Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have agreed to explore expanding their economic partnership agreement, emphasizing supply-chain resilience, energy security, and artificial intelligence. This decision was reached during a meeting of economic ministers held in Manila on September 20.
The initiative aims to modernize the existing agreement in light of escalating risks to global supply chains and the growing influence of AI in economic sectors. Both Japan and ASEAN are keen to address these challenges and seek ways to enhance the agreement to better suit the current global economic landscape.
In addition to the focus on AI and supply chains, the discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining stable energy supplies, particularly with disruptions affecting key routes in the Middle East. Japan reiterated its commitment to bolstering oil stockpiles in ASEAN countries to improve regional energy security.
The Japan-ASEAN economic partnership, which has been in effect since 2008, was previously expanded to include trade in services and investment. As of 2025, the two regions recorded $245.4 billion in merchandise trade, with Japanese investment in ASEAN reaching $9.5 billion. This robust economic relationship underscores the importance of continued cooperation amid increasing geopolitical tensions and global trade uncertainties.