A discussion of the cultural effects of economic and, by extension, human resource development in Southeast Asia looks at short- and long-term implications. It is suggested that in the short term, increased competition will affect distribution of wealth, which can promote materialism and corruption. The introduction of labor-saving technology may bring labor unrest and activism. Reliance on increased productivity to maintain competition will have a differential effect on workers, based on cultural attitudes toward change and deferral of rewards. In the longer term, increased productivity, competition, and wider distribution of wealth is likely to produce better responsiveness to local consumer demands. Larger multinational companies will respond with a more multicultural style of management, borrowing techniques and structures from varied sources. Headquarters in home countries and controlled decentralization abroad is foreseen. Globalization will be reflected in the kind and variety of products made. Competition will promote uncertainty within companies, requiring new attitudes toward management. It is also predicted that English will emerge as the primary medium of communication. A better-educated workforce will be required, implying high cost for countries in which human resource development has been neglected. Both government and industry must address the challenges brought by these trends. Contains four references. (MSE)