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.
A Reality Check on China-US Decoupling
By Tamás Mészáros
Decoupling rhetoric masks the fact that the United States and China play very different economic roles in East Asia and possess very different sources of economic power.
Southeast Asia’s Post-Pandemic Tourism Revival
By James Guild
Regional tourism is finally rebounding from the impacts of COVID-19. Will Southeast Asian government do things differently this time around?
TikTok Dismisses US Calls for Chinese Owners to Sell Stakes
By Associated Press
Following reports that CFIUS is seeking to force Chinese firm ByteDance to divest from the popular app, both TikTok and China's government hit back.
Thailand, EU Agree to Restart Free Trade Pact Negotiations
By Sebastian Strangio
Brussels called a halt negotiations in mid-2014, shortly after the Thai military seized power in a coup.
Indonesia’s EV Shift Requires a Mindset Shift
By Massita Ayu Cindy and Michael Suryaprawira
The promotion of electric vehicles must take place in tandem with efforts to reduce the overall number of cars on Indonesian roads.
Vietnam Has a Long Way to Go on Decarbonization
By Vincenzo Caporale
In order to attract foreign investment in zero-carbon energy sources, the government will have to undertake serious structural reforms.
Is the New Bank of Japan Governor Up to the Task?
By KOMINE Takao
Incoming BOJ head Ueda Kazuo faces some difficult challenges.
Why Will People Want to Live in Indonesia’s New Capital?
By James Guild
Despite the government's expansive vision, purpose-built, concept-driven projects like Nusantara have a poor track record of success.
Indonesia Announces Subsidies to Boost EV Uptake
By Sebastian Strangio
President Joko Widodo is hoping to transform Indonesia into a leading manufacturer of batteries and electric vehicles.
China’s New Legislation on Deepfakes: Should the Rest of Asia Follow Suit?
By Asha Hemrajani
China’s new regulations on deepfakes are the most comprehensive in the world. Will they provide a model for the rest of Asia to follow?
Why Vietnam’s State-Owned Electric Utility EVN is in Financial Trouble
By James Guild
According to recent reports, the utility is posting huge losses and may run out of cash as early as May.
In China, Lawyers Don’t Need to Keep Your Secrets
By Bonnie Girard
China has many of the trappings of a Western legal system, but lacks the substance – including a guarantee of attorney-client privilege.