Southeast Asia: Burdened by Consensus

Mahathir Mohamad's surprise move to call it quits has left Malaysia without a cohesive government at a time of mounting economic risks.

The coronavirus crisis in China and broader global trade headwinds pose economic risks that threaten to derail Thailand's post-junta political transition.

By restricting Malaysia's palm oil imports, India has made it clear that for smaller trade partners, getting access to its massive market means staying out of New Delhi's political controversies.

The challenges of potential political infighting at home and balancing between the great powers abroad could blemish Vietnam's outstanding economic progress in the year to come.

New Delhi's rejection of the deal's proposed terms won't keep China from pushing ahead with the massive Asian trade agreement, with or without India.

Southeast Asian countries stand to gain -- or lose -- the most from Beijing and Washington's escalating trade tensions. Some have benefited more than others, but all are at risk of taking an economic hit.

President Joko Widodo has a vision to overhaul his sprawling country's energy sector, but doing so is easier said than done.

Under the threat of a U.S. trade salvo, Hanoi could be forced to readjust its longtime "neutral" approach between Washington and Beijing to ensure its economic growth stays on track.

Chinese and Vietnamese vessels have reportedly faced off in the disputed waters of the energy-rich Vanguard Bank, ending a five-year spell of relative peace in the region.