Prospects 2020

Asia Pacific

South-east Asian states face increasing challenges relating to trade and diplomacy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi must contend with political headwinds as well as an economic slowdown

Selective stimulus will keep GDP growth close to 6% as initiatives to improve the sustainability of growth continue

Pyongyang is spurning overtures from US President Donald Trump and escalating its provocations

Relations with Washington are Beijing’s main challenge; there may be tariff relief, but strategic rivalry will deepen

Islamabad is contending with an economic crisis and diplomatic pressures