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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.
Indonesia’s Bold Bid to Become a Semiconductor Hub
By Patrick Kurniawan
The country enjoys some natural advantages, but faces significant challenges in outpacing its neighbors.
As New Players Upend the EV Market, Indians Want Their Money Back for Undelivered Teslas
By Aniruddha Ghosal
In the eight years since Tesla’s initial promise to sell cars in India, other automakers have launched their own EVs while the American firm has failed to follow through.
Pertamina and Petronas Both Had Good Years in 2023, But For Different Reasons
By James Guild
The contrast between the two state-owned oil firms reveals interesting differences in the political economies of Malaysia and Indonesia.
China Is Betting Big on Its ‘Little Giants’
By Sarah Mujeeb
China’s specialized small and medium enterprises are an underrated part of its strategy to achieve self-reliance in key industries.
Indonesia Relaxes Local Content Rules to Spur Green Energy Investments
By Sebastian Strangio
The country's local content requirements are one reason for the slow progress of the $20 billion Just Energy Transition Partnership.
Why Japanese Investment in Southeast Asian LNG is Surging
By James Guild
As the use of liquefied natural gas in Japan has declined, the country's major gas players have pivoted toward investments in other markets.
The Philippine Economy: Glass Half Empty or Glass Half Full?
By Jesus Felipe and Susan Kurdli
Recently announced growth figures look impressive, but they conceal the structural issues holding back the Philippine economy.
More Than Mercenary: Why Taiwan’s Semiconductor Dominance Helps the US
By Kai-Shen Huang
Taiwan’s dominance in chip manufacturing aligns with and supports U.S. interests, given their complementary strengths.
Why the Philippines Chose to Privatize Its Largest Airport
By James Guild
Once again, Manila has demonstrated its willingness to turn vital national infrastructure over to the private sector.
Can China’s Green Electricity Certificates Boost Demand for Renewable Energy?
By Chris Hankin
New rules for GECs will make the marketplace more robust as China works to increase renewable energy consumption nationwide.
Germany Is Phasing out Chinese Tech From 5G Networks. Is It the Right Call?
By Aparna Divya
Germany’s decision to exclude ZTE and Huawei parts from its 5G networks stems from geopolitical anxieties and strategic concerns.
Vietnam Allows Big Companies to Buy Clean Energy Directly to Meet Their Climate Targets
By Aniruddha Ghosal
The government has lifted a regulation requiring all consumers of power to purchase it at fixed prices from the state utility EVN.