Japan's economic presence in Southeast Asia continues to thrive, despite competition with Chinese companies for regional opportunities. In an opinion piece by Guanie Lim, an assistant professor of development studies at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies in Tokyo, it is highlighted that Japan's involvement in building infrastructure in Southeast Asia is a testament to its enduring commitment to the region. Lim specifically mentions Japan's funding and participation in projects such as Ho Chi Minh City's rapid transit network, which is partially financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and constructed by Japan's Hitachi [f0eae5d2].
The article emphasizes that Japan's close ties with Southeast Asia offer valuable lessons for the United States. It argues that the competition with Chinese companies for regional opportunities should not be viewed as a zero-sum game. Instead, Japan's success in the region demonstrates the importance of long-term investment, collaboration, and building trust with local partners. Japan's economic engagement in Southeast Asia extends beyond infrastructure projects, with significant foreign direct investment and trade between the two regions. This enduring economic presence solidifies Japan's position as a key player in Southeast Asia [f0eae5d2].
Japan's economic investments in Southeast Asia have been instrumental in strengthening its relationship with the region. Despite the rise of China's economic influence, Japan's commitment to Southeast Asia remains steadfast. Over the past decade, Japanese foreign direct investment in Southeast Asia has totaled $198 billion, surpassing China's $106 billion. This significant investment has established warm ties between Japan and Southeast Asian countries since the Second World War. Japan's soft power, including its norms, ethics, and childhood education system, has also contributed to its trusted partnership with Southeast Asian nations. Japan's adherence to Islamic norms and production of halal food have further endeared it to the region. While competition for aid from countries like South Korea, Thailand, and Indonesia exists, Japan's position in Southeast Asia is irreplaceable [2c397c12].
Japan's economic presence in Southeast Asia is not fading away, as it continues to actively engage in the region's development. The article highlights that Japan's involvement in infrastructure projects, such as the rapid transit network in Ho Chi Minh City, demonstrates its commitment to long-term investment and collaboration. This commitment is further reinforced by Japan's significant foreign direct investment in Southeast Asia, which surpasses China's investment in the region. Japan's soft power and adherence to Islamic norms have also contributed to its trusted partnership with Southeast Asian nations. While competition for aid exists, Japan's position in Southeast Asia remains strong and indispensable [f0eae5d2][2c397c12].