Asia Forward

About Asia Forward

Highlighting forward thinking ideas on US-Southeast Asia business and beyond. We bring you straight-talk conversations with leaders, experts, and change makers about Southeast Asia’s growth and what it means for U.S. audiences. Produced by VINSY Group.

Publisher

Asia Forward

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

5 Feb 2026

Latest episode

15 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   15 Oct 2026

   From “Project Runway” to NYFW: How a Filipino Designer Built Her Career in the U.S.

   “It’s a roller coaster. And actually, that is the reason why I never stopped trying.”Filipino American fashion designer Veejay Floresva spent years rebuilding her career in the U.S. before winning “Project Runway” Season 21 in 2025. With that win, she became the first Filipina and the first trans woman to win the American edition of the show.In this episode of Asia Forward, she looks back on the path that took her from “Project Runway Philippines” to the U.S. fashion industry, and most recently, New York Fashion Week.Floresca talks about moving to the U.S., starting over as an immigrant and trans woman, and why she kept applying to “Project Runway” for 15 years before being selected. She also reflects on what winning the competition changed for her, both personally and professionally.The conversation also looks at how her Filipino background continues to shape her work, including her use of materials sourced from the Philippines, such as piña and banig, as well as the Filipino influences in her Spring/Summer 2027 NYFW presentation.Floresca talks about the business behind her brand, including her decisions to go for custom-made fashion instead of ready-to-wear, her belief in size inclusivity and the challenge of balancing creativity with long-term growth.Looking ahead, she shares how she sees the Filipino fashion industry developing over the next five to 10 years and what it will take for more Filipino designers to reach U.S. and international markets. Chapters:00:43 Introduction1:23 How Veejay Floresca looks back on her Spring/Summer 2027 NYFW presentation.2:05 Why Veejay Floresca thinks NYFW is important.2:46 How Veejay Floresca became interested in fashion and started her career in the Philippines.5:53 How Veejay Floresca competed in Project Runway Philippines.6:54 How winning Project Runway Philippines helped launch Veejay Floresca’s career.7:27 How Veejay Floresca decided to come to the U.S. to pursue her graduate degree in fashion.8:31 How Veejay Floresca decided to stay in America as a trans woman.10:03 Why Veejay Floresca spent 15 years applying to the U.S. edition of Project Runway.13:03 How Veejay Floresca looks back on her experience in Project Runway Season 21.14:30 What valuable lessons Veejay Floresca learned from competing on Project Runway.15:57 What winning Project Runway Season 21 meant to Veejay Floresca.16:55 How Veejay Floresca’s experience as a Filipino immigrant influences her designs.19:46 How the public responded to Veejay Floresca’s newest collection featuring Barong Tagalog and other Filipino design elements.21:30 How Veejay Floresca balances the creative and business sides, and Filipino and American fashion.22:59 How Veejay Floresca sources materials from the Philippines, including piña and banig.25:05 How Veejay Floresca sets herself apart from other New York designers.25:55 Why Veejay Floresca chooses making custom-made fashion over ready-to-wear.29:29 Why Veejay Floresca believes in size inclusivity.30:57 What challenges Veejay Floresca sees for Filipino designers trying to enter international markets.32:57 How mentors have shaped Veejay Floresca’s career as a fashion designer.34:20 How Veejay Floresca views her role as a Filipino representative in the fashion industry34:59 Where Veejay Floresva sees the Filipino fashion industry in 5-10 years.

2. 

   1 Oct 2026

   What U.S. Investors Need to Know about Indonesia's Danantara | Asia Forward | Episode 18

