ASEAN was founded half a century ago in 1967 by the five Southeast Asian nations of Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. This was during the polarized atmosphere of the Cold War, and the alliance aimed to promote stability in the region. Over time, the group expanded to include its current 10 members.
ASEAN leads in the Intelligent Age with innovation, sustainability and regional stability, driving digital growth, climate action and global collaboration.
ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) The Association of Southeast Asian Nations is an intergovernmental organization composed of Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam. It was established in 1967 and its secretariat is based in Jakarta, Indonesia.
ASEAN is leveraging global uncertainty into strategic advantage. In a time of global fragmentation, ASEAN stands out as a rare economic bright spot. What we are seeing in ASEAN is a shift away from ideological alignment towards pragmatic, interest-based engagement.
By 2030, ASEAN's digital economy is expected to more than double to $560 billion. But obstacles in the region remain, such as funding for small businesses.
ASEAN's advantages, ranging from a large, young market to an embrace of the digital economy, offers a conducive environment to investors - leaders said at Davos 2025.
ASEAN is on track to emerge as a global centre of growth. To achieve its vast economic potential, ASEAN is leveraging its demographic strength and promoting inclusivity as a catalyst for innovation. To ensure regional integration, ASEAN’s innovation efforts are focused on sustainable development, enhancing trade facilitation, and cross-ASEAN talent exchange.
The resilience of ASEAN depends on investing in innovation, digital transformation and advanced manufacturing, as well as deepening regional cooperation.