Asia News Wrap: China's two sessions begin, and more

Here are a few stories from around Asia you may have missed this week.

China's annual Two Sessions open

China on Wednesday began its annual Two sessions, an event that takes on extra importance this year as it prepares to unveil a new development plan for the world's second-largest economy. More than 2,000 political advisors attended the opening of the Fourth Session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) – the country's top political advisory body. Wang Huning, chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, delivered a report on the work of the Standing Committee of the CPPCC National Committee in the presence of President Xi Jinping and other Party and state leaders at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The top political advisor praised the significant progress the country has made in modernization, noting that China had achieved the major economic and social development goals set for 2025 and successfully completed the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025).

The CPPCC plays a crucial role in multi-party cooperation and political consultation under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. Its members include representatives from political parties, people's organizations, personages without party affiliation, and various sectors of society. The session continues until March 11.

Nepali votes in first election since Gen Z protests

Nepal held its general election on Thursday, the first since youth-led protests last September demanded an end to corruption, more jobs and cleaner politics. These protests forced the government to resign and resulted in the deaths of 77 people. For decades, the Himalayan nation has struggled with political instability, with 32 government changes since 1990. This has left its mainly agrarian economy strained and driven millions to seek employment abroad. Analysts say the centrist Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is now in the lead. Rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah, 35, joined the party in January as its prime ministerial candidate. A former mayor of Kathmandu, Shah became the face of the September protests and is running against K.P. Sharma Oli, 74, a four-time prime minister who resigned after the September killings of demonstrators.

AI law takes effect in Vietnam

A law regulating artificial intelligence (AI) took effect in Vietnam on Sunday, making it the first Southeast Asian country to establish a comprehensive framework for the technology. Passed by the National Assembly in December, the law focuses on the risks associated with generative AI and requires human oversight and control, similar to the European Union's AI Act. Many countries are working to address the dangers posed by chatbots and image generators – from misinformation and online abuse to copyright violations. The legislation, which took effect on March 1, "paves the way for Vietnam to align closely with international standards while preserving digital sovereignty." It requires companies to clearly label AI-generated content, such as deepfakes, that cannot be easily distinguished from reality. Additionally, it mandates that companies disclose to customers when they are interacting with an artificial agent instead of a human.

South Korea aims to phase out formal school uniforms

South Korea is moving to phase out traditional formal school uniforms amid growing concerns over high costs. The Education Ministry announced on Thursday that it will conduct a nationwide survey of middle and high school uniform prices and aims to replace formal-style uniforms with more practical options. The Korea Herald reported that, "The ministry plans to inspect about 5,700 middle and high schools through March 16. Officials will review uniform prices, bidding methods, selected contractors, and contract amounts to assess whether prices are reasonable." The move follows remarks by President Lee Jae Myung in February, when he said the cost of purchasing a school uniform had recently reached 600,000 won ($417) and instructed relevant ministries to examine pricing practices. Currently, 17 metropolitan and provincial education offices jointly set an annual price cap for formal-style uniforms. This year's cap remains at 344,530 won, unchanged from last year. However, the cap applies only to formal attire. When casual uniforms and sportswear are included, total expenses often exceed 600,000 won.

Myanmar starts rationing fuel for private vehicles due to Middle East shipping disruptions

Myanmar announced the launch of a sweeping fuel rationing system for private vehicles on Thursday, citing disruptions to the global energy supply chain caused by conflicts in the Middle East. The country's National Defense and Security Council stated that the new regulations, effective from March 7, 2026, are a response to "global political situations" and armed conflicts in the Middle East, which have hindered oil shipments. Under a new "even-odd" licensing scheme, vehicles with even-numbered plates will only be allowed to drive on even dates, while those with odd-numbered plates can only drive on odd dates, the announcement said. Electric vehicles and electric motorcycles are exempt.

(Cover: The Fourth Session of the 14th National People's Congress opened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, March 5, 2026. /CFP)