Global Issues Explained |  Beyond China: How Southeast Asia is Rewriting Global Supply Chains

Global Issues Explained |  Beyond China: How Southeast Asia is Rewriting Global Supply Chains

From Universidad EAFIT by Universidad EAFIT

June 1, 2026 · 30 min

About this episode

This episode explores the rise of Southeast Asia as a key player in global supply chains and the implications for globalization.

In this episode of Global Issues Explained , we dive into the rise of Southeast Asia as one of the world’s most important supply chain hubs. Together with Esteban Suarez, we explore how countries like Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia have transformed into key players in global manufacturing and logistics. From the “China Plus One” strategy to the growing role of geopolitics in trade, we discuss why multinational companies are diversifying production, how ASEAN countries complement each other through specialized industries, and what this shift means for the future of globalization. We also touch on ethical concerns surrounding labor conditions, the impact of de-globalization trends, and what countries like Colombia can learn from Southeast Asia’s development model. Join us as we unpack how global supply chains are being reshaped, and why Southeast Asia is at the center of it all.

People in this episode

Guest: Esteban Suarez

Topics covered

  • global supply chains
  • Southeast Asia
  • manufacturing
  • geopolitics
  • de-globalization
  • labor conditions

Keywords

  • supply chain
  • Vietnam
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Indonesia
  • geopolitics
  • manufacturing
  • ASEAN
  • labor conditions

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: ASEAN

Places: Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Colombia, Southeast Asia

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