Japan and ASEAN agree to study an expansion of their economic partnership agreement, while seeking stronger cooperation in energy security, artificial intelligence, supply chains and measures to address global economic uncertainties.
Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) agree to commission a study on expanding their economic partnership agreement as both sides seek to deepen commercial ties and strengthen cooperation in emerging strategic areas. The decision is reached at a Japan-ASEAN meeting in Manila on September 20, with Japanese Trade Minister Ryosei Akazawa announcing the initiative following the discussions.
The proposed study is intended to examine ways to further develop the economic relationship between Japan and the 10 ASEAN member states. Participants express interest in strengthening cooperation in areas including energy security, artificial intelligence and supply chains, reflecting growing attention to economic resilience and technological development.
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Akazawa says Japan hopes to advance discussions and further reinforce the economic relationship established between the two sides. The initiative comes as businesses and governments across Asia face increasing uncertainty surrounding international trade, geopolitical tensions and disruptions to critical supply routes.
Philippine Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque, who participates in the meeting, highlights the growing importance of Japan-ASEAN cooperation amid changes in the global economic environment. The meeting provides an opportunity for both sides to discuss practical measures for maintaining stable trade and investment flows while expanding cooperation into new sectors.
Energy security emerges as an important area of discussion. Japan and ASEAN countries rely significantly on oil supplies from the Middle East and are seeking ways to diversify energy sources and strengthen resilience against disruptions. The participants also address risks affecting key energy transportation routes.
A joint statement adopted during the meeting addresses geopolitical tensions and risks to major energy supply routes. Japan and ASEAN also commit to avoiding unilateral measures that could contribute to further instability in the global economy, underscoring the importance of predictable trade and economic relations.
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The focus on artificial intelligence and supply chains adds a technology and industrial dimension to the partnership. Cooperation in these areas can support efforts to improve production networks, digital capabilities and economic resilience across the region.
The planned study therefore provides a framework for examining how the Japan-ASEAN economic partnership can evolve in response to changing trade, technology and energy conditions. The initiative also reinforces the broader economic relationship between Japan and Southeast Asia as both sides seek greater stability and closer cooperation.