   “Indonesia is a sexy story. We just don’t talk about it too much,” says Pandu Sjahrir, Chief Investment Officer of Danantara Indonesia, the country’s newest sovereign wealth fund, as he lays out Indonesia’s investment case for global investors. Recorded in New York City during the U.N. General Assembly, episode 18 of Asia Forward looks at what U.S. investors should understand about Danantara, Indonesia’s investment strategy and the sectors drawing global interest. Sjahrir explains to host Ledy Simarmata how Danantara is restructuring state-owned enterprises, building relationships with global capital allocators and looking for opportunities in sectors including digital infrastructure, energy, financial services and food security. The episode also discusses Danantara’s first U.S. dollar bond, its investment-grade credit ratings, governance standards and the pressure that comes with managing a large portfolio of state assets. A central theme of the conversation is Danantara’s focus on human capital. Sjahrir says its investments are intended not only to generate returns, but also to bring knowledge, technology and global expertise back to Indonesia. He describes Danantara as a platform for Indonesian professionals and companies to compete at a global level, while using international partnerships to strengthen capabilities at home. He also speaks candidly about the high level of public scrutiny surrounding Danantara and the expectations that come with managing state assets on behalf of the country. For Sjahrir, that pressure is part of the job. As he puts it, “The job is to deliver.”On Indonesia’s broader investment case, Sjahrir describes the challenge as “the art of selling a nation,” making the case for Indonesia through its market size, natural resources and talent to build long-term partnerships with global investors. The conversation also covers Indonesia’s changing economic leadership, including a new finance minister and central bank governor, at a time when investors are closely watching Indonesia’s fiscal policy and the rupiah. Sjahrir talks about the importance of coordination among Indonesia’s leaders and what that could mean for investor confidence.The episode also looks at where Danantara sees opportunities for U.S. investors, including AI, data centers and other digital infrastructure, as well as energy and financial services. Sjahrir mentions growing interest from global investors and the role technology and knowledge transfer could play in Indonesia’s next phase of growth.Looking ahead, he reflects on what Danantara could become over the next decade and where U.S.-Indonesia investment ties could be stronger. For Sjahrir, the long-term goal is not simply to attract capital, but also to build partnerships that help Indonesian companies and professionals compete globally.

3. 

   17 Sept 2026

   How a Smithsonian Museum is Working with Southeast Asia | Asia Forward | Episode 17

   Who owns art, and who gets to share it? In episode 17 of Asia Forward, host Ei Thant Sin speaks with Joanna Gohmann, Associate Curator of Provenance & Object Histories at Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, about how museums approach questions of ownership, provenance, repatriation and shared stewardship. Gohmann explains how researchers trace the movement and ownership of objects over time, what can be lost when artifacts are removed without proper documentation, and why legal ownership and ethical responsibility do not always lead to the same answer. The conversation looks closely at Cambodia, where the museum recently returned three sculptures after provenance research indicated they most likely left the country during the Khmer Rouge period. Gohmann also discusses the museum’s ongoing work with Cambodian partners, including joint research and the continued display of some Cambodian objects through collaboration and loans. One example is the monumental 11th-century bronze Vishnu Reclining on the Serpent Ananta, now on loan to the museum from the National Museum of Cambodia as part of the Vishnu’s Cosmic Ocean exhibition. The episode also explores the museum’s partnerships with Indonesian museums, the importance of Southeast Asian art to diaspora communities, Burmese Kammavaca manuscripts in the collection, and the Prehistoric Spirals exhibition featuring ancient earthenware from Thailand.Gohmann also reflects on how partnerships with researchers and institutions in Southeast Asia are changing the way museums study, interpret and care for collections, and why those relationships matter for the future of provenance research. 0:25 Introduction 1:33 What is provenance research? 2:54 Why an object’s ownership history matters 4:19 How researchers trace an object’s journey 6:50 What gets lost when art is removed from its context 9:08 How the Smithsonian traced Cambodian sculptures 10:02 What repatriation means for Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art’s U.S.-Cambodia museum partnership, what Cambodia got back and what remains on display 14:03 How Smithsonian’s NMAA also partners with Indonesian museums 15:55 Who should decide where cultural objects belong? 19:23 How Burmese manuscripts at Smithsonian’s NMAA show why Southeast Asian art matters to diaspora communities 21:04 How Smithsonian’s NMAA partnerships benefit the museum and its counterparts 22:06 How Smithsonian’s NMAA researchers study ancient Thai earthenware 24:22 What drew Joanna Gohmann to Asian art and provenance research 26:58 Where Smithsonian’s NMAA U.S.-Southeast Asia museum partnerships go next

4. 

