India expands strategic ties with East and Southeast Asian nations

India is strengthening strategic and economic ties with East and Southeast Asian nations, particularly South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. Bilateral trade between India and South Korea reached $25.6 billion in 2025, supported by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Future cooperation is expected to focus on emerging technologies, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and supply chain resilience, as outlined in the Joint Strategic Vision for 2026-2030.

As East Asian countries face shrinking workforces, there is an increasing demand for skilled professionals. This has led to expanded opportunities for Indian students and tech workers through scholarships and relaxed work visa requirements in countries like Japan and South Korea. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on people-to-people exchanges, including academic collaborations, language learning, and cultural cooperation involving K-pop, K-dramas, and traditional Indian arts.