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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.

Indonesia Is on the Verge of Natural Gas Dilemma

Indonesia Is on the Verge of Natural Gas Dilemma

By Rafi Adis Subarna
Having accorded natural gas an important place in its energy transition, Jakarta faces a growing imbalance between rising consumption and falling domestic production.

The Financial Scandal at Indonesian Tech Unicorn eFishery, Explained

The Financial Scandal at Indonesian Tech Unicorn eFishery, Explained

By James Guild
The agritech firm's troubles reflect some of the broader challenges facing Indonesia's nascent tech sector.
Apple Considering iPhone Manufacturing Facilities in Indonesia: Report

Apple Considering iPhone Manufacturing Facilities in Indonesia: Report

By Sebastian Strangio
The move could be part of the U.S. tech giant's strategy to lift a government-imposed sales ban on its latest model.

What Does the DeepSeek Disruption Mean for Southeast Asia?

What Does the DeepSeek Disruption Mean for Southeast Asia?

By Jonathan Chin
DeepSeek’s low cost – and low computing power – model will have ramifications for Southeast Asia’s bet on data centers.

China’s Overlooked AI Energy Edge Over the US: Cheaper Energy

China’s Overlooked AI Energy Edge Over the US: Cheaper Energy

By Sara Hsu
Much attention has been given to semiconductors, but it’s time to look at other elements in the AI supply chain that provide China with an advantage – starting with electricity. 

What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?
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What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?

Indonesia Approves Creation of Second Sovereign Investment Fund

Indonesia Approves Creation of Second Sovereign Investment Fund

By Sebastian Strangio
The Danantara fund, which will be seeded with at least $61 billion, will be placed under the direct supervision of the president's office.

The Big Myth About China’s Low Consumption

The Big Myth About China’s Low Consumption

By Xiaochen Su
Contrary to popular belief, Chinese consumers already spend much more of what they earn than their American counterparts. Low wages are to blame for stagnant consumption.
The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, Explained

The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, Explained

By James Guild
The project is intended to bring together Malaysia's land and labor with Singaporean finance and investment.

China’s AI Shock? What DeepSeek Disrupts (and Doesn’t)

China’s AI Shock? What DeepSeek Disrupts (and Doesn’t)

By Kai-Shen Huang
DeepSeek’s success is not based on outperforming its U.S. counterparts, but on delivering similar results at significantly lower costs. The AI price war has begun.

Why India’s Growth Momentum Is Losing Steam

Why India’s Growth Momentum Is Losing Steam

By Biswajit Dhar
The slowdown should be a wake-up call for the government to take remedial action, especially to address weakness on the demand side.

Mongolia at Davos 2025: AI and Emerging Industries

Mongolia at Davos 2025: AI and Emerging Industries

By Bolor Lkhaajav
At the 2025 World Economic Forum, Mongolia’s delegation pursued opportunities to attract investment in all things AI.
With Trump Back in the White House, the Age of Free Trade Could Be Coming to an End

With Trump Back in the White House, the Age of Free Trade Could Be Coming to an End

By Sami Bensassi and Agelos Delis
China did very well in a rule-based trade system. But it’s far less clear how the country will sustain its surging exports in the more protectionist world envisioned by Trump.

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