Asian nations are increasing international student recruitment as Western countries tighten rules. China, Japan, and South Korea are expanding their higher education targets significantly. These Asian hubs offer lower costs and improving academic quality to attract students. However, retaining graduates presents a major challenge for these emerging destinations. Success hinges on accommodating foreign talent and integrating them into local economies.

Rising hostility to immigrants and a perception that students are reducing the availability of affordable accommodation have led to more restrictive visa rules.

Amid an anglophone crackdown on overseas enrolments, several East Asian nations have set and surpassed ambitious recruitment targets of their own. But are they getting what they…