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.
Breaking Down Singapore’s 2023 Budget
By James Guild
The city-state's economic mandarins are signaling a return to normalcy after the waning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Will China Create a New State-Owned Enterprise to Monopolize Artificial Intelligence?
By Shaoshan Liu
Since AI has become essential to national interest, China may not be willing to leave its development in the hands of private companies.
China’s 3 Pathways to Green Steel
By Chin Hsueh
China’s steel industry is a crucial part of its decarbonization efforts – and thus the fate of the global fight against climate change.
Are Foreign Investors Returning to Southeast Asia in 2023?
By James Guild
With regional financial markets less dependent than ever on foreign capital, a lot less is hanging on the question than in years past.
Balancing ASEAN’s Internal and External Economic Integration
By Fajar Hidayat
While political crises dominate the bloc's attention, Indonesia can use its chairmanship to advance and recalibrate ASEAN's economic integration agenda.
ASEAN Needs to Prepare Now for the Future of Work
By Heng Molika
Amid rapid economic and technological changes, Southeast Asian governments need to offer generous subsidies for digital upskilling.
Indonesia and Malaysia Saw Strong Economic Growth in 2022
By James Guild
Last year saw several Southeast Asian economies bounce back from the distortions and restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Malaysia, Indonesia to Dispatch Envoys to EU Over Palm Oil Dispute
By Sebastian Strangio
The two nations hope to convince European regulators that their local certification efforts conform to the EU's rigorous new regulation on deforestation.
Rebalancing vs Decoupling: China-US Economic Ties and the Global Economy
By Ronald U. Mendoza
The hyper-competitive international production chains that have long characterized Asia's economies now face a significant political recalibration.
New EU Regulation Could Hurt Small Palm Oil Producers: Watchdog
By Sebastian Strangio
Joseph D'Cruz, the head of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), believes that Brussels' new rules could have a "human, social and developmental cost."
Where Are Southeast Asia’s Tech Companies Headed?
By James Guild
There is a wide gap between the performance of leading tech firms and the wider economies of the region.
Mitsubishi Scraps Development of Japan’s Homegrown Jet
By Takahashi Kosuke
MHI has abandoned the long-held dream of debuting Japan’s first advanced jet liner, citing the lack of profitability.