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.
The Message Behind Indonesia’s Coal Export Ban
By James Guild
The move was less about coal shortages than about reminding Indonesia's private sector who is in charge.
China’s Transportation Plan Will Boost Post-Pandemic Logistics
By Sara Hsu
As China’s infrastructure improves further, it’s going to be harder than ever for U.S. multinationals to move to underdeveloped countries like Vietnam and Indonesia.
Indonesia’s Railway Renaissance
By James Guild
The Indonesian rail operator KAI remains one of the country’s more well-run and capable state-owned companies.
In Numbers: The Changing Composition of Populations in China, India, and Japan
By Diplomat Risk Intelligence
A new DRI Trendlines looks at demographics of three leading Asian powers, and how key variables paint a complicated and, in large parts, pessimistic picture.
Evergrande Still Looms Large Over Asian Markets’ 2022 Outlook
By Dmytro Spilka
Analysts expect a slowdown in 2022, but some sectors will buck the overall trend.
Environmental Issues Take Precedence in ASEAN’s Sustainable Finance Taxonomy
By Alex Burdulia
The first version of the bloc’s classification system would facilitate investment in environmentally sustainable activities, but human rights are not yet on the table.
Indonesia Loosens Coal Export Ban Amid Calls From Trading Partners
By Sebastian Strangio
The ban, imposed due to critically low stocks at domestic power plants, sent tremors through global coal markets.
Can VinFast Turn Vietnam Into an Electric Vehicle Powerhouse?
By James Guild
The competition to become the main player in the production of EVs in Southeast Asia is starting to heat up.
Indonesia Bans Coal Exports to Head Off Blackouts
By Sebastian Strangio
The move speaks to the political and economic importance of coal, and the difficulty Indonesia will have in organizing a transition to renewable energy.
China’s Core Economic Issues in 2022
By Sara Hsu
The real estate downturn and inflation will cause headaches in the new year, while the emphasis on common prosperity continues.
The Philippines Readies Public Services for 100 Percent Foreign Ownership
By James Guild
The Philippines has long led its Southeast Asian neighbors in the privatization of public services.
How Can SMEs Spur Inclusive Growth in Bangladesh?
By Alexander Ayertey Odonkor
One key effort must be developing a robust financial sector that can facilitate access to affordable finance for the SME sector.