James Borton, Freelance Journalist Profile

Articles

Vietnam's fortunes actually take a dramatic turn, and not for worst

1 week ago | responsiblestatecraft.org | James Borton

Vietnam’s trade fortunes have taken a dramatic turn. Once slapped with a staggering 46% tariff in President Donald Trump’s initial “Liberation Day” trade offensive, the Southeast Asian nation now finds itself in a much better spot — benefiting from a reduced 10% tariff rate, in line with most other countries. It’s a striking reversal that highlights Hanoi’s stepped-up diplomatic hustle on the global stage.
Vietnam to Trump: 'Just Don't Do It' on tariffs

2 weeks ago | asiatimes.com | James Borton

With the NCAA Championship final set to grip millions of basketball fans in the US and beyond, demand for athletic shoes and gear is reportedly skyrocketing. The March Madness tournament isn’t just a showcase of college basketball talent; it’s also a massive marketing opportunity for sportswear giants like Nike and Adidas, whose products dominate the hardwood courts. But while these brands enjoy heightened visibility amid the spectacle, their supply chains face a looming crisis.
Whither the Quiet American? The Harmful Bombast of Trump’s Presidency

1 month ago | geopoliticalmonitor.com | James Borton

In an age where political discourse is dominated by spectacle, bombast, and relentless self-promotion, the United States could benefit from the quiet, introspective cynicism of Graham Greene’s The Quiet American. Just over a month into his presidency, Donald Trump’s White House has been defined by incendiary rhetoric, brash nationalism, and transactional realpolitik, often prioritizing bold declarations over measured diplomacy.
Opinion | How Trump’s hobbling of USAID cedes Southeast Asia to Chinese influence

2 months ago | scmp.com | James Borton

The Trump administration’s decision to freeze international assistance and gut federal agencies has sent shock waves across the globe, with profound implications for Southeast Asia. One of the most significant consequences is the shuttering of United States Agency for International Development programmes, a move that threatens to disrupt humanitarian aid, development initiatives and disaster relief efforts across the Greater Mekong region. Since its establishment in 1961 by US president John F.
Navigating US-Southeast Asia Relations under the Trump Administration

2 months ago | geopoliticalmonitor.com | James Borton

As Southeast Asia solidifies its role as a critical region for global trade and security, it offers both challenges and opportunities for the United States. While the Trump administration is rapidly rolling out its promised ‘America First’ agenda, fostering robust relationships with Southeast Asian nations is essential for maintaining US economic and strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific.
Opinion | How the US can challenge China’s dominance over critical minerals

Jan 23, 2025 | scmp.com | James Borton

US President Donald Trump’s administration is expected to drive an “America first” agenda that is poised to harness the untapped potential of deep-sea minerals to strengthen US critical mineral supply chains and cut dependence on China. Deep-sea mining is becoming a key battleground in the race to secure access to cobalt, nickel, manganese and copper, minerals abundant in the ocean floor and vital to infrastructure, defence and energy systems.
Opinion | In a Trump 2.0 trade war against China, Vietnam stands to benefit again

Dec 31, 2024 | scmp.com | James Borton

April 30 will mark 50 years since the fall of Saigon, effectively ending the Vietnam war. Since then, US-Vietnam relations have evolved into a strong, multifaceted partnership, defined by shared economic interests, strategic alignment and mutual respect. Once adversaries, the two nations now collaborate on a wide range of issues, from trade and investment to regional security and climate change.
Vietnam quiet, firm and resilient in the South China Sea

Dec 8, 2024 | asiatimes.com | James Borton

The South China Sea has long been a cauldron of tension and ambition, with overlapping claims from several nations converging in the resource-rich and strategically vital waterway. At the heart of the geopolitical theater is the fraught and historically turbulent relationship between Vietnam and China. Once allies during the Cold War, the two nations now find themselves on opposing sides of an escalating territorial dispute.
Opinion | China’s marine conservation efforts prioritise symbolism over substance

Nov 11, 2024 | scmp.com | James Borton

China and Russia have reportedly blocked proposals for new marine protected areas (MPAs) at an international conference in Hobart, Australia, focused on preserving Antarctic marine life. Their efforts highlight a complex mix of geopolitical, economic and environmental interests. Their behaviour also underscores how nationalism is being asserted in resource-rich regions like the Southern Ocean, where fishing rights, mineral reserves and territorial claims hold high value.
Opinion | Hollywood needs to know there is more to Vietnam than war stories

Oct 7, 2024 | scmp.com | James Borton

Vietnam is poised to leverage cinema as a tool for soft diplomacy, aiming to enhance its global reputation and attract more tourists. As part of this strategy, representatives from Vietnam’s tourism and cinema sectors recently visited Hollywood to promote the country as a vibrant and attractive filming destination. Their goal is to inspire global filmmakers to showcase Vietnam’s natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, moving beyond the traditional focus on war-related narratives.