Some state agencies are still ‘primarily controlled by the government’, while Indonesia’s score on the global corruption index is below that of OECD nations
According to the Department of Trade Negotiations’ statistics for the first three months of 2024 (from January to March), Thailand’s exports of products in the heat relief categories to Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners increased by 13%, compared with the same period last year, to US$1,269 million, making it ASEAN’s largest exporter of heat relief products. Thailand also ranked among the world’s top ten heat relief product exporters in various categories, such as the world’s third for air conditioners and components, the fourth for ice cream, and the sixth for canned and processed fruits.
President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Wednesday highlighted two significant economic corridors between the Philippines and Brunei as these help in the development of small and medium enterprises.
Indonesia is increasing its global influence through its foreign aid program, Indonesian AID. Indonesian AID provides technical assistance in the Pacific region, driven by Indonesia's strong economic performance and the need to navigate global challenges. It also aligns with the Indonesian government's financial reforms and offers a more cohesive approach to foreign assistance. To maximise its impact, Indonesian AID should focus on developing a robust branding strategy, prudent financial management and a meticulous fund distribution approach.
Malaysia on Tuesday laid out plans to develop the country as a global chip hub, including allocating at least $5.3 billion in fiscal support and training 60,000 engineers.
Despite becoming the most prosperous Asia Pacific country in per capita terms, Singapore faces challenges from global tensions, inequality and an over-reliance on traditional success sectors. To sustain growth, officials are emphasising meritocracy and diversity in talent, promoting upskilling and reforming education to further creativity and innovation. The government is also introducing visa restrictions for foreign white-collar workers and supporting economic diversification towards 'advanced' industries such as pharmaceuticals and agritech.
The Ministry of Commerce (MoC) yesterday inked an agreement with Pakistan to establish a joint committee aimed at elevating trade cooperation. It is also preparing another Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to be signed with Bangladesh to promote the trade of rice.
Over the years, Vietnam has shown that it is a responsible member and fully implementing its obligation in ASEAN. Thereby, enhancing Vietnam Customs’s position and role as a pillar member agency of ASEAN economic community. At the same time, promoting its pioneering role in the ASEAN region, Vietnam Customs has made efforts to demonstrate and make its mark through 6 outstanding results.
<p>Time: November 2025<br /> By: WTO and International Trade Group, Legal Department – VCCI</p>
