This Asian city is the only one among the top 10 best global cities in the world
The Oxford Economics Global Cities Index ranked 1,000 top global cities in 2025 and only one Asian city has made it to top 10—is it your hometown?
The Oxford Economics Global Cities Index ranked 1,000 top global cities in 2025 and only one Asian city has made it to top 10—is it your hometown?
The Oxford Economics Global Cities Index recently published its ranking of 1,000 top global cities in 2025 and there's only one Asian city in the top 10: Tokyo at ninth position.
Despite Asia's economic powerhouse status, this comprehensive ranking of 1,000 cities worldwide shows a significant gap between Asia's leading urban centres and their Western counterparts. While New York retains the crown followed by London and Paris, Seoul is at 15th place and Singapore sits at 21st—the only two cities, apart from Tokyo, to be on the top 50 list.
The United States dominates the rankings, claiming seven of the top 10 spots and 16 positions in the top 50. Australia also performs strongly with four cities in the top 50, while European cities are well-represented throughout the upper tiers.
The methodology is based on economic dynamism, environmental sustainability, governance, human capital development and quality of life considerations.
Read now: These are the world's most powerful passports in 2025
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Tatler Asia
2 days ago
- Tatler Asia
This Asian city is the only one among the top 10 best global cities in the world
The Oxford Economics Global Cities Index ranked 1,000 top global cities in 2025 and only one Asian city has made it to top 10—is it your hometown? The Oxford Economics Global Cities Index ranked 1,000 top global cities in 2025 and only one Asian city has made it to top 10—is it your hometown? The Oxford Economics Global Cities Index recently published its ranking of 1,000 top global cities in 2025 and there's only one Asian city in the top 10: Tokyo at ninth position. Despite Asia's economic powerhouse status, this comprehensive ranking of 1,000 cities worldwide shows a significant gap between Asia's leading urban centres and their Western counterparts. While New York retains the crown followed by London and Paris, Seoul is at 15th place and Singapore sits at 21st—the only two cities, apart from Tokyo, to be on the top 50 list. The United States dominates the rankings, claiming seven of the top 10 spots and 16 positions in the top 50. Australia also performs strongly with four cities in the top 50, while European cities are well-represented throughout the upper tiers. The methodology is based on economic dynamism, environmental sustainability, governance, human capital development and quality of life considerations. Read now: These are the world's most powerful passports in 2025
Tatler Asia
5 days ago
- Tatler Asia
What are luxury brands doing in the face of trade tariffs?
Above Maroquinerie de Louviers in Normandy is Hermès' 21st workshop (Photo: Hermès) Many high-end brands have also accelerated domestic production capabilities in the last few years. Whether these were in direct relation to imposed tariffs is unknown. For instance, LVMH has increased its European production capabilities, particularly for Louis Vuitton leather goods. Two new ateliers have opened in France in 2022 and increased hiring has been widely reported. Similarly, Richemont, Van Cleef & Arpels' parent company, has been investing in expanding its French manufacturing footprint for the jewellery brand, including plans to open two new workshops in France by 2026. This will create approximately 600 new jobs. In April 2023, Hermès opened a new leather workshop, Maroquinerie de Louviers, in Normandy. Since 2010, Hermès has opened 11 leather goods workshops in France. Read more: The Arnault effect: how LVMH defines global luxury, indulgence and desire TikTok manufacturing exposé Above Viral TikToks show luxury bags made in Chinese factories (Photo: Screenshot of TikTok) The trade tensions have sparked an unexpected cultural phenomenon that further complicates the luxury industry's narrative. In April 2025, Chinese manufacturers began flooding TikTok with viral videos claiming to expose the truth behind luxury goods manufacturing; factory owners present themselves as the original equipment manufacturers for major luxury brands while standing in front of walls of what appear to be expensive handbags. These 'Trade War TikTok' videos feature sales agents breaking down the material costs of luxury goods, claiming items like Hermès Birkin bags and Lululemon leggings cost just a fraction of their retail prices to produce. However, experts labelled many of these claims as false, noting that the videos represent a form of mass consumer disinformation rather than factual exposés; a well-oiled machine to sell high-quality counterfeit goods. Read more: The best quirky bag charms to Jane Birkin-fy your bag Diversification of materials Above Chanel known for its tweed, recently acquired a 35 per cent stake in an Italian silk manufacturing company () Perhaps the most intriguing development has been the acceleration of material innovation and diversification. Faced with unpredictable costs for traditional luxury materials, brands have invested in alternatives. Since its launch in 2001, Stella McCartney has been committed to using sustainable materials in its products, refusing to use leather, fur, skins, feathers or animal glues. It continues to lead in this area, with garments made from planet-friendly alternatives such as grape-based leather substitutes in partnership with Veuve Clicquot. The vegan leather is manufactured from 80 per cent recycled materials. Chanel has increased its use of French-produced tweeds and Italian silks. In April 2025, after 50 years of working together with Italian silk manufacturer Mantero