ASEAN Must Increase Intra-Regional Trade, Says Malaysian Minister

ASEAN countries must significantly boost their intra-regional trade, which remains below 25 percent, to fully realize their potential as one of the world's largest economic blocs. Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Malaysia's Foreign Minister, stressed the importance of strengthening trade among member nations, citing projections that ASEAN could become the fourth-largest economy globally by 2030.

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We want to see intra-ASEAN trade increased because, as of today, trade between ASEAN countries does not exceed 25 percent.

"We want to see intra-ASEAN trade increased because, as of today, trade between ASEAN countries does not exceed 25 percent," Mohamad stated at the 59th ASEAN Day celebration. He added that "many areas and much trade need to be improved among ASEAN countries."

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Many areas and many trade need to be improved among ASEAN countries.

The minister noted that ASEAN is increasingly focusing on economic integration, moving beyond purely political issues. He emphasized the need to leverage ASEAN's economic potential by enhancing trade relationships and implementing mechanisms that facilitate cross-border movement of goods. "We are looking for mechanisms that allow this trade to be increased by having what is called the free movement of goods between ASEAN countries and others," he explained.

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We are looking for mechanisms that allow this trade to be increased by having what is called the free movement of goods between ASEAN countries and others.

Mohamad also highlighted that increasing intra-ASEAN trade is vital for ensuring the benefits of economic integration are widely shared among member states. He referenced Malaysia's successful initiatives during its ASEAN chairmanship, which laid the groundwork for the region's economic agenda. The Philippines, as the current ASEAN Chair, is continuing these efforts based on the Kuala Lumpur Declaration and previous resolutions. Malaysia, designated as the permanent shepherd for the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, aims to prioritize trade as a fundamental pillar for strengthening ASEAN's economic integration.

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With Malaysia being entrusted as the permanent shepherd or permanent chairman of ASEAN Community Vision 2045, we want to see our foundation, which is trade, be improved and achieved together.