

Accepted Answer

7.2%

Question 11

In Q1 2026, China's GDP grew by 5.0% year-on-year. Which component of the economy experienced a significant surge of 14.7% year-on-year, contributing to this growth?

Accepted Answer

Exports

Question 12

Malaysia is aiming to attract a significant amount in green investments over the next decade. What is the projected range for this capital inflow, according to statements made in April 2026?

Accepted Answer

US$30-40 billion

Question 13

In early May 2026, South Korea's trade balance for the first 10 days of the month recorded a surplus. What was the approximate value of this trade surplus?

Accepted Answer

US$1.7 billion

Question 14

What was the projected annualized GDP growth rate for Japan in the first quarter of 2026, according to private sector forecasts compiled in mid-May 2026?

Accepted Answer

1.8%

Question 15

In Q1 2026, Vietnam's FDI disbursement reached a five-year high. What was the estimated value of this disbursed FDI for the quarter?

Accepted Answer

US$5.41 billion

Question 16

In April 2026, the Philippines reported its highest inflation rate in three years. What was this rate?

Accepted Answer

7.2%

Question 17

As of early May 2026, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) raised its policy rate to what percentage to combat rising inflation?

Accepted Answer

4.5%

Question 18

Which of the following factors was identified as a key driver for the projected GDP growth in Japan for Q1 2026, despite some global economic uncertainties?

Accepted Answer

A recovery in exports and solid domestic demand

Question 19

In Q1 2026, China's industrial producer purchase price index (PPI) turned positive year-on-year for the first time in over three years. What was the percentage increase in March 2026?

Accepted Answer

0.8%

Question 20

In early May 2026, Singapore's fintech sector was noted for its progress in specific areas. Which of the following was highlighted as a key area of advancement and innovation?

Accepted Answer

Cross-border payment systems through Project Nexus and tokenised assets

East Asia Economic Pulse: Semiconductor Surge, FDI Shifts, and Inflationary Pressures

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