As relations with the US worsen, China is focusing its efforts on the Global South. Home to 85% of the world's population and 39% of global GDP, gaining influence in this region is key to winning the upper-hand over the US.

Across Southeast Asia, China is promoting its interests and influence by funding big infrastructure projects, from railways and ports, to EV plants and industrial parks. However, these investments have not been enough to paper over unresolved differences between China and its neighbours in one of the world’s most volatile regions: the South China Sea. 

With Trump’s tariff war underway, many are wondering if Southeast Asian nations will be pushed closer to China. But are leaders willing overlook the negative effects of Chinese investment, as well as disputes over the South China Sea?