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.
The Scandal at Indonesia’s State-Owned Energy Firm Pertamina, Explained
By James Guild
Five oil executives have been arrested for importing fuel at inflated prices. What explains the timing?
How US Companies in China Can Survive
By Chris Deri
American companies caught in the middle of China-U.S. competition should remember: all geopolitics is local.
AI, Influence, and Power: How China is Reshaping Central Europe’s Digital Future
By Leo Tran
Chinese tech is now deeply embedded in Central and Eastern Europe’s digital backbone.
Singapore’s Budget 2025, Explained
By James Guild
Above-target tax revenues have pushed the city-state back into fiscal surplus for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sri Lanka’s 2025 Budget: Balancing IMF Commitments and Domestic Priorities
By Tharindu Udayanga Kamburawala
The 2025 budget – the first under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake – reveals a delicate balancing act between adhering to IMF mandates and addressing domestic economic realities.
Indonesia, Apple Agree Terms For Lifting iPhone Sales Ban: Report
By Sebastian Strangio
Jakarta banned the sale of the firm's latest smartphone in October for failing to comply with rules requiring the use of locally made components.
Why Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad Is Going Private
By James Guild
When is privatization not really privatization?
DeepSeek Reflects Both the Success and Failure of US Tech Containment Against China
By Zhipei Chi
China’s most successful AI product embodies the paradox of export controls: they can be successful and still fail to achieve the ultimate strategic goal.
Why Are Some Chinese EV Startups Failing Despite the Industry’s Global Success?
By Zhen Zhang, Peng Gao, and Yayuan Mo
China’s EV industry stands at a crossroads, with its rapid expansion reshaping global supply chains and industrial landscapes.
The Secret Behind Temu’s Rock-bottom Prices
By Henri Isaac
Temu’s success is due to its ultra-low prices, which many argue are made possible only through questionable practices. The full picture is more complicated.
Why Sovereign Wealth Funds Are All the Rage in Southeast Asia
By James Guild
In an uncertain global climate, the state is playing a more assertive role in financial and capital markets.
The Nickel-based Industrial Paradox: Indonesian Resources, Chinese Profits
By Ahmad Syarif
Do Jakarta's industrial incentives reflect misaligned priorities?
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