Question 1

In the context of US-China technological competition, what is Taiwan's primary role in the global semiconductor industry, and what percentage of advanced chip manufacturing capacity does it hold?

Accepted Answer

Taiwan is the dominant producer of advanced chips through TSMC; it holds over 90% of advanced chip manufacturing capacity.

Question 2

Which East Asian nation is significantly boosting its foreign direct investment (FDI) in high-tech sectors like electronics and automotive, driven by Chinese companies seeking to expand operations or shift production, with a notable 38.6% increase in FDI in early 2024?

Accepted Answer

Vietnam

Question 3

South Korea's semiconductor industry faces significant pressure due to US-China tech competition. What is a key constraint imposed by the US on South Korean firms receiving semiconductor subsidies for facilities in the United States?

Accepted Answer

A limitation on expanding production capacity in China to above 5% for ten years.

Question 4

China's digital economy is rapidly expanding. By 2024, what percentage of the country's total service trade is targeted for digital trade (DDT) to achieve by 2029, reflecting its strategic shift in international commerce?

Accepted Answer

45 percent

Question 5

Which East Asian country's tourism sector has seen a strong rebound in 2024, nearing pre-pandemic levels with an estimated 35 million visitors, significantly supported by visa exemptions for Chinese tourists and restored flight capacity?

Accepted Answer

Thailand

Question 6

Regarding South Korea's semiconductor industry and the US-China tech war, what strategic concern is highlighted about China's increasing competitiveness in memory chip technologies as of early 2025?

Accepted Answer

China has surpassed South Korea to rank second in memory chip technologies, only behind the US.

Question 7

In 2024, Vietnam experienced a significant surge in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Which East Asian investors are particularly boosting their investments in Vietnam, focusing on high-tech, electronics, and automotive sectors?

Accepted Answer

Investors from China and Singapore

Question 8

The Philippines' Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry is a major economic contributor. What was the estimated revenue for the Philippine BPO sector in 2024, and what percentage of the nation's GDP does it contribute?

Accepted Answer

$38 billion, contributing 8% to GDP

Question 9

Indonesia's financial services sector is rapidly growing, with its digital economy projected to reach $146 billion by 2025. What is a key initiative by Bank Indonesia to create secure and interoperable digital financial systems?

Accepted Answer

Developing the 'Indonesia Payment System Blueprint 2025–2030'.

Question 10

Japan's e-commerce market is highly mature. In 2024, what was the approximate value of Japan's B2C e-commerce market, and what percentage of total e-commerce sales were domestic?

Accepted Answer

¥27.4 trillion, with 95% domestic sales

Question 11

North Korea is reportedly circumventing UN sanctions. What are two primary methods identified in reports from late 2024 and early 2025 for Pyongyang to generate illicit revenue and fund its weapons programs?

Accepted Answer

Engaging in cyber operations targeting the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry, and deploying IT workers abroad.

Question 12

In the context of global supply chain reconfigurations due to US-China tensions, what pragmatic approach is advised for ASEAN nations regarding choosing between US or Chinese supply chain systems?

Accepted Answer

To continue taking a pragmatic approach and reject choosing sides, as forcing a choice would be disruptive.

East Asian Economies Navigate Global Shifts: Tech Wars, Digital Trade, and Supply Chain Realities

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