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.
How the US Can Win the Chips War With China
By Seth D. Kaplan
Special manufacturing innovation zones are a better option than the subsidies found in the CHIPS Act.
Is the US Ready to Expand Its Strategic Economic Footprint in Southeast Asia?
By James Guild
During her recent visit to the Philippines, Vice President Kamala Harris indicated that the U.S. is ready to step up its economic engagement in strategic sectors.
The Reality of Vietnam’s Energy Transition
By Kathryn Neville
The country has emerged as a regional leader in renewables, but some thorny challenges lie ahead.
Southeast Asia’s Month of Summits
By James Guild
The three major summits showcased the region's desire to remain aloof from growing strategic tensions between Russia, China, and the West.
Taiwan’s APEC Envoy at the Center of China-US Tech Tensions
By Johnson Lai and Joe McDonald
TSMC founder Morris Chang is once again Taiwan’s representative at this week’s APEC summit.
Asia-Pacific Leaders to Tackle Trade, Sustainability in Bangkok
By Chalida Ekvitthayavechnukul
Thai officials are hoping to steer discussions away from the Ukraine war toward issues including climate change, economic disruptions, and COVID-19 recovery.
Indonesia Signs Deals to Accelerate Clean Energy Transition
By Niniek Karmini and Sibi Arasu
The agreements were an important step for the country, a major exporter of coal that has abundant green energy potential.
Asia’s Development Model Is Now Jeopardizing Its Future Economic Growth
By Saul Estrin and Simon Commander
Asia is facing an economic watershed moment. Turning the corner will require rethinking the role of its dominant, state-supported business groups.
What is Slowing Down Vietnam’s Transport Infrastructure Projects?
By James Guild
Among other things, the country's land acquisition procedures are creaky, opaque, and difficult to appeal.
Why ASEAN Needs a Region-Wide Digital Payment System
By Leang Seakleng
An inclusive and user-friendly system could deepen Southeast Asian integration and generate economic benefits for the region's 668 million people.
Why Asia Needs ‘Just Climate Finance’
By Mickey Eva
We are now facing not just a climate crisis, but also an inequality crisis. COP27 must address both challenges by financing a just climate transition.
China Trade Down on Weak Global Demand, COVID Restrictions
By Joe McDonald
Even as China’s overall trade numbers dropped year-on-year in October, its trade surpluses with the U.S. and EU grew.