   3 Sept 2026

   What U.S. Businesses Should Know About Vietnam | Asia Forward | Episode 16

   Vietnam is Southeast Asia's fastest-growing economy and, as Ted Osius, a former U.S. ambassador to Vietnam, puts it, already a "tiger" of the region. In this episode of Asia Forward, Osius joins Ledy Simarmata to discuss what is driving Vietnam's growth, why foreign companies are investing there and what U.S. businesses should understand before entering the market. The conversation looks at the legacy of Đổi Mới, how those reforms helped shape Vietnam’s economic growth and why advanced technology including artificial intelligence is emerging as the most promising sector fas it works to build a more highly skilled workforce. Osius also discusses the country’s efforts to reduce bureaucracy, improve transparency and address corruption, including how the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act influences how American companies operate in Vietnam. The conversation also explores Vietnam’s infrastructure needs and the role of the new Vietnam International Financial Center. The episode covers how the China Plus One strategy benefits Vietnam and how the country balances its economic relationships with both the United States and China. Osius draws on more than three decades of experience with Vietnam, including his time as U.S. ambassador, his work at Google Asia-Pacific and his tenure as president and CEO of the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council. 0:27 Introduction 1:57 How Ted Osius developed personal ties with Vietnam. 3:49 How Vietnam became Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economy. 4:31 What Đổi Mới changed for Vietnam. 6:24 How Vietnam’s socialism coexists with an open business environment. 7:41 How technology and investment are shaping Vietnam’s next phase. 10:27 How American business has become increasingly interested in Vietnam. 12:11 What American business confidence in Vietnam looks like today. 15:00 How the China Plus One strategy is benefiting Vietnam. 18:40 How Vietnam ranks in the Transparency International Corruption Index 22:43 What Foreign Corrupt Practices Act means for U.S. businesses in Vietnam. 24:26 What the Vietnam International Financial Center (VIFC) could mean for investors. 27:27 Whether Vietnam has the skilled workforce for its next stage of growth. 30:10 Where U.S. companies may find the biggest opportunities in Vietnam. 33:19 How Vietnam balances its economic ties with the U.S. and China. 35:08 How American businesses can compete in Vietnam 36:11 What Vietnam’s economy could look like in the next 5-10 years.

5. 

   20 Aug 2026

   Can Cambodia Attract More U.S. Investment? | Asia Forward | Episode 15

   Cambodia has drawn international attention over online scam centers, human trafficking and organized crime, raising concerns about the country’s reputation among investors and travelers. At the same time, its digital economy is growing, new industries are developing and the United States remains Cambodia’s largest export market. In this episode of Asia Forward, host Ei Thant Sin speaks with Christopher McCarthy, Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia about what American businesses should know before investing in the country. They discuss the government’s crackdown on scam centers, the sharp decline in tourism and the impact of the border conflict with Thailand. McCarthy also talks about China’s large investment presence, where U.S. companies can compete, Cambodia’s digital payments sector and what the country needs to do to attract more American investment. Chapters: 0:35 Introduction2:22 How has Cambodia’s economy changed in the past decades? 3:52 Does Cambodia have the workforce businesses need? 5:16 How have scam centers affected U.S. businesses? 6:46 How is Cambodia cracking down on online scams? 8:59 How have scam centers hurt Cambodia’s reputation and tourism? 12:27 Why is Cambodia still attractive to U.S. investors? 13:27 Have Cambodia’s scam center crackdowns eased investor concerns? 14:32 Which sectors offer the biggest opportunities for U.S. businesses? 16:03 Can U.S. businesses compete with China in Cambodia? 18:01 How advanced is Cambodia’s digital economy? 20:14 How does Cambodia’s dollarized economy benefit businesses? 21:39 What role can the Cambodian diaspora play? 23:26 What should U.S. companies know before entering Cambodia? 25:25 How to find a local partner in Cambodia? 26:07 What could Cambodia’s business environment look like in 10 years?

6. 

