Asia Pacific
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
US-Vietnam economic ties to increase after historic visit
This July, the Secretary-General of the Vietnam Communist Party (VCP) made a five-day visit to the United States. A Joint Vision Statement was released during the visit, emphasizing enhanced economic and security
Thailand’s political unrest poses risk for fragile economic recovery
On the face of things, the military junta in Thailand has restored some much-needed stability to the country after waves of violent protests in early 2014. However, there are many
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
Can the Malaysian PM survive the 1MDB Scandal?
An anti-corruption probe has uncovered documents that appear to link Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak to 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) funds. The allegations have helped push the Malaysian ringgit to
Southeast Asia: The new piracy capital
Southeast Asia has recently regained the reputation as the world’s worst region for piracy. With one third of world shipping going through the regions’ waters, the costs to trade and
US, China at odds as IMF currency basket decision approaches
The Chinese yuan looks poised to join a symbolically important international currency basket but differences over its valuation remain between the US and China. US Treasury Secretary Jack Lew made
Will new NGO law in Cambodia curtail foreign investment?
The Cambodian government recently announced plans to revive controversial nongovernmental organization (NGO) legislation that would seriously curtail the activities of NGO groups. Confronted by domestic and international backlash, the legislation
Australia as powerbroker in Sino-American ties
While the recently signed free trade agreement will inevitably draw Australia and China closer together, Australia stands to gain significant political and economic clout in the region – if it
Five challenges American companies face in Asia
American companies operating in Asia face distinct challenges affecting their profit, productivity, and potential to develop in the fast-growing markets. In particular, there are potential barriers to entry for new
