North Korea – The real threat to East Asian commerce
August 25, 2017North Korea’s decision to test-fire missiles that could potentially reach the U.S. mainland has far-reaching consequences. For businesses operating in East Asia, the greatest risks emanate not from a nuclear war, which is highly unlikely, but from the conflicting responses of China, the U.S., South Korea and Japan to the North’s antics. China has proven itself willing to penalise foreign companies in order to deter any U.S.-led military expansion in the area, but this tactic risks economic retaliation from a U.S. administration that is volubly dissatisfied with China’s trade policies.
Read moreThe struggle for the South China Sea points towards Beijing’s wider ambitions
July 31, 2017The first anniversary of the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling that upheld the Philippines’ territorial claims to disputed sections of the South China Sea over Beijing’s assertion of sovereignty passed on 12 July without incident, or any indication Beijing had any intention of abiding by the court’s finding.
Read moreChina and India’s mountainous impasse
July 31, 2017China and India have been watching each other’s militarisation of the Himalayas with great wariness. Now, a serious dispute has erupted over the demarcation of the Bhutanese border. The dream of the Asian giants as fraternal ‘Brics’ partners looks ever more fanciful.
Read moreNew president clouds Mongolia’s investment climate
July 25, 2017The election of Mongolia’s new protectionist president increases corruption and regulatory risks for foreign investment in the Mongolian steppe.
Read moreCase Study: Tea companies and tourist operators face losses amid new unrest in India’s Darjeeling
June 30, 2017The picturesque hill city of Darjeeling is in turmoil. Its tourists have been evacuated and its tea gardens are on lockdown. The reasons why illustrate some of the stability risks that come with operating in India.
Read more
