Asia Economy

The Philippines may be heading towards a period of economic introspection, looking inward for growth and stability as the shadow of slower economic growth appears to be spreading over many of its key trading partners. The country’s inner strength was tested late in 2011, however, by natural disaster and other domestic concerns.

Last year saw the prospect of Mongolia’s vast untapped natural mineral wealth drive heady levels of investment and growth, with the government aiming to harness the momentum by diversifying the economy and improving infrastructure, employment and housing. However, Prime Minister S. Batbold’s administration will likely face political pressures over protecting the country's resources in the lead-up to this June’s election.

Having long given its support to regional and multilateral efforts to promote trade, Brunei Darussalam has recently been highly involved in negotiations for a new multilateral free trade agreement that could transform the economies of the Asia-Pacific region.

The latest data on Thailand’s consumer confidence shows that Thais are beginning to look more positively on the future, as the government moves to boost growth and restore the country’s infrastructure after last year’s devastating flooding.

With the mining and agriculture sectors performing well and a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project nearing completion, Papua New Guinea (PNG) used 2011 to prepare for an expected resource-related boom over the coming years. Despite some political discord, the country took a number of progressive steps during the year, including the establishment of a sovereign wealth fund (SWF), which was seen as vital for the management of future revenues.

Brunei Darussalam’s economy closed out 2011 in good health, with GDP rising, inflation under control and plans to build on existing strengths and develop new opportunities. However, concerns remain over the slowing global economic growth and how this may impact the country.