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.
Rights Group Reports Allegations of Dozens of Abuses in Critical Minerals Supply Chains
By Aniruddha Ghosal
Chinese-invested companies have come under increased scrutiny for environmental and labor abuses as demand for critical minerals soars.
Why Aren’t Thailand’s Banks More Profitable?
By James Guild
Compared to their counterparts in Indonesia and the Philippines, the country's financial institutions have seen only modest growth.
Does the China-Africa Trade Expo Matter?
By Ovigwe Eguegu and Hannah Ryder
The third China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) will need to build on past lessons and successes to really reshape China-Africa trade.
Military Coup Has Inflicted ‘Permanent’ Damage on Myanmar, World Bank Says
By Sebastian Strangio
In its latest Myanmar Economic Monitor, the Bank predicted that the country will not return to pre-COVID-19 economic levels until at least 2027.
Is Indonesia’s New High-Speed Rail Line Worth It?
By James Guild
Whether or not the rail line turns a profit, Jakarta is hoping that the project brings a wider range of subsidiary benefits.
Pakistan: Escaping the Sovereign Debt Trap
By Samir Tata
The key to escape Pakistan’s sovereign debt trap is hiding in plain sight – deleveraging.
How Last Week’s High-profile Resignation Will Impact the AIIB
By Kearrin Sims
Despite the bad press that it generated, Canadian Bob Pickard's resignation from the Beijing-based development bank is unlikely to have a lasting impact.
Who Pays and Who Profits From High Energy Prices in Thailand?
By James Guild
Many governments are facing the question of whether to absorb rising energy prices, or put the burden on the shoulders of consumers.
How Vietnam Can Disrupt China’s Dominance in EVs
By Hugh Harsono
There's a long way to go, but the country has most of the ingredients it needs to be a significant player in global EV supply chains.
Toyota Shareholders Reject Proposal Demanding Better Performance on Climate Change
By Yuri Kageyama
Toyota's chairman, Akio Toyoda, and other company officials defended their green record.
ASEAN’s Cross-Border Digital Payment System Explained
By James Guild
Greater financial integration is good for consumers and travelers, but it won't end Southeast Asia's dependence on the U.S. dollar.
Can IPEF Protect Corporate Supply Chains?
By SUKEGAWA Seiya
An IPEF agreement notwithstanding, companies in the Indo-Pacific will still be at risk of disruptions to their supply networks.