Vietnam and Thailand have repeatedly sought to form a rice cartel to influence rice prices, but such an initiative faces ethical, political and practical hurdles. A rice consortium pursuing multiple objectives offers a better option for developing the rice sector and supporting rice farmers.
Category Archives: Commentaries
Malaysia’s State Elections: Surprisingly Unremarkable
Numerous interpretations have been offered for the recent state elections in Malaysia. They may offer some truth, but the results also conform with general expectations for a mid-term election that have little to do with the specifics of Malaysia.
Increased Cybertrooper Activity in Malaysia’s State Elections and Increased Voter Apathy on Social Media
The ugliness on social media during the campaigning for last week’s Malaysian state elections may mark an irreversible trend in the country’s politics, and not for the better.
On the Horns of Anwar’s Twin Dilemmas
The results of the recent state elections in Malaysia were not unexpected. But the more important thing is Pakatan Harapan’s pursuit of the Malay vote, and what this portends for the coalition going into the next general election.
Ganjar Pranowo’s Running Mate: What’s in PDI-P’s Playbook?
While his party has come up with a shortlist of potential running mates, the decision as to who will run with Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo to be his vice-president will most likely lie with none other than a former president who is Ganjar’s party boss.
Personnel Changes at China’s Foreign Ministry: Beijing Will Stay the Course on Southeast Asia
Recent top-level changes at China’s foreign ministry are unlikely to affect Beijing’s foreign policy orientation towards Southeast Asia. The region remains important in light of China’s difficult relationship with the United States and other key countries.
Malaysia’s State Elections: When “Referendum” Takes Precedence over Reformasi
It may well be true that not much has changed after the six state elections in Malaysia last week. But much of the political ground – specifically among Malay voters – has shifted towards the opposition.
Global Minimum Tax: Boon or Bane for Vietnam’s Economy?
Vietnam’s impending acceptance of the global minimum tax regime for multinational enterprises could be a double-edged sword; the key is to ensure that imposing the minimum tax rate does not drive away major foreign investors.
Will Putin Visit Vietnam After Biden? Odds Are Against It
U.S. President Joseph Biden will travel to Hanoi next month. Russian President Vladimir Putin could be next. This leaves Vietnam in a right (Russian) pickle.
Perikatan Nasional Lacks A Game-changing Chief in Negeri Sembilan
Perikatan Nasional’s campaign in the Negeri Sembilan state election is hampered by the absence of a credible leader, in contrast to its opponents. PN needs to cultivate future leaders, as it has done in other states like Kedah.