Setamarketing in Como, Italy, it acquired a 35 per cent stake in the company. Chanel president of fashion Bruno Pavlovsky said before the brand's Cruise 2025-26 show, 'I always say that Chanel is half French and half Italian.' Read more: Kicks by Kibo: The Hong Kong brand making sneakers using apple waste The Asian manufacturing renaissance While Western and European brands adapt, Asian manufacturing hubs have proven remarkably resilient. China's luxury goods production has evolved beyond simple contract manufacturing toward full-service partnerships that include design, materials sourcing and even marketing support. Vietnam has emerged as a particular beneficiary, with leather footwear production increasing by 31.8 per cent since 2025. Bangladesh, traditionally associated with fast fashion, has made surprising inroads into luxury accessories. It is actively promoting its leather, footwear, and leather goods sector internationally and is recognised as a competitive sourcing destination for global buyers. Read more: Ladies Who Lead: The fashion founders behind Jimmy Choo, Perfect Moment, Rejina Pyo, Saloni and Boyy share their advice for fledgling designers These countries have also strengthened regional trade relationships, creating alternative supply networks that reduce dependence on any single market. The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has facilitated smoother trade flows within Asia, allowing manufacturers to source materials regionally and maintain competitive pricing despite external tariff pressures. The rise of Asian luxury Above (Video: Shang Xia) Asian luxury brands themselves have turned trade tensions into competitive advantages. Chinese brands like Shang Xia (backed by Hermès) and Qeelin have emphasised their domestic heritage, appealing to both local pride and international curiosity about authentic Asian luxury. Japanese brands have been particularly strategic, leveraging their reputation for quality while maintaining manufacturing flexibility. Issey Miyake has expanded production capabilities in both Japan and selected Southeast Asian facilities, allowing the brand to serve different markets through optimal supply chain configurations. Read more: Chinese designer Yang Li is Shang Xia's new fashion director Strategic moves for luxury consumers Above Savvy luxury customers understand the industry shifts and are adjusting their purchasing decisions () For discerning buyers, understanding these industry shifts presents clear opportunities to maximise purchasing power while building more strategic collections. The most sophisticated consumers are already adjusting their approach to luxury acquisition. Savvy buyers are monitoring production cycles and tariff announcements to optimise purchase timing. Items manufactured before tariff implementations often remain at lower price points until inventory clears. Heritage pieces are also smart pieces to invest in. These items produced in the brands' traditional manufacturing bases are less susceptible to tariff-related price volatility. These pieces also tend to hold value better over time, making them superior long-term investments. As new luxury goods face pricing pressure from tariffs, pre-owned alternatives become comparatively more attractive, often offering items from periods when manufacturing costs were lower. Read more: The Tatler Guide to matching watches according to dress codes A new global fashion geography The long-term implications extend far beyond individual brand strategies. We're witnessing the emergence of a truly multipolar fashion industry, where production decisions are driven by sophisticated calculations that balance quality, cost, cultural authenticity and political stability. Smart luxury brands are treating this complexity as an opportunity rather than a burden. They're building supply chains that are not just efficient but also resilient, creative and aligned with evolving consumer values around transparency and sustainability. For investors and industry observers, the message is clear: the brands that will thrive in this new environment are those that view trade tensions not as obstacles to overcome, but as catalysts for innovation and differentiation. In an industry built on exclusivity and craftsmanship, the ability to tell compelling stories about provenance and production has become as valuable as the products themselves. The tariff era has fundamentally altered fashion's global calculus, but the industry's response suggests that adaptability remains its greatest luxury. Credits This article was created with the assistance of AI tools
Tatler Asia
27-05-2025
- Tatler Asia
Top 10 universities in Asia, according to the 2025 THE World University Rankings
Tsinghua University, China Peking University, China National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore The University of Tokyo, Japan Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore The University of Hong Kong (HKU), Hong Kong Fudan University, China The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong Zhejiang University, China Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), China 1. Tsinghua University, China Above Tsinghua University, China (Photo: N509FZ/Wikimedia Commons) Ranked 12th in the world, Tsinghua University is the top Asian university in the World University Rankings. Located in Beijing, Tsinghua University is considered one of China's most prestigious institutions, especially in engineering, technology, and science. Often dubbed 'China's MIT', it is known for academic excellence, impactful research, and deep industry ties. Notable alumni: Chinese President Xi Jinping, former Premier Zhu Rongji, former President Hu Jintao, businesswoman Zhang Zetian. Apple CEO Tim Cook is the chairman of Tsinghua's School of Economics and Management Advisory Board. Read more: The urgency of early sustainable