New strategic programme expands cooperation into digital transformation, energy, technology, transport and other emerging areas
ASEAN and Russia have adopted the ASEAN-Russia Strategic Programme on Trade and Investment Cooperation 2026-2035, providing a framework for deeper cooperation in trade, investment and emerging areas of mutual interest.
The programme covers digital transformation, science, technology and innovation, transport and mobility, agriculture, energy and minerals, sustainable development and tourism. It is intended to provide an avenue for ASEAN-Russia economic cooperation over the next decade.
ASEAN-EAEU economic ties provide foundation
Economic cooperation between ASEAN and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) has developed gradually since ASEAN launched the ASEAN Economic Community.
In 2016, ASEAN welcomed Russia's proposal for a joint feasibility study on a possible ASEAN-EAEU free trade agreement. The two sides subsequently focused on building confidence through policy dialogue and cooperation activities before moving toward a feasibility study.
A Memorandum on Economic Cooperation between ASEAN and the EAEU was signed in Singapore on November 14, 2018. The agreement established a foundation for closer economic ties, covering areas including customs and trade facilitation, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical regulations, e-commerce, trade in services and investment, and support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.
A cooperation programme for 2019-2020 was subsequently endorsed, covering high-level dialogue, business engagement, joint events and exchanges among experts.
The programme was later extended through 2025. One of its major activities was the ASEAN-EAEU Days held at the ASEAN headquarters in Jakarta in November 2023, which included economic roundtables and activities showcasing cooperation between the two regions.
Cooperation expands under 2026-2030 programme
To maintain momentum, ASEAN and the Eurasian Economic Commission developed a new Programme of Cooperation for 2026-2030.
The programme covers trade, customs and trade facilitation, competition policy, financial markets, digital transformation, transport, energy, the blue economy and agriculture.
The new ASEAN-Russia strategic programme and the ASEAN-EEC cooperation programme indicate a broader effort to strengthen economic links between Southeast Asia and the Eurasian region, while expanding cooperation into technology, energy, digitalisation and sustainable development.
Source: Indonesia Business Post
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<p>Time: November 2025<br /> By: WTO and International Trade Group, Legal Department – VCCI</p>
