ASEAN Economic Ministers Retreat Endorses Philippine Priority Economic Agenda
MANILA — The ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Retreat has formally endorsed the Philippines’ priority economic deliverables, reinforcing the country’s leadership role in shaping the region’s economic direction under its ASEAN chairship, according to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary and AEM Chair Ma. Cristina Roque.
Speaking during a briefing in Taguig City recently, Roque said the retreat approved key Philippine-led initiatives aimed at boosting ASEAN’s competitiveness, investment attractiveness, and long-term economic resilience.
“The retreat endorsed the Philippines’ priority economic deliverables, covering semiconductors, critical minerals, creative industries, and AI (artificial intelligence), and this is aimed at strengthening ASEAN’s investment appeal and regional resilience,” Roque said.
She added that these focus areas form the backbone of industrial growth across the region. “So this is the foundation for manufacturing and industrial development.”
As ASEAN Chair, the Philippines is able to steer the regional agenda by setting priorities, advancing initiatives aligned with national interests, and elevating its role in engagements with ASEAN partners and external stakeholders. Officials said this positioning creates opportunities to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, and economic development across Southeast Asia.
The Philippine Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs) span a wide range of sectors, including energy, agriculture, strategic trade management, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and artificial intelligence, while also supporting ASEAN’s push toward a sustainable and green economy.
“We really were able to discuss a lot of items that are quiet, that are relevant to ASEAN,” Roque said, referring to in-depth discussions during the retreat.
The economic ministers also engaged with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ABAC), welcoming its theme, Prosperity for All, which underscores the importance of inclusive growth and public-private collaboration.
“The ministers consulted with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, which was the ABAC, and we welcomed its theme, Prosperity for All, emphasizing that ASEAN initiatives must deliver tangible benefits for people and businesses, meaning the private sector and government should work together hand in hand to make sure that we get the programs or we get the deliverables done,” Roque said.
In addition to long-term growth initiatives, Roque said the ministers also exchanged views on emerging global risks, including how ASEAN economies can respond to the ongoing Middle East conflict and mitigate its potential impact on regional economic stability.
The discussions, she noted, highlighted the importance of coordination and adaptability as ASEAN navigates an increasingly complex global environment.
via Industry Daily Observer
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