Indonesian media: Vietnam's growing economic influence becomes more evident

An article published by seasia.co on April 6 compares the 10 Asian economies with the largest nominal GDP over the period 1980–2025, showing a major shift in the region’s economic center from Japan toward China and India. It also argues that Southeast Asia is emerging as an increasingly important force.

Cause: A changing economic map across Asia

The comparison for 1980–2025 highlights a profound change in Asia’s economic hierarchy: Japan’s lead gives way to China and India. The article attributes the current concentration of growth to large-scale economies, a young population, and rapid urbanization.

It also points to the rise of “medium powers,” citing Korea’s movement to the fourth position. Indonesia remains in the top five and is described as becoming Southeast Asia’s largest economy.

Development: Southeast Asia gains visibility in the top ranks

By 2025, Southeast Asia is portrayed as asserting its role more firmly, with Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand all appearing in the top 10. At the same time, the article notes that some economies—specifically Iran, the Philippines, and Pakistan—have been displaced from the top 10, reflecting shifts in regional power relations.

While Vietnam is not assessed as being in the top 10 at either time point, the article says its influence is becoming increasingly clear. It similarly highlights Vietnam and Malaysia as gaining momentum through manufacturing, electronics, digital commerce, and supply-chain diversification.

Data and themes cited in the article

• The study period spans 1980 to 2025, comparing the 10 largest Asian economies by nominal GDP.
• Japan is described as leading in 1980, while China and India are described as leading by 2025.
• Korea is cited as moving to the fourth position.
• Indonesia is cited as remaining in the top five and becoming Southeast Asia’s largest economy.
• In 2025, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand are cited as being in the top 10.
• Iran, the Philippines, and Pakistan are cited as having been displaced from the top 10.

Impact: Why Vietnam and Southeast Asia are gaining influence

The article argues that Vietnam and Southeast Asia are benefiting from global trends that seek alternatives, additions, and new production centers. It frames the region’s growing role as tied to demographics, urbanization, expanding consumer classes, and its strategic position between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific.

Analysis: The “Asian Century” and the next chapter

The author suggests that if 1980 belonged to Japan and 2025 to China and India, the next chapter may increasingly belong to the southern part of Asia—especially Southeast Asia. In this view, Indonesia’s rise is a clear demonstration of the trend, while Singapore and Thailand continue to consolidate their positions and Vietnam and Malaysia contribute to the momentum.