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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.
Lessons From Lithuania: How ASEAN Can Manage Economic Risks With China
By Shay Wester
Lithuania’s experience provides a wake-up call for Southeast Asia about the risks of economic coercion.
Malaysia Unveils Plans to Become Next Global Chip Hub
By Sebastian Strangio
Anwar Ibrahim has pitched Malaysia to foreign chipmakers as "the most neutral and non-aligned location for semiconductor production."
Semiconductor Agreement at Japan-US Summit
By SUZUKI Kazuto
The two countries move forward with cooperation, despite some diverging interests.
Did Illegal Tin Mines Really Steal $26 Billion From the Indonesian State?
By James Guild
The Indonesian government recently brought corruption charges against Harvey Moeis, a wealthy businessman with interests in the mining sector.
New Energy Competition: It’s Politics First for Both US and China
By Rakshith Shetty
Both China and the U.S. are looking to tariffs and other trade barriers to protect their clean energy industries. The outcome is likely to be a more protectionist world economy.
Thailand’s Showdown Over Interest Rates, Explained
By James Guild
The economic rationale of the Bank of Thailand, and the political incentives of the current government, have been at odds since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Musk to ‘Consider’ Opening Battery Plant in Indonesia, Senior Official Says
By Sebastian Strangio
A Tesla investment would be a significant vote of confidence in Jakarta's ambition of becoming an EV production powerhouse.
Why the US Must Rethink Its Strategy to Compete With China in the EV Market
By Lizzi C. Lee
Washington should draw from Beijing’s industrial policies, avoid its pitfalls, and leverage America’s unique strengths to outshine China in the global EV market.
The Philippines’ $35 Billion Military Modernization Plan, Explained
By James Guild
Manila is seeking to take a major step forward in the modernization of its armed forces, but current economic conditions are challenging.
2023 Was Another Big Year for Indonesian Cinema
By James Guild
Box office receipts have to return to their pre-pandemic levels, but locally-made films are making up a greater proportion of ticket sales.
The Data Quagmire for German Carmakers in China
By Rebecca Arcesati
The renewal of the Sino-German MoU on autonomous vehicles opens up questions around data privacy, security, and Germany’s industrial competitiveness.
Despite the ‘De-risking’ Buzz, Some Multinationals Are Doubling Down in China
By Thomas Zhang
In the future we are likely to see fewer new entrants into the Chinese market, while players with established operations there will get bigger and stronger, more focused on serving Chinese consumers and businesses.