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.

US and Europe: 2 Different Approaches to Restricting Chinese EVs

US and Europe: 2 Different Approaches to Restricting Chinese EVs

By You Wang
As China's overcapacity becomes a buzzword, restrictions on Chinese electric vehicles are expected. However, the objectives, approaches, and anticipated outcomes differ between Europe and the U.S.

Apple Considering Opening a Factory in Indonesia, CEO Says

Apple Considering Opening a Factory in Indonesia, CEO Says

By Sebastian Strangio
Tim Cook said that the giant tech firm would "look at" options in Indonesia, as it continues to reduce its heavy reliance on Chinese supply chains.
Beyond Tariffs: Overcapacity Ignites Fresh Tensions in China-US Trade Relations

Beyond Tariffs: Overcapacity Ignites Fresh Tensions in China-US Trade Relations

By Lizzi C. Lee
Traditional tools no longer suffice. Policymakers in both countries must embrace paradigm-shifting solutions for new challenges.

Does Thailand’s Plan to Finance Its 500 Billion Baht Stimulus Make Sense?

Does Thailand’s Plan to Finance Its 500 Billion Baht Stimulus Make Sense?

By James Guild
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's government has struggled to fund its massive "digital wallet" stimulus program.

Behind the EU’s New Probe Into China’s Green Tech Subsidies

Behind the EU’s New Probe Into China’s Green Tech Subsidies

By Valeria Fappani and Blanca Marabini San Martín
The latest probe is just the beginning of EU efforts to adjust to a “new world” focused on economic security. 

Indonesia’s Scorpene Submarine Deal With France, Explained

Indonesia’s Scorpene Submarine Deal With France, Explained

By James Guild
Under the terms of the long-awaited deal, two of the French submarines will be built in Indonesia by the state shipbuilding firm PT PAL.

Southeast Asian Tech Giants Poised for Profitability in 2024

Southeast Asian Tech Giants Poised for Profitability in 2024

By James Guild
After years of breakneck expansion, many of the biggest players are beginning to turn their attention toward maximizing profits.
World Bank: Debt, Trade Barriers and Uncertainty Will Drag on Asian Economies in 2024

World Bank: Debt, Trade Barriers and Uncertainty Will Drag on Asian Economies in 2024

By Elaine Kurtenbach
A new World Bank report says Asian economies are not doing as well as they could be.

Amid Geopolitical Concerns, US Capital Flows From China to Japan

Amid Geopolitical Concerns, US Capital Flows From China to Japan

By Grace Shao
While China’s global growth story is hitting a rough patch, in Asia, we’ve now officially entered the era of Japan’s revitalization. 

Chinese EV Makers Challenging Market Leaders at Auto Show in Bangkok

Chinese EV Makers Challenging Market Leaders at Auto Show in Bangkok

By Elaine Kurtenbach
Companies like BYD, XPeng and Great Wall Motors are quickly growing their sales in Thailand, challenging longstanding market leaders.

Why TikTok Showed Indonesia’s GoTo Some Goodwill in 2023

Why TikTok Showed Indonesia’s GoTo Some Goodwill in 2023

By James Guild
Partnering with the Indonesian tech giant will let TikTok regain access to the country’s e-commerce market, while providing the former with much-needed capital.
The Rise of Indonesia’s Banks

The Rise of Indonesia’s Banks

By James Guild
The sector has made a roaring recovery since the doldrums of the Asian Financial Crisis of the late 1990s.

Page 1 of 162