ASEAN ministers reviewed trade agreements and facilitation measures to support regional competitiveness.
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn attended the Joint Meeting of the 58th ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) and 40th ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) Council Meeting in Manila, the Philippines, on 21 September 2026. The meeting reviewed the implementation of the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) and preparations for the early entry into force of the Second Protocol to Amend the ATIGA, known as the Upgraded ATIGA.
The meeting brought together ASEAN Economic Ministers to discuss trade and economic measures supporting ASEAN’s role as a single market and production base. Discussions focused on the implementation of existing regional trade arrangements and measures intended to facilitate the movement of goods within ASEAN.
The ministers discussed the current implementation of ATIGA, as well as preparatory work for the early entry into force of the Upgraded ATIGA. The Second Protocol to Amend the ATIGA is intended to provide the updated framework for ASEAN trade in goods as the region continues to develop its economic integration arrangements.
Trade facilitation was also among the key areas discussed during the meeting. Ministers considered the expansion of the ASEAN Authorised Economic Operator Mutual Recognition Arrangement (AAMRA), which supports cooperation in customs procedures among participating ASEAN member states.
The meeting also discussed the enhanced ASEAN Customs Transit System (ACTS), another trade facilitation mechanism aimed at supporting the movement of goods within the region.
The discussions addressed measures to reinforce ASEAN as a single market and production base while maintaining the region’s competitiveness and resilience in the global economy.
Dr. Kao’s participation in the Joint AEM and AFTA Council Meeting reflected the role of the ASEAN Secretariat in supporting the implementation of regional economic agreements and facilitating coordination among ASEAN Member States on trade and economic integration matters.
The meeting in Manila was held as ASEAN continued work on trade facilitation, the implementation of ATIGA and preparations for the entry into force of the Upgraded ATIGA.
Source: ASEAN