   6 Aug 2026

   How American Health Care Relies on Filipino Nurses | Asia Forward | Episode 14

   For decades, Filipino nurses have filled critical roles across the U.S. health care system. They've helped hospitals respond to staffing shortages, cared for patients during public health crises, while also supporting families and communities in both the United States and the Philippines. In episode 14 of this Asia Forward podcast, host Ledy Simarmata speaks with Madelyn Yu, a retired nurse with more than 45 years of experience, living in New Jersey, who formerly served as the national president of the Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA). She reflects on her decision that brought her from the Philippines to the U.S., the cultural adjustments she faced in Kansas City and the earlier experiences that shaped her career. Her story is also part of a larger story of Filipino nurses who built professional networks and helped Filipino American communities grow across the country. The conversation looks at how the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 created new opportunities for foreign-trained nurses to stay in the U.S., and why U.S. hospitals have continued to rely on Filipino nurses. She also shares what that history means today and why Filipino nurses remain such an important part of the U.S. health care workforce. COVID-19 showed how much Filipino nurses had to endure during a major health crisis. The group accounted for a disproportionate share of recorded nurse deaths during the pandemic. She reflects on that toll, what it revealed about staffing and workplace protections and how the U.S. health care system should respond to continuing nurse shortages. Their impact also extends beyond the hospitals and communities where they work. Filipino nurses support the U.S. economy while sending billions of dollars each year in remittances to families in the Philippines. The conversation considers this connection between the two countries, as well as the challenges of recruiting health care workers from a country that has its own need for nurses. With the U.S. population aging, the demand for nursing care is likely to keep growing. Madelyn offers her perspective on a proposal for Americans from Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Illinois) to study nursing in the Philippines, the potential for closer U.S.-Philippines cooperation in health care and the growing number of Filipino nurses moving into leadership and entrepreneurship. Looking ahead, she reflects on how the role of Filipino nurses may change over the next decade and shares a personal message with nurses in the U.S. and all around the world. Chapters: 0:35 Introduction 1:36 What brought Madelyn Yu to the United States. 3:25 How the 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) opened new pathways for migrant nurses including those from the Philippines. 5:11 How Madelyn reflects on her decision leaving the Philippines for the U.S. as a young nurse, a wife and a mother. 06:05 What Madelyn’s early cultural adjustment was like. 07:02 How Madelyn built her nursing career in America. 07:49 How Madelyn became president of PNAA and what PNAA advocates for Filipino nurses. 10:25 How Filipino nurses helped build the Filipino American community. 12:13 Why Filipino nurses faced a disproportionate COVID-19 death toll. 18:37 Why U.S. hospitals continue to rely on Filipino nurses. 20:27 What being a nurse means to Madelyn. 21:17 How the U.S. health care system should address nurse shortages. 23:21 How Filipino nurses support the Philippine economy through remittances. 26:37 How Filipino nurses contribute to both the U.S. and Philippine economies. 27:41 Whether more Americans should study nursing in the Philippines as proposed by Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Illinois). 29:34 How the U.S. and the Philippines can work together on health care. 30:29 Why Filipino nurses will be important as America ages. 32:13 How Filipino nurses are moving into leadership and entrepreneurship. 33:48 What role Filipino nurses could play over the next 5-10 years. 34:54 What Madelyn wants Filipino nurses to know.

7. 

   23 Jul 2026

   Why Southeast Asia’s Energy Security Matters to U.S. Business

   How vulnerable is Southeast Asia to an energy shock thousands of miles away? The conflict in the Middle East and disruption in the Strait of Hormuz have pushed up oil, LNG and jet fuel prices, with effects that reach far beyond the energy sector. ASEAN has described the region’s vulnerability through the 5Fs: fuel, food, fertilizer, finance, and foreign workers. In this episode, host Ei Thant Sin speaks with Dr. Prashanth Parameswaran about which countries facing the greatest risks, why some are more exposed than others, how the crisis impacts different sectors of the economy and what the crisis means for companies operating in Southeast Asia. The conversation also dives into the importance of the Strait of Malacca, regional cooperation during emergencies and the need for governments and businesses to prepare together. Looking ahead, they discuss the transition to clean and renewable energy and where U.S. companies could contribute to the region’s energy security. Dr. Prashanth Paramesawaran is a fellow at the Institute for Indo-Pacific Security and a senior columnist at The Diplomat. Chapters 0:34 Introduction2:45 How the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz impact Southeast Asia’s energy security. 4:46 Why the Philippines is the most impacted country in Southeast Asia. 5:23 What an energy state of emergency means. 7:56 Whether Malaysia can power its growing data center industry 8:29 How the energy crisis affects people’s daily lives 12:28 What a multi-alignment approach means in a crisis. 13:48 What a Strait of Malacca disruption would mean for Southeast Asia. 17:45 What businesses can learn from the energy crisis and its impact on Indonesia’s and Vietnam’s economies. 20:07 Why Southeast Asia needs to broaden its energy options. 21:42 Where ASEAN may turn for energy: renewables, nuclear or coal. 23:02 Whether China and Russia could emerge as winners in this energy crisis. 25:25 What lasting impact the energy crisis could have on Southeast Asian countries. 27:27 What would make Southeast Asia more energy secure in 5-10 years from now. 30:06 What role the United States can play in Southeast Asia’s energy future.

