Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have embarked on a study to potentially expand their economic partnership agreement, focusing on enhancing supply-chain resilience, bolstering energy security, and integrating artificial intelligence into economic strategies. This decision was formalized during a meeting of economic ministers held in Manila on September 20.
The initiative aims to address the evolving risks impacting global supply chains and acknowledges the growing significance of artificial intelligence in economic sectors. Japan and ASEAN are also concentrating on strategies to ensure a stable energy supply, especially in light of current disruptions affecting key routes through the Middle East.
As part of efforts to improve regional energy security, Japan expressed its commitment to support the strengthening of oil stockpiles within ASEAN countries. The ministers underscored the necessity of closer economic cooperation amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and uncertainties surrounding global trade.
The economic partnership agreement between Japan and ASEAN, initially enacted in 2008, has evolved over the years, now encompassing trade in services and investment. In 2025, the bilateral merchandise trade between Japan and ASEAN reached $245.4 billion, with Japanese investments in the region totaling $9.5 billion.