US-CHINA RIVALRY SHAPES ASIA-PACIFIC

The dominant Asia-Pacific story is intensifying US-China rivalry, which is reshaping regional security, trade routes, and diplomatic alignments. Maritime chokepoints, Taiwan, and the South China Sea remain the most sensitive flashpoints as both powers compete for strategic influence. At the same time, trade in the region is being redirected toward ASEAN, India, and high-tech supply chains, especially chips and AI-related equipment. Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan are strengthening cooperation to manage coercion risks and preserve stability without direct confrontation.