8. 

   9 Jul 2026

   Can Indonesian Films Go Global? | Asia Forward | Episode 12

   Indonesian animated feature “Jumbo” became the highest-grossing animated film in Southeast Asia,  drawing millions of viewers at home and bringing new attention to the country’s animation talent. Can other Indonesian films replicate Jumbo’s commercial and international success? In this episode of Asia Forward, host Ledy Simarmata sits down in Jakarta with Angga Dwimas Sasongko, film director, producer, and founder and CEO of Visinema Pictures, the studio behind “Jumbo.” They discuss what the film’s success says about Indonesia’s movie industry and whether Indonesian films can reach a wider global audience. “Jumbo” was made with a budget of about $3 million, a fraction of what a major studio Hollywood movie can cost. For U.S. businesses, investors and collaborators, Angga makes the case that Indonesia offers a combination of low production costs, scale and early-stage opportunity. But he also explains why going global will require more than one successful film. It will take stronger talent development, better industry infrastructure and smarter distribution. Angga talks about why local success matters before a film can travel internationally, what it takes to build Indonesian stories and characters that can last across generations, and how Indonesia’s production talent can become part of a larger global film business. He also discusses the role of streaming platforms, the rise of horror films, the potential of AI in production, and why he believes film should be seen not only as a creative industry, but also as part of Indonesia’s broader cultural economy. 0:00 Introduction 1:24 How Jumbo became a breakout success for Indonesian animation.5:20  What Jumbo’s commercial success says about Indonesia’s film market. 9:43 How Jumbo reached more than 40 international markets. 12:50 How Visinema Pictures plans to enter the U.S. market. 13:35 Where Indonesia’s film industry stands today. 16:58 How AI could change film production in Indonesia.18:51  What types of Indonesian films can appeal to international audiences. 20:57 How streaming services help Indonesian films reach global audiences. 23:42  How Visinema balances creativity and commercial success. 25:23 What Indonesia can learn from Korea, Japan and India’s entertainment industries. 27:38 Why U.S. investors should pay attention to Indonesia’s film industry. 29:25 Where the strongest opportunities are in Indonesian film. 31:13 What Indonesian films could achieve globally in the next five to 10 years.

9. 

   25 Jun 2026

   What U.S. Businesses Should Know Before Entering Southeast Asia | Asia Forward | Episode 11

   Southeast Asia offers major opportunities for U.S. businesses, but each market comes with its own risks. In this episode of Asia Forward, host Ei Thant Sin speaks with Erin Murphy, managing director for Asia at Redpoint Advisors and a former CIA analyst, about how companies should assess risks before entering or expanding in the region. The conversation looks at Vietnam’s manufacturing growth, Indonesia’s regulatory complexity, the Philippines’ political and energy challenges, Malaysia’s digital infrastructure ambitions, Thailand’s recurring political uncertainty and Myanmar’s high-risk business environment. They also discuss why U.S. companies should look beyond the U.S.-China lens, how climate change factors into country risk assessment, and what businesses can do before committing capital in Southeast Asia. Watch the full episode to learn how U.S. companies can better understand political risks as well as long-term rewards in one of the world’s most important growth regions.

10. 

    11 Jun 2026

    Why Education is Strategic for the U.S. and Southeast Asia | Asia Forward | Episode 10

    The United States remains the top destination for international students globally, hosting 1.2 million students according to the IIE Open Doors report released in November 2025. For students from Southeast Asia and around the world, the experience can shape careers, build worldwide networks and create relationships that last long after graduation.In Episode 10 of Asia Forward, host Ledy Simarmata speaks with Marie Royce, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs, about why education remains an important part of U.S.-Southeast Asia relations.Royce discusses what continues to draw students to the U.S., including hands-on learning, STEM programs and community colleges. She also talks about the roles of student exchanges, Fulbright programs, as well as U.S. education programs and university partnerships specific to the Southeast Asian region. The conversation also addresses some of the current concerns facing international education including visa bans impacting students from certain countries and a shifting political climate in the U.S.

