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Economics International

US-China Phase One Trade Deal: Challenges for Trade Expansion

After a year since the United States and China signed the phase one trade deal agreement, it is evident there are several systemic challenges to its full implementation. China’s decentralized governance, limitations in the deal’s dispute resolution mechanism, and failure to address structural issues in the bilateral economic relationship limit the prospects of reaching phase one goals of trade expansion. The consequent market distortions may negatively impact international trading partners, whereas China’s search for alternatives to US imports will hinder progress in subsequent negotiations.

Asia Pacific Economics

A Big Deal: Signing of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership

On November 15th 2020, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership was signed. An ASEAN-led initiative, the agreement was signed during a virtual ceremony in Vietnam. The bloc takes sole position as the world’s largest trading bloc, representing roughly 30% of global GDP.
The signing of this imminent and long-awaited free trade agreement is between 15 nations: the 10 ASEAN members in addition to China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.
The timing of this pan-Asian trading agreeement’s signing is symbolic – amid a global pandemic that has shaken the global economy and caused free trade and globalisation to be questioned; however, it’s significance goes far beyond symbolism.
While this agreement appears to support ASEAN’s incrementalist approach, the pact will do little to halt China’s creeping dominance over the surrounding region, nor influence America’s position of distancing itself from China, or indeed influence any agreement in which China plays a part.

China Technology and infrastructure

China and the Semiconductor Industry: What to Expect Under the Biden Administration

In recent years, China has tried to gain more independence. It can safely be said that, In the last decade, China has developed new technology in every sector, and is

International Politics

Who will win the race to Greenland?

Greenland is the golden ticket for any state that wants to advance into the Arctic. Previously at the margins of global attention, the sparsely populated state is resource-rich and strategically located. In order to achieve full independence, Greenland must cut economic ties with its former colonial power, Denmark. Renewed global interest could be a window of opportunity to secure foreign investment. With many suitors, which path will Greenland choose and why?

International Natural resources and energy

COVID-19 and the green revolution: A new energy order in the making?

The pandemic has accelerated an ongoing switch towards greener energy, to the point that some foresee a “new energy order” in the making. But these calls are likely exaggerated, with traditional energy sources predicted to stay dominant.

Africa Politics

The Curse of the White Elephant: The Pitfalls of Zambia’s Dependence on China

Zambia appears to be the first African state that has defaulted on its international debt payments as a consequence of Coronavirus. The Zambian government potentially owes the Chinese government in excess of $23 billion in loans, project money and infrastructure. This article explores some of the problems concerning the Sino-Zambian relationship.

China Environment

China’s Renunciation of Single-use Plastic

Recently, China has decided to gradually abolish the use of single-use plastic. This decision was reached by  the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) at the beginning of 2020. The reason why they  would make this decision is quite simple: China has contributed to worldwide pollution much more than  other countries. 

Asia Pacific Security

COVID 19 and the Shifting Maritime Balance

In South East Asia, the reduction of the navy budgets in key countries might threaten the balance of power by weakening their presence in a highly disputed area. Indeed, China has already adapted its policy in the South China Sea to benefit from the weakening of its opponents.

India Security

Rising tensions in Eastern-Ladakh – Wider Foreign Policy Implications

In recent history, tensions between China and India over control of the Galwan Valley have never been as high. Whereas China has the upperhand in the border dispute, India is trying to find other ways to frustrate China in its search to increase its geopolitical influence over the region.

China Politics

Hong Kong’s Erosion of Independence

On June 30th, the Chinese Government enacted the National Security Law for Hong Kong. This has criminalized any acts of “secession”, “subversion”, “terrorism” and “collusion with a foreign country”. It