As competition between the United States and China intensifies, Southeast Asia has emerged as one of the world's most important geopolitical battlegrounds. But despite growing tensions in the South China Sea and mounting pressure from Washington and Beijing, public opinion across much of the region remains more favorable toward China than many policymakers assume.

A new report from the Asia Society Policy Institute reveals how economic ties, consumer brands, and everyday interactions are reshaping perceptions of China in Southeast Asia. Kevin Zhongzhe Li, one of the report's lead authors, joins Eric from Jakarta to explain why this trend is particularly important in the region's "swing" states.

📌 Topics Covered in This Episode

Why China is gaining an edge over the U.S. in Southeast Asia
How public opinion toward China has shifted over the past two decades
The role of Chinese investment, EVs, and consumer brands in shaping perceptions
Why South China Sea disputes affect countries differently
The gap between elite and public views of China across the region
Common U.S. and Chinese misconceptions about Southeast Asia

Show Notes:

Asia Society Policy Institute: Global Public Opinion on China: China's Standing in Southeast Asia's Swing States by Kevin Zhongshe Li
South China Morning Post: 'Practical' young Africans leaning towards China over US and away from ideology by Jevans Nyabiage
Pew Research Center: Views of China and Xi Are Improving Globally by Laura Silver, Jonathan Schulman, Laura Clancy and William Miner

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China is Outpacing the U.S. in Southeast Asia

The China-Global South Podcast

China is Outpacing the U.S. in Southeast Asia