Member states endorse AEC Strategic Plan 2026–2030, reaffirming commitment to open trade, digital transformation, and sustainability.
On 25 May 2025, the 25th ASEAN Economic Community Council (AECC) Meeting convened in Kuala Lumpur, where ASEAN Member States endorsed the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Strategic Plan 2026–2030. This five-year roadmap represents the first phase of ASEAN’s broader Community Vision 2045, focused on deepening regional economic integration and global cooperation.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong represented Singapore at the meeting, held ahead of the 46th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. ASEAN reaffirmed its commitment to open, rules-based, open trade environment while strengthening connectivity, innovation, and sustainability in the region.
Among the key outcomes was the successful conclusion of negotiations on the upgraded ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), chaired by Singapore. The revised agreement aims to enhance intra-ASEAN trade flows and is scheduled to be signed during the 47th ASEAN Summit in October 2025.
Discussions also advanced the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), with a target for substantial conclusion by the end of 2025. The framework supports ASEAN’s transition to a digitally enabled economy. Progress was also made on the implementation of the Bandar Seri Begawan Roadmap on ASEAN Digital Transformation and initiatives for digital trade standards.
Other highlights included agreements on catalysing green finance, energy resilience, and developing a regional carbon market. ASEAN also endorsed a Joint Declaration on Economic Cooperation with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and welcomed strategic dialogue with CPTPP members. The formation of an ASEAN Geoeconomic Task Force was also welcomed, aimed at bolstering long-term competitiveness and resilience.
