On June 19, 2025, the Asia Pacific Initiative (API) hosted a private roundtable discussion on economic coercion and sanctions, welcoming Ms. Emily Kilcrease, Director of the Economic Statecraft Program, and Mr. Jon Hughes, Visiting Senior Fellow in the same program, from the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) in the United States.

The primary focus of this meeting was the strategic design and implementation of economic sanctions, and how to construct their overarching framework. The discussion began by examining lessons and principles drawn from historical cases, including U.S. economic sanctions during both World Wars and the Cuban Missile Crisis, alongside modern examples since 9/11. Lively exchanges also covered sanction cases involving Russia and North Korea, as well as the impact of U.S.-China rivalry on the understanding and positioning of economic sanctions.

During the discussion, deep insights were shared regarding Southeast Asian countries’ complex positions amidst ongoing U.S.-China economic interdependence, and how each nation balances security with economic interests. The conversation also touched upon concrete opportunities for Japan to strengthen its ties with ASEAN nations and contribute to regional stability and prosperity.