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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.
Cebu Pacific’s $24 Billion Dollar Bet on Cheap Flights
By James Guild
The company's planned acquisition of a new Airbus fleet reflects a bullish confidence about the future of the regional tourism industry.
China’s BYD Opens EV Factory in Thailand, Expanding Regional Presence
By Sebastian Strangio
The factory is the Chinese automaker's first in Southeast Asia, where it already dominates the fast-growing market for electric vehicles.
Why Indonesia’s State-Owned Railway Company Is Taking On Debt
By James Guild
A costly China-backed high-speed rail project has increased scrutiny of Kereta Api Indonesia's finances.
Another Trade War? Escalating Friction in Indonesia-EU Relations
By Michio Ueda
The discord between Indonesia and the EU over nickel and deforestation issues reflect broader challenges facing the global order.
Indonesia Announces Hefty Tariffs on Chinese-made Goods
By Sebastian Strangio
The country’s small businesses could “collapse" under a flood of low-cost Chinese goods, the country's trade minister said.
Why Is China Stockpiling Key Resources?
By Bonnie Girard
Is China preparing to invade Taiwan, or just flexing its muscles to attract attention?
Pakistan’s Quantum Quest: Hurdles and Hopes
By Zohaib Altaf and Nimrah Javed
The establishment of the National Center for Quantum Computing could be a critical step – if Pakistan can overcome economic constraints and a significant brain drain.
Has Team Marcos Justified Its Economic Swagger?
By David Hutt
For all its economic challenges, the Philippines has one major advantage over its Southeast Asian peers.
Can Indonesia Actually Raise Its Debt to GDP Ratio to 50 Percent?
By James Guild
Prabowo's deficit-driven economic vision draws from that of his father Sumitro Djojohadikusumo, a key intellectual of the early post-independence period.
Singapore Is in Perfect Position to Court AI Companies From China
By Grace Shao
With China facing advanced chip and equipment bans from the United States, Singapore is an increasingly attractive place for Asia-based talent to set up AI companies.
China Targets Europe’s Farmers, Not Its Automakers, in Response to EU Tariffs on Electric Cars
By Associated Press
China’s Commerce Ministry announced Monday that it is opening an anti-dumping investigation into pork from Europe, widely seen as a response to the EU move on electric cars.
Southeast Asia’s Digital Banking Race Has Gotten Off to a Slow Start
By James Guild
Digital banking services have struggled to live up to the hype, even in nations like Indonesia, where large numbers of people lack regular access to financial services.