Blog

Pacific Money

The 21st century is commonly referred to as the 'Pacific Century.' For such a prediction to materialize, the economies of the Asia-Pacific must lead the globe. What challenges will the region face? What nations stand to benefit most? The Diplomat's economics and business blog, Pacific Money, will try to tackle these questions and more.

Page 2 of 161
Taiwan’s Semiconductor Talent Shortage

Taiwan’s Semiconductor Talent Shortage

By Ray Wang
The island's famed semiconductor sector is struggling to recruit sufficient numbers of chipmakers, posing a long-term threat to the industry.
The 2024 Indonesian Election is All About the Economy

The 2024 Indonesian Election is All About the Economy

By James Guild
The country's economy has grown by an average of 4.2 percent each year that Jokowi has been in office – and voters want more of the same.

What South African Rooibos Tea Can Tell Us About Africa-China Trade Flows

What South African Rooibos Tea Can Tell Us About Africa-China Trade Flows

By Rosie Wigmore
The example of South Africa’s famous tea variety speaks to unfinished business in expanding African exports to China – including Beijing’s recognition of African Geographical Indications.

China Names a New Stock Regulator in a Bid to Soothe Markets

China Names a New Stock Regulator in a Bid to Soothe Markets

By Elaine Kurtenbach
Wu Qing, a former chair of the Shanghai Stock Exchange with a reputation for being tough on market misbehavior, is the new head of the China Securities Regulatory Commission.

Why Vietnam Agreed to Supply the Philippines with Rice For Five Years

Why Vietnam Agreed to Supply the Philippines with Rice For Five Years

By James Guild
The arrangement is an encouraging example of Southeast Asian solidarity and regional self-sufficiency.
How China’s EVs are Taking Thailand by Storm

How China’s EVs are Taking Thailand by Storm

By Li Xirui
Chinese automakers have succeeded in the Thai market by adopting comprehensive localization strategies.

The Role of Thailand in Germany’s Auto Manufacturing Future

The Role of Thailand in Germany’s Auto Manufacturing Future

By Tim Hildebrandt
German-Thai cooperation encapsulates the complex dance between strategic competition and global industry dynamics.
Greenflation and the Role of Prices in Clean Energy Transitions

Greenflation and the Role of Prices in Clean Energy Transitions

By James Guild
The shift to renewable energy inevitably involves massive costs. The question is: who should pay?

China Evergrande, Facing $300 Billion in Debt, Has Been Ordered to Liquidate

China Evergrande, Facing $300 Billion in Debt, Has Been Ordered to Liquidate

By Kanis Leung and Zen Soo
China Evergrande Group is among dozens of Chinese developers that have collapsed since 2020 under official pressure to rein in surging debt.

Bhutan’s Long Journey Into the World Trade Organization

Bhutan’s Long Journey Into the World Trade Organization

By Ladislav Charouz
25 years after Bhutan first applied to join the WTO, recent developments seem to be giving Thimphu a final push. 

Why PhilHealth Doesn’t Need to Raise Premiums in 2024

Why PhilHealth Doesn’t Need to Raise Premiums in 2024

By James Guild
With inflation continuing to rise, a scheduled premium increase seems likely to be suspended.
Will China Move Toward a ‘War-Driven’ Economy?

Will China Move Toward a ‘War-Driven’ Economy?

By Kung Chan and He Jun
A full pivot to war preparations is unlikely, but China will continue to shift toward a fully centralized economy. 

Page 2 of 161