Nonetheless, despite these signs of progress and growth, discussions about the sustainability of China’s influence, particularly in terms of economic competence, remain ongoing. Conversely, the USA maintains its position as one of the prominent superpowers, even as it faces substantial domestic challenges, including income inequality, a shrinking middle class, and a polarized political system. Notably, the USA invests heavily in its military, yet it faces increasing scrutiny regarding its role as a global superpower. These challenges raise questions about the sustainability of the USA.’s superpower status. In fact, some argue that it is more pertinent to question whether China’s supposed shift will occur before any potential change in the US role. The traditional division between emerging and developed economies is becoming less relevant. Many emerging economies are now growing faster than developed ones, making significant strides in poverty reduction and education. For instance, China has risen to become one of the world’s largest economies, with impressive progress in literacy and infrastructure. In contrast, the USA faces challenges such as healthcare costs and infrastructure. As countries like South Korea, Brazil, and Indonesia exhibit their own strengths and innovations, it becomes evident that a more inclusive approach to global economic governance is needed. A shift to regional groupings, similar to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), can foster economic and technological collaboration, offering fairer economic comparisons. In the 21st century, there is no need for a single economic superpower to dominate the global economy. By reevaluating global economic governance, a more equitable system can be established, where all nations have a voice and the opportunity to shape the global economy. Traditional measures like GDP and military spending, while valuable, are no longer sufficient benchmarks for progress. In this evolving landscape, inclusive measures such as literacy rates, life expectancy, and access to healthcare can provide a more accurate representation of a country’s well-being and progress. In the current dynamic global economic landscape, it is imperative to reassess our understanding of economic superpowers. The traditional criteria of GDP and military might are no longer sufficient to capture the multifaceted nature of today’s economic realities. We must transition to a more inclusive and nuanced perspective that encompasses a broader range of factors, including literacy rates, life expectancy, healthcare accessibility, and human capital development. This shift towards a comprehensive view not only acknowledges the unique strengths and innovations of each nation but also encourages cooperative regional alliances, such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), where countries can work together, celebrate diversity, and foster mutual support, ultimately leading to more equitable global economic governance. Embracing this approach is pivotal in shaping a 21st-century economic landscape characterized by inclusivity, equity, and collaborative progress.