The future with Digital Transformation in Southeast Asia

There are several opportunities for digitalization in the region, and the outcomes of the development will benefit all the countries, irrespective of their stage in digital transformation.

FREMONT, CA: ASEAN economic and free trade bloc has agreed to develop a digital trade pact, the digital trade forum, incorporation with private sector entities. The pact will underscore the importance of trust among stakeholders in southeast Asia. The next five years are a crucial period for the transformation of ASEAN towards a sustainable, inclusive, and digital economic community. The transformation will require commitment from ASEAN member states and effective coordination among sectoral bodies of the group, greater participation of relevant stakeholders, including private sector entities. Excellent in digital transformation and collaboration within the region’s digital community will unlock potential for economic growth, enabling Southeast Asia to rise to the occasion, foster innovation in the development of infrastructure, and cultivate digital skills.

In the aftermath of the covid-19 pandemic, there has been a shift in focus of anti-globalization forces from trade liberalization to data, labor, and capital mobility. There are several opportunities for digitalization in the region, and the outcomes of the development will benefit all the countries, irrespective of their stage in digital transformation. Digitalization of supply chains and paperless trade is expected to increase business resilience and efficiency while also cost-effective and sustainable. Modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, 5G, and digital infrastructure are also gaining instruction in southeast Asia. Technologists are reiterating the importance of investing in digital infrastructure gen for industrial development. In addition, mutual trust and recognition of data governance are also critical for driving digital trade. Cyber security and data management must also be on the agenda of the stakeholders while formulating policies. The regional comprehensive economic partnership (RCEP) is a crucial building block for regional trades in Southeast Asia, and Digitalisation is expected to improve the following of these agreements. The region must also implement and develop regulatory bodies to facilitate seamless trade and economy while leading the digital era based on cooperation and better governance.