Posts From Qingzhen Chen
China’s railway diplomacy: Benefits and challenges
While the outcome of the recent high-prized Indonesian railway deal is a huge success for China’s railway diplomacy, both countries will have to tackle safety and transparency issues. China has
Five Risks to ASEAN Growth
Last week, the Asian Development Bank downgraded the 2015/2016 growth rate forecasts for most ASEAN countries, and the region as a whole. The latest revised figures revel some of the
Military junta in Thailand undermines economic competitiveness
In Thailand, a military-appointed council has rejected a draft constitution and the election has been postponed to no sooner than July, 2017. An extension of the military regime means political instability will
Bangkok attack likely to affect Thailand’s vital tourism industry
Last Monday’s bomb attack in Bangkok is driving tourists away and adding uncertainty to Thailand’s lackluster economy. Obsession with internal stability and a strong response from the junta-led government might
Jokowi’s cabinet shake-up offers hope but little growth impact
Jokowi’s revamped cabinet features experienced technocrats appointed to boost the largest economy in Southeast Asia. Domestic business insiders welcomed the cabinet reshuffle, but remain cautious as they wait for better
Malaysia’s 1MDB scandal shatters business confidence
Malaysia’s once fast growing economy – buoyed by cheap labour and high quality products – risks losing its attractiveness to foreign investors as probe into the 1Malaysia Development Berhad scandal unfolds.
Post-election investment stability in Myanmar is unclear
A date has been set for historic elections in Myanmar, but post-election political instability remains high. Business is advised to adopt a long-term perspective. Myanmar has announced the date for
As spending slows in Indonesia, president weighs cabinet reshuffle
Indonesia is predicted to grow at a much lower rate due to slow government spending. While expectations of a new cabinet has been widely anticipated in recent weeks, President Jokowi
With elections approaching, investors in the Philippines remain cautious
With presidential elections in the Philippines less than a year away, uncertainty regarding the future of economic policies has caused investors to remain cautious. The Philippines have experienced huge improvement
Economics defuses China-Vietnam tensions
Vietnam relies on China for trade and a positive relationship with China is crucial for its foreign investment, China also desire to maintain a positive relationship with Vietnam as part
