Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF)

With China poised to enter the conversation, it’s critical for Washington to overcome internal obstacles and negotiation troubles to leave its mark on digital trade rules. 

That IPEF member countries have come so far since the group's establishment a year ago suggests that there is a near unanimous view about supply chain vulnerabilities.

With little leverage to pursue legally binding trade deals, the Biden administration is forced to resort to economic unilateralism.

U.S. involvement in the region needs a larger economic component – an area where U.S. policy used to be strong.

Asian countries have long worried about U.S. economic commitment to the region.

Both Seoul and Tokyo are part of the U.S.-lead economic initiative. Can it help break the ice between the two?

Insights from Raymond Kuo.

It is uncertain whether the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework can succeed in reshaping China’s economic influence in Asia.

Participation in the new U.S. initiative could advance Vietnam’s aspiration for economic gains and a firm status in the regional economic architecture, but its full-fledged engagement is unlikely.

IPEF’s evolution and prospects will partly hinge on how U.S. and regional partners define its value add in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Changing sentiments at home mean the United States is now more enthusiastic about enforcing trade rules than facilitating trade.