W.85: Economic and Environmental Challenges in Asia

What is one of the main reasons for the increased role of South and East Asian countries in the global economy?

• Strict trade barriers

• Economic liberalization

• Decreased foreign investment

• High labor costs

Which countries have heavily invested in infrastructure development to enhance productivity and trade?

• Japan and Thailand

• China, India, and South Korea

• Vietnam and Malaysia

• Indonesia and Philippines

What factor has made several Asian countries attractive destinations for outsourcing and manufacturing?

• High energy costs

• Low labor costs and skilled workforces

• Limited government support

• Lack of infrastructure

Which industries have seen growth due to technology and innovation in Asian countries?

• Agriculture and mining

• Electronics, IT, and biotechnology

• Textile and apparel

• Tourism and hospitality

What demographic factor contributes to the economic growth of many Asian countries?

• Aging population

• Large and youthful populations

• High unemployment rates

• Low birth rates

What has the rise of South and East Asian countries led to in terms of global economic power?

• Strengthening of Western economies

• Rebalancing of global economic power

• Decline in global trade

• Decrease in economic interdependence

Which country is mentioned as a major economic powerhouse challenging the dominance of the United States and Europe?

• India

• Japan

• China

• South Korea

What has the growing economic importance of Asian countries resulted in?

• Decreased trade and investment

• Increased trade and investment

• Isolation from global markets

• Reduction in business opportunities

What are some of the regional blocs and trading agreements mentioned in the text?

• NAFTA, EU, MERCOSUR

• ASEAN, RCEP, Belt and Road Initiative

• TPP, APEC, SAARC

• OPEC, WTO, G20

What are some of the challenges faced by many Asian countries despite rapid economic growth?

• Technological advancement

• Income inequality, uneven development, and poverty

• Political stability

• Cultural diversity