DESARU, 25 February 2025 – The 47th High-Level Task Force on Economic Integration (HLTF-EI) Meeting, held in Desaru, Malaysia on 24-25 February, brought together senior economic officials to discuss ASEAN’s economic priorities against the backdrop of shifting global and regional dynamics. A key focus was on the global and regional economic outlook, particularly regarding the implications of rising geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions..
The meeting examined the impact of protectionist trade policies, which are expected to accelerate supply chain shifts, drive investment relocations, and reshape trade patterns in the region. Whilst these tariffs pose challenges to ASEAN exporters, they also present opportunities for ASEAN to position itself as a preferred alternative manufacturing and sourcing hub for global companies seeking to diversify their supply chains.
In addition, the meeting assessed progress on the AEC Blueprint 2025 and discussed the end-term review of ASEAN’s economic integration efforts to ensure that regional initiatives remain adaptive to external pressures. The meeting noted the substantive completion of the draft AEC Strategic Plan 2026–2030, a key document outlining future priorities for the AEC’s post-2025 agenda. The meeting emphasised the importance of effectively implementing the AEC Strategic Plan 2026–2030, ensuring the development of forward-looking activities and robust outcome indicators to measure progress toward the AEC’s future priorities.
Discussion also highlighted Malaysia’s Priority Economic Deliverables as ASEAN Chair, emphasising policies that bolster trade facilitation, investment attractiveness, and digital transformation. In line with Malaysia’s theme of its ASEAN Chairmanship this year, sustainability remains a key priority in ASEAN’s post-2025 economic agenda. ASEAN will move forward on its sustainability agenda by promoting inclusive and resilient economic policies and mobilising green financing that align with global sustainability commitments. Finally, good regulatory practices and refining ASEAN’s economic calendars were important topics of discussion during the meeting. The HLTF-EI’s recommendations from this meeting will be presented at the 31st ASEAN Economic Ministers’ (AEM) Retreat, ensuring ASEAN remains proactive in navigating global economic shifts and strengthening its role in the international trade landscape.