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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.

Southeast Asian Tech Giants Continued Losing Money in 2022
April 05, 2023

Southeast Asian Tech Giants Continued Losing Money in 2022

By James Guild
After a single-minded focus on growth and expansion, the region's leading tech firms face a rocky transition to sustained profitability.

Why the Thai Economy Grew Slower Than Its Neighbors’ in 2022
March 28, 2023

Why the Thai Economy Grew Slower Than Its Neighbors’ in 2022

By James Guild
The country's economy continues to be heavily dependent on foreign demand for goods and services.
The Future of State-Sponsored AI Research in China
March 25, 2023

The Future of State-Sponsored AI Research in China

By Shaoshan Liu
The fundamental mindset of Chinese tech companies is still driven by short-term profit, and they have always looked to the state to sponsor technological leaps.

A Reality Check on China-US Decoupling
March 22, 2023

A Reality Check on China-US Decoupling

By Tamás Mészáros
Decoupling rhetoric masks the fact that the United States and China play very different economic roles in East Asia and possess very different sources of economic power. 

Southeast Asia’s Post-Pandemic Tourism Revival
March 21, 2023

Southeast Asia’s Post-Pandemic Tourism Revival

By James Guild
Regional tourism is finally rebounding from the impacts of COVID-19. Will Southeast Asian government do things differently this time around?

TikTok Dismisses US Calls for Chinese Owners to Sell Stakes
March 17, 2023

TikTok Dismisses US Calls for Chinese Owners to Sell Stakes

By Associated Press
Following reports that CFIUS is seeking to force Chinese firm ByteDance to divest from the popular app, both TikTok and China's government hit back.

Thailand, EU Agree to Restart Free Trade Pact Negotiations
March 16, 2023

Thailand, EU Agree to Restart Free Trade Pact Negotiations

By Sebastian Strangio
Brussels called a halt negotiations in mid-2014, shortly after the Thai military seized power in a coup.
Indonesia’s EV Shift Requires a Mindset Shift
March 16, 2023

Indonesia’s EV Shift Requires a Mindset Shift

By Massita Ayu Cindy and Michael Suryaprawira
The promotion of electric vehicles must take place in tandem with efforts to reduce the overall number of cars on Indonesian roads.

Vietnam Has a Long Way to Go on Decarbonization
March 15, 2023

Vietnam Has a Long Way to Go on Decarbonization

By Vincenzo Caporale
In order to attract foreign investment in zero-carbon energy sources, the government will have to undertake serious structural reforms.

Is the New Bank of Japan Governor Up to the Task?
March 14, 2023

Is the New Bank of Japan Governor Up to the Task?

By KOMINE Takao
Incoming BOJ head Ueda Kazuo faces some difficult challenges.

Why Will People Want to Live in Indonesia’s New Capital?
March 14, 2023

Why Will People Want to Live in Indonesia’s New Capital?

By James Guild
Despite the government's expansive vision, purpose-built, concept-driven projects like Nusantara have a poor track record of success.
Indonesia Announces Subsidies to Boost EV Uptake
March 08, 2023

Indonesia Announces Subsidies to Boost EV Uptake

By Sebastian Strangio
President Joko Widodo is hoping to transform Indonesia into a leading manufacturer of batteries and electric vehicles.

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