The United States is committed to upholding a free and open Indo-Pacific region based on shared values, including respect for sovereignty and the independence of nations; the peaceful resolution of disputes; free, fair, and reciprocal trade; and adherence to international law. We work with our allies and partners, bilaterally and through regional institutions, to address shared challenges and advance these values. U.S. government agencies, businesses, and institutions are: spurring private sector-led investment, with a particular focus on infrastructure, energy, and the digital economy; strengthening civil society and democratic institutions; countering transnational threats; and investing in human capital across the Indo-Pacific.
Economic Prosperity
U.S. economic engagement improves market access and competitiveness, facilitates business-to-business ties, and promotes free, fair, and reciprocal trade.
- In 2018, the United States conducted over $1.9 trillion in two-way trade with the region, supporting more than 5.1 million jobs in the region.
- ASEAN is the top destination for U.S. investment in the Indo-Pacific, with $271 billion in cumulative U.S. investment in ASEAN in 2018. Trade Winds, the largest U.S. trade mission of 2019, brought 100 U.S. companies to India and Bangladesh.
- At the November 2019 Indo-Pacific Business Forum, the United States launched several new initiatives, including the Blue Dot Network, which advances high-standard infrastructure development.
Good Governance
U.S. programs empower citizens and civil societies, combat corruption, and build resilience to foreign influence that threatens nations’ sovereignty.
- The Indo-Pacific Transparency Initiative focuses on anti-corruption, fiscal transparency, democracy assistance, youth development, media freedom, and protecting fundamental freedoms and human rights.
- Our efforts involve over 200 programs totaling more than $600 million since the beginning of the Trump Administration.
Security
The United States works with allies and partners to counter transnational crime, protect the maritime domain, address environmental challenges, and respond to emerging threats.
- Approximately 375,000 U.S. military and civilian personnel are assigned to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility.
- The Department of State and USAID have provided over $1.1 billion in security assistance for South and Southeast Asia since the start of the Trump Administration, with millions more from the Department of Defense.
Human Capital
U.S. investment in human capital empowers individuals and communities.
- Thousands of U.S. companies in the Indo-Pacific help create jobs, uphold good labor and environmental practices, and spread their spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship.
- U.S. government education and exchange programs have reached millions across the Indo-Pacific region, with thousands engaged directly in training.
- Some 730,000 students studying in the United States are from the Indo-Pacific.