11. 

    28 May 2026

    Where Indonesian Coffee Fits in the U.S. Market | Asia Forward | Episode 9

    Americans drink an estimated 463 millions cups of coffee every day. In a market shaped by major chains and daily habits, how does an Indonesian coffee shop introduce specialty coffee and new flavors to U.S. consumers? In this episode of Asia Forward, host Ei Thant Sin visits DUA DC Coffee in downtown Washington, D.C. for a conversation with founder Vivit Kavi about what it takes to bring Indonesian specialty, single-origin coffee into the U.S. market. Indonesian coffee has long been associated with Sumatra. But Vivit says Indonesia’s coffee story is much broader, with beans and flavors shaped by regions across the archipelago, including Java, Bali and Sulawesi. Vivit shares how DUA DC Coffee began as a way to bring something from home in Indonesia to Washington, how the business survived the COVID-19 pandemic and why direct relationships with Indonesian farmers remain central to its mission. She also explains how familiar drinks, such as lattes, Americanos and cortados, can become an entry point for customers trying Indonesian beans for the first time. The conversation also looks at the flavors and stories behind Indonesian specialty coffee, including excelsa from Central Java, as well as Southeast Asian ingredients such as pandan and aren, or the sweet sap of the sugar palm tree. The episode also explores how a small coffee shop can help introduce Indonesia’s products, people and culture to the U.S. market. Watch the full conversation with Vivit Kavi and host Ei Thant Sin on Asia Forward. Subscribe for more forward-thinking conversations on U.S.-Southeast Asia business.

12. 

    14 May 2026

    Why Southeast Asian Representation in Media Matters to Americans | Asia Forward | Episode 8

    What does Southeast Asian representation in American media really mean, and why should it matter to Americans?In this episode of Asia Forward, host Ledy Simarmata speaks with Vicky Nguyen, NBC anchor chief consumer investigative correspondent and author of “Boat Baby,” about her family’s journey from Vietnam to the United States, growing up Vietnamese American and building a career in journalism. Vicky shares how her parents’ decision to leave Vietnam shaped her life, why representation in media can help the next generation see what is possible and how building people-to-people connections between the U.S. and Southeast Asia can help Americans’ understanding of the region and of their own country. Watch the full conversation with Vicky Nguyen and Ledy Simarmata on Asia Forward. Subscribe for more forward-thinking conversations on U.S.-Southeast Asia businesses.

13. 

    30 Apr 2026

    Why Indonesian SMEs Matter for U.S. Investors | Asia Forward | Episode 7

    Indonesia’s micro, small and medium enterprises, or MSMEs, serve as the backbone of the country’s economy, accounting for the vast majority of businesses and jobs. But beyond the numbers, what makes Indonesian SMEs stand out, and why do they matter for U.S. investors? In this episode of Asia Forward, host Ledy Simarmata speaks with Lishia Erza Budiman, committee chair for SME capacity building and inclusive economy at the Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO). They discuss how Indonesia’s SMEs are shaping the country’s economic future and where the opportunities lie for global business.From their role in the digital economy to limited integration into global supply chains, the conversation explores both the strengths and the challenges facing the sector. They also examine the role of women entrepreneurs, how sustainability and ESG considerations are influencing SMEs, and what artificial intelligence could mean for small businesses in Indonesia.The episode also looks at how growth is being defined, including the contrast between high-growth startups, often referred to as “unicorns,” and more sustainable, profit-driven businesses, sometimes described as “zebras.”As interest from U.S. companies grows, where are the entry points, and what should investors understand before engaging with this market? The episode also looks ahead to how Indonesia’s SMEs could evolve over the next decade and what that means for the broader U.S.-Southeast Asia economic relationship.

14. 

