US-CHINA RIVALRY DOMINATES

The most important Asia & Oceania story is the intensifying U.S.-China rivalry shaping regional geopolitics, trade, and security across the Asia-Pacific. The contest centers on maritime chokepoints, Taiwan, the South China Sea, and critical trade routes linking East Asia to global energy and manufacturing flows. Trade is also being reshaped as Asia-Pacific economies deepen ties within ASEAN and high-tech supply chains while navigating tariff pressure and economic-security policies. The result is a region where strategic competition and economic interdependence are increasing at the same time.