The Sino-US Trade War Presents Hard Choices for Southeast Asia
INTRODUCTION: In the ensuing Sino-US trade war, China, to use Trump’s lingo, has more cards to play than its economic rival.
Xi’s Southeast Asia Tour: China Needs More Than a Charm Offensive
INTRODUCTION: China has embarked on a charm offensive in Southeast Asia in the wake of the US’ “Liberation Day” tariffs. This is unlikely to allay concerns about its regional behaviour.
Trump’s Tariff Reversal: An Opportunity for Trade Realignment in Southeast Asia
INTRODUCTION: As trade policy takes a volatile turn under the US leader, ASEAN can seize the moment to diversify global partnerships and assert a stronger voice in the international trade order.
From Charter to Action: BIMSTEC’s Security Turn
INTRODUCTION: At its sixth Summit, BIMSTEC took a decisive step toward tackling transnational crime by strengthening regional security cooperation
Japan’s International Strategy and the Challenges of Trump 2.0
INTRODUCTION: Japan has been conducting proactive and high-level diplomacy with the US since the inauguration of the Trump 2.0 administration.
Beijing Retains Considerable Weight in Regional Perceptions
INTRODUCTION: Despite some apprehension about its actions, Beijing continues to retain considerable weight among Southeast Asian elites.
Making the EU a Credible Economic Hedge for ASEAN
INTRODUCTION: Against a more uncertain global economic backdrop, the European Union and ASEAN face greater urgency to strengthen economic engagement and strategic partnerships.
Taking Southeast Asia’s Pulse on Geopolitics
INTRODUCTION: Some Southeast Asians appear to have warmed to Trump.
Singapore is Not Buying into Trump 2.0
INTRODUCTION: This commentary draws on the perspectives of 242 respondents from Singapore who participated in the State of Southeast Asia 2025 Survey.
DECLINE OF A SUPERPOWER
INTRODUCTION: A superpower such as the United States of America (US) is defined by its overwhelming material powers, particularly its military and economic powers.