ASEAN pushes supply chain resilience amidst Middle East risks

Ministers also advanced digital and green economy initiatives.

ASEAN ministers reaffirmed their commitment to open trade and resilient supply chains as the region assesses the economic impact of the Middle East situation.

The discussions took place during the 27th ASEAN Economic Community Council Meeting held on 7 May in Cebu, Philippines. Singapore was represented by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong.

Ministers explored steps to expedite the entry into force of the Upgraded ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement within the year, where possible.

This would allow ASEAN member states to implement relevant cooperation and crisis-related commitments amid the ongoing crisis.

They also reaffirmed that the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement remains on track for full conclusion and signing this year.

The agreement is expected to support trusted cross-border data flows, end-to-end digital trade, protection of proprietary information, and regional expansion for digital businesses, especially MSMEs.

ASEAN also advanced green economy priorities, including plans to commission a feasibility study for a possible rules-based ASEAN Green Economy Framework Agreement.

Ministers also discussed the ASEAN Power Grid and urged faster development of a framework on submarine power cables, which are important for energy imports.

Gan said Singapore is working with ASEAN partners to champion resilient supply chains whilst growing the digital and green economies.

ASEAN remains a key economic partner for Singapore. MTI said the region’s GDP grew 4.9% in 2025, above global growth of 3.4%, and is expected to expand 4.4% in 2026.