    16 Apr 2026

    Why Southeast Asia's Critical Minerals Matter for U.S. Businesses | Asia Forward | Episode 6

    Critical minerals are becoming central to global supply chains, clean energy and advanced manufacturing. In this episode of Asia Forward, host Ei Than Sin speaks with Dr. Gracelin Baskaran about why Southeast Asia is drawing growing interest from U.S. businesses and policymakers. Dr. Baskaran, Director of the Critical Minerals Security Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, explains how rare earth elements and other critical minerals move from mining to processing and into industries such as electric vehicles, semiconductors and defense. A key challenge is processing capacity, which remains heavily concentrated in China and shapes global supply chain risk. The conversation focuses on Southeast Asia’s role in this shift. Indonesia’s rapid growth in nickel production has reshaped global markets, while Malaysia is emerging as a rare earth processing hub. Countries such as Vietnam and Myanmar also hold significant potential, though investment, infrastructure and political stability continue to affect development across the region. The episode also looks at how the United States is working with partners in Southeast Asia to diversify supply chains and reduce reliance on China. For U.S. companies, this raises practical questions about where to invest, how to manage risk and what role the region could play in long-term industrial strategy. Looking ahead, Dr. Baskaran shares her view on how Southeast Asia could fit into the global critical minerals supply chain over the next five to 10 years and what that means for U.S. competitiveness. Check out our website at www.asiaforward.org. Find us and connect with us on our socials.

15. 

    2 Apr 2026

    From Food to Fashion: What Thailand’s Creative Shift Means for U.S. Investors | Asia Forward | Episode 5

    Thailand has long been known as the “Kitchen of the World.” But today, it’s expanding far beyond food.In this episode of Asia Forward, we explore how Thailand is building on decades of success in gastrodiplomacy to grow its broader creative economy—from fashion and design to soft power industries.Host Ledy Simarmata sits down with Ketsuree Vijaranakorn, Executive Director of the Thai Trade Center New York, to unpack how government-backed strategies have helped Thai restaurants flourish worldwide, and how those same playbooks are now being applied to fashion, lifestyle brands, and beyond.From the rise of Thai Select certification to pop-up shops in New York Fashion Week, this conversation looks at how Thailand is connecting culture, commerce, and global markets, and what it means for U.S. businesses and investors.

16. 

    19 Mar 2026

    What Southeast Asia’s Digital Economy Growth Means for U.S. Businesses | Asia Forward | Episode 4

    Southeast Asia’s digital economy is expanding at a rapid pace, creating new opportunities as well as challenges for U.S. businesses. In this episode of Asia Forward podcast, host Ei Thant Sin speaks with John Goyer, Vice President for Southeast Asia and Oceania at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, about how the region’s digital transformation is reshaping trade, investment and competition. From the rise of fintech ecosystems that “leapfrogging” Western markets to the growing importance of international data flows, Goyer explains why Southeast Asia has become a critical frontier for global companies. The conversation also explores how recent trade agreements, evolving tariff policies and regulatory shifts, including data governance and digital trade rules, are impacting market access for U.S. firms. Goyer highlights both the opportunities in fast-growing economies like Indonesia and the persistent challenges, from non-tariff barriers to infrastructure and energy constraints tied to AI and data centers. He also notes that while Myanmar has seen interest across sectors, high political and economic risks continue to limit long-term investment, as its underlying market potential remains.

17. 

    5 Mar 2026

    From Bangkok to the World | Asia Forward | Episode 3

    In Episode 3 of Asia Forward, host Ledy Simarmata sits down with Tan Sawaddichai, Project Director of What Do You Want New York and curator of a Thai fashion showcase “Up to the Sky” during New York Fashion Week in February. Together, they explore how designers from Bangkok are stepping onto the global stage, and what it takes to bring Southeast Asia’s creative talent to U.S. and international audiences. Tan shares how Thailand’s fashion industry is gaining global recognition, with government initiatives playing a role in supporting the country’s creative economy. From organizing a successful runway show at the One World Observatory in New York City to building a growing fan base and growing commercial sales for Thai designers in the U.S. fashion capital, he explains why New York remains an important gateway for designers looking to expand beyond Asia.

18. 

