Natural disasters are becoming increasingly severe, hindering poverty reduction attempts and economic growth. The UN says the Asia-Pacific region isn’t doing enough to protect itself against the risks.
Singapore’s government has effectively employed regulation to reap the benefits of the gambling sector while mitigating its dangers. The island-state holds lessons for other nations looking to do the same.
A thriving underground market and a robust gun culture empowers criminals and keeps dangerous weapons within easy reach in Thailand.
Twenty years after independence, Timor-Leste struggles to define its future beyond foreign influences and a volatile fossil fuel economy. Its bid to join ASEAN is finally moving ahead and represents a key piece of its development agenda.
ASEAN’s universities are struggling to compete. But the same forces that are pushing them to the brink can pull them to safety.
Singapore’s e-commerce industry is flourishing. But there is vast room for expansion. E-commerce platforms in the island-state are tipped for major growth across the B2B and B2C sectors.
The Cambodian government plans to eliminate six public holidays, including International Human Rights Day, in a move to attract investors. But the ploy has drawn criticism from civil society and suggests the government will refuse to engage with the EU on domestic rights issues.
Fast and transparent cross-border payment systems will change the habits of businesses and consumers. Digital payment providers should seize the opportunity to expand their market reach.
China is trying to manipulate international dispute resolution mechanisms to sew confusion and further its economic interests in the South China Sea. Its diplomatic and military activities are pushing the region closer to the brink of conflict.
The new EU-Vietnam free trade agreement (FTA) shows the EU will look past human rights violations to push a trade agenda. But as FTAs with ASEAN states don’t offer the EU the same economic benefits, it’s unlikely the bloc will pen more in the near future.