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-UAE’s CEPA: A Strategic Gateway Between ASEAN and the Gulf
By Rich McClellan and Alex George
The new economic partnership agreement continues a trend of marked outreach from the UAE to Southeast Asia.
German Carmakers Are Placing a Risky Bet on China
By Alexander Brown and Andreas Mischer
Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have announced further investments in a market that has changed rapidly to their disadvantage.
BRICS Currency May Not Upstage the US Dollar Anytime Soon
By Tridivesh Singh Maini
BRICS states’ de-dollarization efforts are unlikely to beat the greenback’s continuing preference globally.
Vietnam Signs Agreement with Nvidia to Establish AI Research and Data Centers
By Sebastian Strangio
Last year, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said that he wanted to make Vietnam the AI chipmaker's "second home."
Apple Plans to Invest $1 Billion in Indonesian Manufacturing Plant, Minister Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The investment, which has not yet been made official, would help Apple fulfill local content rules that have prevented it from selling its latest iPhone in the country.
The End of Japan’s Hydrogen Rush in Australia?
By Daisuke Akimoto
Facing bureaucratic hurdles and questionable profits, some major Japanese companies are withdrawing from their hydrogen partnerships in Australia.
What’s the Deal with COP29?
By James Guild
The annual Conference of the Parties offers nations and funders to make splashy climate announcements. Translating these into concrete action is another matter.
US Announces Fresh Round of Duties on Solar Imports From Southeast Asia
By Sebastian Strangio
The Commerce Department says that Chinese firms based in Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Malaysia are flooding the U.S. market with artificially cheap solar panels.
Why Thailand Plans to Stretch the National Budget in 2025
By James Guild
Bangkok has embarked on a course of deficit spending, in the hope of reaping economic dividends over the remainder of the decade.
Will the Trump Administration Save TikTok? What’s Next for the Platform
By Chelsea Toczauer
The social media app’s survival in the U.S. will hinge on its ability to secure legal wins, build political alliances, or adapt structurally to evolving demands.
Is China Ready for the Trump Trade War 2.0?
By Yan Liang
If China is able to seize the opportunity to revitalize its domestic economy and invigorate the multilateral system, Trump’s trade war 2.0 could end up a strategic gift to Beijing.
Indonesia’s PLN and the Clean Energy Conundrum
By James Guild
The state-owned utility has allowed private companies to expand the country's generating capacity, but it may take a different approach with solar.