Global competition over resources is intensifying as major powers move away from market logic and toward direct control over critical assets, energy supplies and supply chains. The discussion then examines how the US, China and Japan are increasingly using oil, rare earths and dual-use materials as tools of leverage, reshaping trade norms and redefining dependence as a security risk. Finally, the focus shifts to future resource frontiers, such as Africa, where infrastructure diplomacy and early positioning are becoming central to long term influence and access. Is the world entering a new era of resource-driven power politics? In this episode, we examine resource imperialism, trace how minerals and energy are weaponized and assess what these trends mean for Taiwan in a changing global order.
*Recorded on January 14, 2026 at 2:00pm Taiwan Standard Time
Host: Ethan Liu
Producer: Tina Hsu
Our guests:
Titus Chen
- National Chengchi University Institute of International Relations Research Professor and Deputy Director
Kuo Yu-jen
- National Sun Yat-sen University Institute of China and Asia-Pacific Studies Professor and Director
Yao-Yuan Yeh
- University of St. Thomas, Houston, International Studies and Modern Languages Professor and Endowed Chair
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