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.
Vietnam’s Battle to Market Its Prized Rice
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
The case of ST25 drives home how important it is for countries, particularly developing countries, to develop strong intellectual property protection schemes.
Why US-China Rivalry Might Be Good for Singapore’s Semiconductor Industry
By James Guild
Global chip-makers are diversifying their supply chains to hedge against the risks of growing geopolitical competition.
Why the Indo-Pacific Business Summit Matters for India
By Sanchari Ghosh
The new platform is a chance to advance three of New Delhi’s key goals.
Illicit Enrichment Laws: Asia’s Ignored Anti-Corruption Weapon
By Andrew Dornbierer
Laws targeting unexplained wealth exist in many Asia-Pacific countries but are rarely used. They should be dusted off to tackle the region’s rampant corruption.
The Curious Case of Garuda Indonesia
By James Guild
The company's primary goal is not to make a profit for the Indonesian state.
Why ASEAN Needs to Reduce Its Non-Tariff Measures on Agri-Food Imports
By Sithanonxay Suvannaphakdy and Neo Guo Wei Kevin
Streamlining non-tariff barriers to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses remains a key priority for the region’s recovery from COVID-19.
US Firms Cannot Ignore the Growing Risks of a Possible China-US Military Conflict
By Sara Hsu
U.S. businesses need to consider the impact of a physical conflict on their Chinese production and distribution bases.
Does China Weaponize Lending?
By Robert Farley
China’s commitment to economic efficiency has always been colored by a desire to maximize political influence.
Vietnam, Singapore Begin Negotiations on Digital Trade Agreement
By Linh Tong
Despite all the challenges, an agreement between the two nations would further liberalize the digital trade environment in Southeast Asia.
The (Probable) Merger of Singapore’s Sembcorp Marine and Keppel Offshore & Marine, Explained
By James Guild
The deal reflects the logic of Singapore’s style of state capitalism, which gives the government a degree of control over strategic assets.
Reconsidering RCEP’s Impact on Foreign Investment
By Jean-Marc F. Blanchard and Wei Liang
What are RCEP’s economic and political implications? The first of a four-part series looks at the impact on FDI.
Indonesia Needs to Seek Out Alternative Sources for Biofuel
By Haryanto and Filda Citra Yusgiantoro
The country has abundant resources of biomass, a great potential source of renewable energy.