Asia Pacific
Indonesia ramps up battle against bureaucracy
Indonesia’s 12th economic policy package is the latest effort to improve ease doing business. Strong political will must complement consistent implementation.
Why China’s obesity crisis is great news for investors
Increasing obesity and other health concerns in China pose serious challenges, but also exciting opportunities for investors.
Japan’s defense procurement boosts national security and industry
Japan’s role in regional defense procurement has steadily grown since 2014— fostering closer ties with nations wary of Beijing and boosting local industry.
Japan needs its own agenda to better trade ties with Russia
Recently, Sergey Lavrov visited Japan to discuss bilateral cooperation. The visit’s real aim was to stress the value to Russia of a more independent Japan.
The implications of Sino-US trade tensions
Hostility is building up between the US and China over trade policy, particularly with regards to Chinese steel exports.
Why North Korea’s failed missile launches matter
North Korea’s failed missile tests underscore its growing military capabilities and highlight potential short-term instability in the region.
Apple runs afoul of China’s changing internet
Apple is the victim of bad timing, not a crackdown, as China flexes its internet sovereignty by shutting down iTunes Movies and iBooks.
East Asian plutonium policies risk regional stability
Major countries in East Asia are either considering or already engaging in reprocessing spent fuel from nuclear power plants—a procedure that builds vulnerable stockpiles of plutonium. Intentions notwithstanding, the policies present serious nuclear and radiological risks.
Cambodia’s disputed trade union law may spur social unrest
Cambodia’s new trade union law fails to address familiar problems for factory workers. While relations between the ruling party and the opposition deteriorate, Cambodia’s labour practices remain poor with risk of violent protests highly possible.
Liberalization in Burma creates new investment opportunities
While not without risks, the recent opening of Burma to the outside world is creating a plethora of lucrative new opportunities for investors.
