Thailand is accelerating its plan to become a regional semiconductor hub, attracting significant foreign investment such as a new US$1.4 billion complex from Infineon Technologies.
Bilateral trade between Vietnam and Malaysia experienced remarkable growth during the first eight months of 2026, reaching $15.28 billion - a 43.4 percent increase compared to the same period last year and approaching the 2025 total of $16.33 billion.
Sustainability Impact Dialogue panellists say region needs bankable projects and clearer rules
The official opening of China's Pinglu Canal is raising expectations of stronger logistics links between southwestern China and ASEAN. Inland cargo that previously had to detour through Guangdong can now reach the Beibu Gulf directly, potentially cutting the cost and time required to transport Chinese goods to Southeast Asia.
ASEAN’s emerging digital framework shows how regional payment systems, local currencies and common data standards could reshape cross-border trade while preserving national economic autonomy
The planned rollout of the ASEAN Customs Transit System (ACTS) along the Kalimantan Corridor from 2027 will deepen trade links between Indonesia and Malaysia.
Malaysia has called for a decisive shift from being merely halal-certified to becoming halal-competitive, as the country and ASEAN seek to capture greater opportunities in the global halal economy projected to reach USD5 trillion.
Malaysia and Singapore can collaborate to enhance business connectivity within Asean and boost intra-Asean trade by leveraging their strengths in supply chains, the digital economy, and key industries.
<p>Time: November 2025<br /> By: WTO and International Trade Group, Legal Department – VCCI</p>
