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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.
Why Ace Hardware Is ‘Leaving’ Indonesia
By James Guild
The country's retail market is not as weak as the move might suggest.
Indonesia’s Biodiesel Push Poses Risks to Palm Oil Supply Chain
By Rafi Adis Subarna
With production stagnating, Jakarta's increasing use of palm oil for biodiesel production could lead to shortages in the global market.
Why Indonesia’s Antam Wants to Acquire a Chinese Nickel Smelter
By James Guild
Jakarta has successfully encouraged foreign firms to invest in nickel processing facilities in the country. Now its own firms are looking for a greater piece of the action.
Relocating Indonesia’s Import Gates: A Shortcut to Help Local Industries Compete
By Fajar Hidayat
Indonesia is considering forcing imports of certain goods to transit through ports in its east – necessitating a lengthy and expensive trip to consumer hubs.
Thai PM Confirms ‘Digital Wallet’ Will Go Ahead, Flags Cash Payments
By Sebastian Strangio
The Pheu Thai Party's controversial 450 billion baht stimulus program has been criticized as wasteful and fiscally irresponsible.
What is the Tatak Pinoy Act?
By James Guild
The Philippines wants to push into more advanced manufacturing activities, but the current state of the global economy will pose challenges.
Traders Observe Daylong Strike Across Pakistan to Protest Rising Costs and New Taxes
By Associated Press
Most of the public markets across Pakistan were closed on Wednesday to protest a rise in electricity costs and new taxes imposed on shop owners.
The Big Numbers India Needs to Hit 2047 Target
By Mandar P. Oak
Modi’s Independence Day speech focused on the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat,' meaning developed India, by 2047. Achieving that would need an economic miracle.
The US Can Accelerate India’s Rise as a Legacy Chip Hub
By Satya S Sahu and Amit Kumar
Friendshoring supply chains for legacy chips to countries like India is likely the most feasible long-term solution for the West in the face of China’s dominance.
Understanding the Significance of China’s Antimony Export Controls
By Gregory Wischer and Morgan Bazilian
The Chinese government will probably continue to allow some antimony exports to the United States, sending a retaliatory signal but also keeping the U.S. reliant on Chinese mineral supplies.
In Indonesia, E-Commerce App Temu Receives a Frosty Reception
By Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat and Yeta Purnama
Jakarta is worried that the platform's "factory-to-consumer" business model will undermine the country's millions of small businesses.
The AIIB’s $5 Billion Investment Pledge to Vietnam, Explained
By James Guild
The development bank and its primary backer, China, seem set to compete with the Japanese government in financing major infrastructure in Vietnam.