Korea’s three major mobile operators agreed on 9 April 2026 to provide unlimited 400 Kbps data to all subscribers once monthly allowances expire, estimated to benefit over 7m users. The commitment, coordinated by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), implements the Digital Inclusion Act and follows a series of security breaches involving carriers and online platforms.

China’s booming market for artificial intelligence (AI) agents has drawn international attention due to the far-reaching economic, industrial and social impacts. This Global Trends report explains the context and significance of this new phenomenon. It also discusses how the Chinese government has been addressing both the opportunities and challenges brought by the fast adoption of AI agents in China. By updating several policies and laws, China is now the first country in the world specifically regulating AI agents.

The Korean Ministry of the Interior and Safety announced the deployment of an AI-based deepfake detection model for the 3 June local elections. The tool, developed jointly with the National Forensic Service, achieved 92% accuracy in verification tests. The move follows a sharp increase in election-related deepfake content, with over 10,000 cases detected during the 2025 presidential election.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has endorsed a new policy framework aimed at advancing cloud computing infrastructure and service adoption within the 11-member bloc. ASEAN member states (AMSs) expect that the establishment of trusted data corridors (TDCs) will “catalyse” binding bilateral or multilateral agreements on cross-border data flows. No specific TDC agreements between AMSs have been announced yet. This Global Trends Flash outlines the framework’s main features and how it compares with other approaches aimed at enabling trusted cross-border data flows observed internationally.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) issued its revised Internet Code of Practice in February 2026. The code is binding on all internet access service providers (IASPs) in Nigeria. This Global Trends Flash notes that the revised code preserves the existing net neutrality framework. It expands the rules for IASPs by adding obligations on child online safety and AI notification requirements. Lastly, it also strengthens NCC’s supervisory powers over digital platforms providers.

Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has launched what it describes as the world’s first governance framework for agentic artificial intelligence (AI). The framework provides organisations with practical guidance for deploying AI agents responsibly. First, by selecting appropriate use cases and limiting agents’ powers. Second, by embedding meaningful human oversight through defined approval checkpoints. Third, by applying technical safeguards throughout the agent lifecycle. Fourth, by promoting responsible use through transparency, education, and training. This Global Trend Flash highlights the framework’s key features.