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.
Bangkok Spends Big on Public Transit
By James Guild
The Thai capital is undertaking a range of efforts to keep pace with the rapid growth in private vehicle ownership.
Economic Logic Alone Will Not Curb ASEAN’s Carbon Emissions
By James Guild
The hard political choices involved in phasing out coal and reducing emissions are the most important, and also the most often elided, element.
The Challenge of Modernizing a Navy: Malaysia’s Boustead Heavy Industries
By James Guild
A decade ago, the Malaysian shipbuilder was in fine health. Now it finds itself in financial straits.
China’s ‘Circular 15’ Addresses Local Governments’ Hidden Debts
By Sara Hsu
Local government financing vehicle bonds are coming under increasing scrutiny as a source of financial risk.
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.