Philippines, Thailand primed as next supply chain 'rising stars'

Philippines, Thailand primed as next supply chain “rising stars” as Verisk Maplecroft highlights underutilized economies that could gain roles in global trade routes. The UK-based risk intelligence firm said Thailand, the Philippines and Argentina are among promising markets for diversification as companies look to build resilience beyond cost and efficiency. It warned that one-third of the world’s busiest ports and airports are vulnerable to disruption from conflicts, environmental risks, and domestic security threats, while trade resilience has deteriorated in more than 150 countries covering 90% of global trade. Verisk Maplecroft cited near-term headwinds for Thailand and the Philippines linked to the Strait of Hormuz shutdown amid the US-Israel conflict with Iran, but argued longer-term positioning could still prove attractive. The firm evaluated openness, regulatory strength and labor rights. For the Philippines, potential exists despite a corruption scandal tied to flood mitigation contracts and political turmoil involving President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte. Thailand’s risks decreased over five years, supported by electronics and AI investment, despite an aging and higher-cost workforce.