thinking education for Generation Alpha 2. Peking University, China Above Peking University (Photo: Beijing University/Kent Wang via Wikimedia Commons) Also based in Beijing, Peking University (Beida) rivals Tsinghua in prestige, and is ranked just behind it, at 13th in the world. Renowned for its strength in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, it is also a cultural icon in China. Notable alumni: Former Premier Li Keqiang; Nobel Peace Prize laureate Liu Xiaobo; Nobel Prize for Medicine laureate Tu Youyou; Robin Li, founder of Chinese search engine Baidu; and Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand 3. National University of Singapore, Singapore Above University Hall, National University of Singapore (Photo: Commons) Singapore's flagship institution, NUS is a leading force in research and innovation across disciplines such as computer science, law, engineering, and business, with partnerships with industry and government driving cutting-edge developments in many areas. It is currently ranked 17th in the world. Notable alumni: Founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, Singapore's first female President Halimah Yacob, and former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong 4. The University of Tokyo, Japan Above The Clock Tower at the University of Tokyo (Photo: Guilhelm Vellut/ Wikimedia Commons) Japan's top university, The University of Tokyo, is ranked 28th in the World University Rankings. Known as UTokyo, it was founded in 1877 and has had a long history as Japan's leading institution of higher learning. It offers a broad spectrum of disciplines and is acclaimed for its rigorous academic standards, with multiple Nobel laureates among faculty and alumni. Notable alumni: Nobel-winning authors Yasunari Kawabata and Kenzaburo Oe, Empress Masako of Japan, Studio Ghibli co-founder Isao Takahata, and Kiichiro Toyoda, founder of Toyota 5. Nanyang Technological University, Singapore Above Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (Photo: Nanyang Technological University) Nanyang Technological University is renowned as one of the top two universities in Singapore. Currently ranked 30th in the world, NTU is notable for its rapid ascent in global rankings, with particular strengths in engineering, interdisciplinary research and sustainability. Notable alumni: Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan, entrepreneur Merry Riana, and Indonesian billionaire Dato' Sri Tahir, founder of Mayapada Group 6. The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Above The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Photo: HKU Heritage Fund) Ranked 35th in the world, Hong Kong's oldest university, HKU, boasts global recognition for its medical, legal, and humanities programmes. Its international faculty and student body reflect its cosmopolitan base. Notable alumni: Republic of China founder Sun Yat-sen, Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam and SARS researcher Dr. Guan Yi 7. Fudan University, China Above The Lee Shau Kee Library in Fudan University, China (Photo: Fudan University) Located in Shanghai, Fudan University is a member of China's elite C9 League, also known as the Chinese Ivy League. At number 36, it is respected for its strengths across a wide range of disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, science and medicine, as well as its substantial research output and continued international engagement. Notable alumni: Wang Huning, a distinguished politician and member of China's Politburo Standing Committee; People's Republic of China Vice President Han Zheng; Zhang Weiwei, and Guo Guangchang, director of the China Institute of Studies at Fudan University; and Guo Guangchang, chairman and co-founder of Fosun International 8. The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Above The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Photo: CUHK) The Chinese University of Hong Kong is the second oldest university after HKU, and is ranked at number 44 globally. It is renowned for its bilingual approach to education in English and Chinese. CUHK is recognised for its strong research output, particularly in medicine, business and the social sciences, as well as its multiculturalism, which embraces both Chinese and Western cultures, and its strong links with local and regional communities. Notable alumni: Physics Nobel laureate Sir Charles Kao, HKMA chief Norman Chan, HKTV founder Ricky Wong and former HKEx Chairman Sir Chung-kong Chow 9. Zhejiang University, China Above Zhejiang University, China Ranked 47th in the world, ZJU, in Hangzhou, is one of China's largest and most comprehensive universities in China. With an outstanding reputation in the fields of engineering and science and technology, it enjoys substantial research support and strong cooperation with the industry. Currently, more than 50 faculty members of ZJU are members of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE), which are leading consultative institutions in science and technology in the People's Republic of China. Notable alumni: Chinese Premier Li Qiang, DeepSeek AI founder Liang Wenfeng, BBK Electronics founder Duan Yongping and Pinduoduo founder Colin Huang 10. Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China Above Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China (Photo: Shanghai Jiao Tong University) Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) is another leading university in Shanghai, with a long history and a reputation for engineering, science, technology, medicine, and business. Ranked at number 52 in the world, SJTU is committed to continuously supporting important research, promoting internationalisation and global cooperation. Notable alumni: Former Chinese President Jiang Zemin, basketball star Yao Ming, table tennis legend Ma Long, and Lenovo CEO Yang Yuanqing
