Trade Remedies: Malaysia launched anti-dumping and expiry-review probes on steel imports, targeting flat rolled products and prepainted/coated coils from China, Taiwan and Vietnam, after domestic firms alleged dumping and injury. Semiconductors & Security: Samsung and SK Hynix are reportedly testing Chinese chipmaking tools to hedge against tighter US export controls, highlighting how sanctions can reshape supply chains. South China Sea Politics: Philippines VP Sara Duterte urged Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro to name officials accused of siding with China on the West Philippine Sea. India Courts & Justice: India’s court sentenced former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal to 10 years for rape of a junior colleague, overturning an earlier acquittal. Parliament & Rights: India’s government is set to take up the FCRA Amendment Bill on Aug 12 as Christian groups demand withdrawal or a Joint Parliamentary Committee review. Digital Governance: India’s Lok Sabha passed a bill allowing charges on UPI/e-payment modes; think tank GTRI warned against rewriting UPI under US pressure. Tech Oversight: India continued questioning Meta over Instagram algorithms and compliance, including deepfakes and CSAM concerns. Public Services & Inclusion: India expanded Digital India/BharatNet service-ready gram panchayats and scaled MY Bharat youth registrations and experiential learning. Disaster Response: Japan surgeons resumed operations after a major quake, with CCTV showing staff holding a shaking operating table. Regional Conservation: Japan hosted a workshop advancing Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) across Asia. China-Africa Water: China handed over a borehole and water-supply project to South Sudan to improve safe drinking water access.