Economics

In a keynote speech at the Post’s Hong Kong-Asean Summit 2023, Thailand’s deputy prime minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said unity among Asean members can help ‘preserve regional peace and stability’.

Speaking at the Post’s Hong Kong-Asean Summit 2023, Singapore’s minister for manpower said both cities can leverage their unique strengths to attract fresh talent without necessarily needing to compete.

Thailand’s lucrative dairy sector could come under threat as European manufacturers call on Bangkok to cut tariffs or face job losses and an exodus of operations.

Austerity measures such as tax reforms have taken a toll on Sri Lankans struggling with inflation and rising living costs.

The tussle between China and the Philippines has strangled Filipino fishermen’s access to the fishing grounds which have sustained their community for generations.

Visitors now have to pay as much as 69 per cent more for a Japan Rail Pass, although some bullet trains and lines are still not included.

Experts believe the ban will not last, given the economic heft of TikTok in Indonesia, and urged improving regulation instead.

Asian nations will need to more than double their renewable-energy adoption in the next two to three years to help keep the world on track for emissions reductions, analysts say.

A Chinese-backed economic zone on an Indonesian island south of Singapore is facing stiff resistance from residents who face eviction and an uncertain future.

Japan’s travel and retail sectors are anticipating a major windfall that could last through to Lunar New Year now that large-scale tour groups from China are returning.

Indonesia’s move to ease rice import controls to quell high prices may not alleviate the challenges of placating its farmers and consumers.

In Southeast Asia, the popularity of working as freelance drivers is creating a race to the bottom, amid poor terms and conditions, a saturated market and excessive platform fees.

Some Singaporeans say Girl Math is a ‘coping mechanism’ for young people grappling with cost-of-living pressures in the city state.

With debt repayments, loan interest and maintenance costs, the belt and road project is unlikely to be profitable ‘even after the next three presidents’.

Vietnam wants to keep both world powers onside, but striking a balance is becoming increasingly difficult, analysts say, as Hanoi elevates its ties with Washington – and eyes US arms.

Malaysia has a history of failing to follow through after signing numerous memorandums with foreign firms but this could change with a proper ‘monitoring process’.

Critics say Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli has overlooked the importance of Malaysia’s street food culture, which provides quick, cheap meals for workers and spaces to socialise.