Big Take Asia

Mauritius and neighboring islands in the Indian Ocean are at the center of a great-power chess match involving the US, China and India. All want to use them as bases to protect shipping lanes and project military might in the region. On today’s Big Take Asia Podcast, host K. Oanh Ha is joined by Bloomberg correspondent Peter Martin to discuss the power struggle, and the implications of China’s growing clout in the region. Further listening: The Shadowy Fleet of Tankers Moving Iranian Oil to China  Watch, from Originals: China’s Power Play In the Indian OceanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this engaging discussion, John Liu, Bloomberg's senior executive editor for Greater China, shares insights on China's economic challenges. He highlights the country's ambitious 5% growth target amidst a crippling property crisis and trade tensions with the U.S. Liu explores the troubling decline in consumer spending and the strategies aimed at revitalizing it, including enhancing tech innovation and job creation. The conversation sheds light on the complex dynamics of consumer reluctance, offering a compelling look at the future of China’s economy.

Lucille Liu, a Bloomberg reporter based in Beijing, shares her expertise on China's tech landscape. She discusses President Xi Jinping's surprising outreach to Jack Ma and other tech leaders, suggesting a potential thaw in relations after years of strict regulations. The conversation dives into the historical tensions between the government and tech firms, questioning the sustainability of this newfound cooperation. Liu also touches on the broader challenges facing the sector, including the impacts of the COVID lockdown and geopolitical tensions with the U.S.

In this engaging discussion, Spencer Soper, a seasoned Bloomberg journalist with extensive expertise in e-commerce, dives into the rise of Temu as a major competitor to Amazon. He outlines how Temu has leveraged tariff loopholes to offer rock-bottom prices, drawing in budget-conscious consumers. The conversation also unpacks the ramifications of recent trade policy changes on Temu and similar platforms, highlighting the potential fallout for American shoppers as competition and pricing dynamics shift amidst evolving regulations.

Thailand's historic step to recognize same-sex marriage is celebrated with nearly 2,000 couples tying the knot. Hear personal stories from a lesbian couple whose wedding day symbolizes a cultural milestone. The discussion dives into the potential economic boost from 'rainbow tourism' and the broader implications for LGBTQ rights. Legal recognition expands to include property rights and healthcare for same-sex couples, while addressing ongoing cultural challenges. Recent legislative proposals aim to further enhance LGBTQ rights in the country.

Shuli Ren, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist focused on China's economy and politics, dives into China's nuanced response to U.S. tariffs imposed during Trump's administration. The discussion reveals how China has adopted a more strategic and less confrontational approach, drawing parallels with Tai Chi. Ren highlights the long-term economic strategies of China versus the U.S.'s short-term focus and addresses the potential consequences of a renewed trade war. He also examines Xi Jinping's steady demeanor and Beijing's efforts to strengthen alliances amid rising tensions.

Enda Curran, Bloomberg's global economy reporter, shares his expertise on the chaotic landscape of tariffs. He unpacks President Trump's recent announcements of 25% tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and a 10% tariff on China. The discussion highlights the immediate market volatility and the economic implications for businesses and consumers. Curran also explores how these tariffs might reshape global trade dynamics and provoke further international negotiations in the face of increasing protectionism.

Bloomberg’s Chongjing Li offers insights into the booming gold market in China, particularly in Shubei, a major retail hub. As the property crisis and economic slowdowns push consumers towards gold, demand spikes, soaring prices to record highs. Li discusses how live streamers influence younger buyers, making gold both a trendy investment and a cultural staple for significant life events. Additionally, the impact of central bank purchases and geopolitical tensions on market dynamics adds another layer to gold's enduring allure in China.

Gao Yuan, a technology reporter with Bloomberg based in Singapore, dives into the intriguing migration of American TikTok users to the Chinese platform Xiaohongshu, also known as RedNote. Discussing the unique blend of cultures, he reveals heartwarming stories of connection and friendship across borders. They cover the challenges of navigating data privacy and regulatory landscapes, while examining how this influx could impact the app's future amid geopolitical tensions. Will the convivial vibes last, or will cultural differences emerge?

Join K. Oanh Ha, a senior reporter at Bloomberg specializing in South Korea's medical tourism, as she delves into the booming demand for cosmetic procedures in the country. With 600,000 medical tourists flocking to South Korea in 2023, Oanh discusses the striking paradox of a Botox boom amid a shortage of qualified doctors. She explores the cultural significance of beauty treatments, the impact on the healthcare system, and personal stories from those seeking affordable enhancements. It’s a fascinating look at beauty, health, and economic pressures.