USCC's Hearing on the Competition With China in Southeast Asia and Pacific Islands
From U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission
Executive Summary
12 quotes
Concerns Raised
Rapid decline in U.S. favorability among regional elites, ceding diplomatic ground to China.
China's entrenchment in critical infrastructure and technology supply chains, creating long-term dependencies.
The ineffectiveness of U.S. economic initiatives to counter China's tangible Belt and Road projects.
China's successful use of state-owned enterprises and security assistance to achieve geopolitical goals, such as flipping diplomatic recognition in the Pacific Islands.
Opportunities Identified
The U.S. maintains a significant advantage in services trade with Southeast Asia, an area for potential growth.
Regional countries' inherent desire to avoid domination by a single power creates demand for U.S. and allied engagement.
Collaborating with allies like Japan and Australia can create a more compelling, multilateral development and security offer.
Partnering with nations like the Philippines on law enforcement and intelligence sharing can counter Chinese-linked transnational crime.