Australia, Japan, and a Middle Power Approach to Securing Prosperity in Global Disorder

In an age of great power rivalry, economic coercion, and rising protectionism, middle powers that depend on an open, rules-based multilateral economic order must navigate growing uncertainty in their pursuit of economic security and prosperity. This article argues that rather than retreating into protectionism or narrowly pursuing self-sufficiency in the name of economic security, middle powers must reinforce economic openness, strengthen multilateral rules, and build regional coalitions to shape a more stable economic order. The strategic economic policy choices of Australia and Japan are the focus of this article given their key roles as US allies in a highly interdependent region with China as their largest trading partner.The weakening of the World Trade Organization (WTO), escalating instances of US and Chinese trade coercion, and the shift towards discriminatory economic policies threatens the global economic environment. But Australia and Japan’s responses have been focused mostly on domestic measures and risk over-securitizing economic policy at the expense of open and stable global markets. While managing risks is necessary, these measures should not come at the cost of undermining the very system that has underpinned their prosperity.This article assesses the economic security strategies of Australia and Japan and examines how they can leverage their diplomatic and economic influence to defend open trade, counter economic fragmentation, and mobilize like-minded regional partners. A strong Australia-Japan partnership can be an anchor for regional cooperation, ensuring that prosperity and security remain complementary rather than competing goals in the Asia-Pacific and beyond.