The ASEAN digital economy framework agreement: uniting or dividing?

• Main Authors: Ibrahim Kholilul Rohman, Gunawan, Kleovan Nathanael, Johanes, Angelique
• Other Authors: S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies
• Format: Commentary
• Language: English
• Published: 2024
• Subjects: Social Sciences; Country and region studies; Technology and future issues
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/175776
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

The ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement launched in September 2023 aims to unite ASEAN nations in fostering digital cooperation and adding up to US$2 trillion to its digital economy by 2030. Among the prerequisites, progress in digital payments and e-wallet adoption is needed and notable in some countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Yet, infrastructure disparities, varying internet access, and digital readiness in micro, small and medium enterprises pose challenges. Efforts to harmonise definitions, bridge digital gaps, and ensure policy alignment are crucial to unlocking ASEAN’s digital potential.