Amidst renewed tensions between the United States and China, middle powers have leveraged their geostrategic importance in the Indo-Pacifc region. The US-China trade war and the pandemic, in particular, have shifted the structure of the global economy and states’ objectives. Geopolitical rivalry between the United States, China, and the EU appears to be a continuing trend that will affect strategic deci- sions. In addition, technological changes are leading to an increased use of economic statecraft as middle powers attempt to protect key industries and supply chains from outside interference. Finally, international institutions, created to promote cooperation, are changing because of increased competition. In particular, the popularity of existing organizations is declining with the United States, China, and middle powers creating new institutions that better reflect their current preferences.
