US-CHINA RIVALRY DRIVES ASIA-PACIFIC GEOPOLITICAL RISK IN 2026

The US-China rivalry is the primary geopolitical force shaping political and strategic dynamics across the Asia-Pacific region in 2026. Washington and Beijing are intensifying competition to control maritime routes, secure energy resources, and militarize critical areas including the Senkaku, Spratly, and Paracel Islands. China is strengthening its military capabilities near Korea and in the South China Sea while conducting major exercises like Justice Mission 2025 and Peace and Friendship-2025. Taiwan remains a critical point for regional security due to its technological centrality, anchoring deep involvement from the US and its allies.