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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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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?
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.
How the UAE is Making a Splash in Indonesia’s Clean Energy Sector
By James Guild
Masdar’s willingness to work within the constraints of the country's political economy offers important lessons for the U.S.-backed Just Energy Transition Partnership.