    19 Feb 2026

    What Uncertainty in Myanmar Means for Southeast Asia’s Investment Outlook | Asia Forward | Episode 2

    In Episode 2 of Asia Forward, host Ei Thant Sin speaks with Ambassador Susan Stevenson, former Charge d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Yangon from 2023-2026, about the realities of doing business in Myanmar amid political instability, sanctions, and ongoing conflict. Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar’s economy has been shaped by currency controls, import restrictions, U.S. sanctions on military-linked entities and financial blacklisting. Yet despite the conflict and reputational risks, parts of the private sector continue operating, and businesses on the ground show notable resilience. This episode explores the real business climate in Myanmar in 2026 and what U.S. companies need to consider before entering, staying in or exiting the market. The conversation dives deep into political risk, sanctions compliance, supply chain shifts in Southeast Asia, rare earth minerals and critical resources, the rise of the shadow economy, labor shortages, digital payments, and Myanmar’s role within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). As Southeast Asia positions itself as a supply-chain alternative beyond China, where does Myanmar fit, if at all? This conversation offers essential context for investors, policymakers, and business leaders navigating emerging market risk. What We Discussed: Introduction: How Myanmar’s political instability shapes its investment outlook in Southeast Asia. 1:50 What the situation on the ground in Myanmar looks like beyond the headlines. 4:59 What Myanmar’s elections could mean for political stability and economic liberalization. 8:29 Whether Myanmar can be considered a failed state in 2026, and what the economy on the ground reveals. 10:43 How Myanmar’s shadow economy, scam centers and transnational crime are reshaping the country’s economic landscape. 14:05 How brain drain, labor shortages and migration are reshaping Myanmar’s workforce. 15:29 Do U.S. sanctions on Myanmar’s military work, and how are they affecting the broader economy? 17:44 How U.S. businesses can avoid military-linked entities while operating in Myanmar. 21:06 How Myanmar’s rare earth minerals and critical resources factor into U.S. supply chain strategy. 23:16 Is it possible to surpass working with sanctioned entities when trying to get critical minerals out of Myanmar. 23:57 How U.S. companies can compete with and complement China’s dominant presence in Myanmar. 26:10 What Ambassador Stevenson sees as her most meaningful contribution during Myanmar’s post-coup transition. 28:10 What Myanmar’s role could be in Southeast Asia’s economy over the next five years. 30:03 What prolonged instability means for Myanmar’s economy and its place in ASEAN’s development agenda. 32:24 Whether Myanmar could benefit from supply chain diversification beyond China, and in which sectors the U.S. may have an early advantage. 34:40 Whether Myanmar can adapt to digital payments, fintech and a modern banking system. 37:13 How capital controls and financial restrictions affect companies trying to move money in and out of Myanmar. 39:03 What other risks beyond sanctions could deter U.S. companies from entering Myanmar, and what factors they must consider. Why Asia Forward? Our podcast series brings you straight-talk conversations with leaders, experts and change makers about Southeast Asia’s growth and what it means for U.S. audiences. Check out our website at www.asiaforward.org. Find us and connect with us on our socials: IG: https://www.instagram.com/asiaforwardLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asiaforward/Let us know what topic you'd like us to discuss and drop a message or two on info@asiaforward.org.

19. 

    5 Feb 2026

    Why Southeast Asia, Why Now? | Asia Forward | Episode 1

    Southeast Asia is one of the world’s fastest-growing regions, yet it remains underrepresented in U.S. global business strategy. The first episode of Asia Forward examines why a region with hundreds of millions of consumers and a multi-trillion-dollar economy has often been overlooked by U.S. companies, and why that dynamic is beginning to change. In this episode of Asia Forward, host Ledy SImarmata speaks with Frank Lavin, former U.S. Under Secretary for International Trade and former U.S. Ambassador to Singapore. Drawing on his experience in trade policy, diplomacy and global business, Lavin explains why Southeast Asia’s diversity can be challenging for U.S. firms, and why technology and e-commerce are lowering the cost of entry. The conversation also looks at how Southeast Asia fits into the China+1 strategy of supply-chain diversification and why the region still appears less frequently in U.S. business conversations. A portion of the episode focuses on U.S. investment patterns, including why a large share of U.S. foreign direct investment in ASEAN flows through Singapore and how much of that capital is actually deployed across other Southeast Asian economies. The episode concludes with a forward-looking assessment of which Southeast Asian markets may warrant closer attention in 2026, why the gap between U.S. and Southeast Asia business engagement is narrowing, and the risks for U.S. companies that choose not to engage. It also considers how soft power and people-to-people ties shape long-term business relationships.

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