All articles tagged with #south east asia
Smaller private investors are showing interest in investing in Venezuelan oil amid political and economic developments, while ex-president Maduro pleads not guilty to drug charges; Chinese car exports are expected to rise, and South-East Asia is navigating Trump's tariffs.
Donald Trump is visiting South-East Asia primarily to preside over a peace agreement between Cambodia and Thailand, amidst a backdrop of declining US influence in the region and China's growing economic and diplomatic ties, with his trip potentially doing little to alter the regional balance of power.
Chinese manufacturers are reconsidering their focus on South-east Asia as a result of tariffs imposed by Donald Trump, prompting a reevaluation of their regional strategies amidst changing trade policies.
Cambodia has called for an immediate ceasefire with Thailand following two days of cross-border fighting that has resulted in at least 16 deaths and displaced thousands, with both countries accusing each other of initiating hostilities. The conflict, rooted in longstanding border disputes, has escalated with heavy weapons and allegations of use of banned munitions, prompting international calls for peace and a peaceful resolution.
Japan has emerged as a trusted partner and a vital hedge against the rival powers of America and China for many South-East Asian countries. With significant foreign direct investment, infrastructure projects, and long-term consistency in aid and development, Japan has built substantial influence in the region. While competition from China and other countries is growing, Japan's soft power, proactive role in regional security, and deepening ties with ASEAN members indicate a shift towards a stronger and more strategic relationship.
Criminal gangs are smuggling crystal meth out of South East Asia to high-paying customers outside the region by sea to evade land patrols in Thailand and China, making them harder to spot. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime warns that the huge trade in methamphetamines and other illegal drugs, which mostly flow from super labs in parts of Myanmar, is also showing no signs of slowing down. The meth comes in two main forms: pills known as yaba or highly addictive crystal meth (ice).
US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has begun a trip to Vietnam to boost ties with the country as China reportedly refused to reschedule a visit from him. Blinken will meet with top Vietnamese officials and formally break ground on a new US embassy compound in Hanoi. The visit comes as the US faces challenges in South-east Asia in building a coalition to counter China and deter any potential action by Beijing against Taiwan. The US will be hoping for progress towards boosting relations with Vietnam to a “strategic” partnership.