The 2023-2024 Fellows, Apoorva Vishnoi, Poomthawat Wachirapornpruet and Yaxin Guo will be carrying out their research from October 2023 until September 2024.

The Fellows are asked to complete a major research project on the issues shaping Asia and the Middle East. This year’s Fellows will focus on themes including data regulation in ASEAN and ESG governance in China.

ESG governance in China’s manufacturing industry

Yaxin, who has recently graduated with a distinction in a Master of Public Administration in Economic Policy from the London School of Economics, will focus on the impact of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) on regulations and practices in China’s export-intensity manufacturing industry. Her research aims to provide valuable policy insights for the development of China’s manufacturing sector and investment recommendations within the context of ESG policy implementation.

Yaxin will be based in London and brings with her extensive experience in policy research, particularly in climate change and environmental policy.

Data regimes in ASEAN

Poomthawat’s research focus will be data regulatory regimes in ASEAN, primarily regarding personal data. His work will aim to understand the vast array of regulations involved and how they interplay.

Originally from Thailand but based in London, Poomthawat’s research will highlight opportunities for regional cooperation in data regulation and provide recommendations on how businesses can take advantage of regulatory harmonisation to boost their digital trade flows. This research is timely as ASEAN has begun negotiations on the Digital Economy Framework Agreement, which is slated to be completed by the end of 2025.

Gap in trade agreements

Apoorva’s project will focus on the innovation gap in trade agreements negotiated by Asian countries vis-à-vis those negotiated by large economies, including the EU and the US. This work will continue Apoorva’s keen interest in exploring the intersection of international economic law, international relations and public policy.

Her research will look at how trade agreements negotiated by Asian countries can be more effective for businesses and better reflect the economic, social, environmental and other policy interests.

Find out more about the previous Asia House Fellows here.