ASEAN SME NEWS

 
Latest ASEAN news

Scaling-up investments to accelerate transition to carbon-free energy in APEC

Governments and private sector players of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member-economies must scale up investments to speed up the transition to carbon-free energy, as carbon emissions in the region are still growing despite the rise in the use of clean energy.  

“Energy demand is increasing faster than renewables can replace fossil fuels. Power generation from carbon-emitting sources is still expanding, which means emissions will keep rising unless the transition to carbon-free energy is accelerated at an even greater pace,” according to a news alert from APEC.

To hasten the shift to carbon-free energy as the world faces rising global temperatures and extreme weather events, it underscored the need for investments in energy storage, transmission infrastructure, and emerging clean energy technologies.

This, as building solar farms, wind farms, and energy storage systems (ESS) requires significant investment while more innovation is needed to improve energy storage and carbon capture.

“From the private sector perspective, companies are struggling to balance the high costs of transitioning to carbon-free energy while remaining competitive in the market,” the news alert said.

“For example, as commercialization of new technologies requires utilizing additional safety technology, suppliers are finding it difficult to predict the demand for CFE (carbon-free energy) and to reflect the increased cost of safety in product prices,” it added.    

CFE technologies, which refer to energy sources that do not produce or remove carbon emissions during generation, include nuclear energy, renewable energy, and clean and low-carbon hydrogen and ammonia, ESS and carbon capture and storage.

This diverse mix of technologies help to stabilize power supply and reduce dependence on carbon-intensive alternatives.

Aside from scaling up investments, experts encourage APEC economies to enhance regional cooperation, support technology innovation, and strengthen public-private partnerships.

“Standardized certification systems and aligned policies on carbon-free energy are necessary for cross-border energy trade,” the news alert said. “Continued research and development in carbon capture, hydrogen fuel, and small modular nuclear reactors will play a vital role.”

Engaging businesses and industries in the clean energy transition will drive faster adoption and economic benefits, it added.

PHILEXPORT News and Features
April 16, 2025
Photo: Canva

Cambodian, Malaysian travellers can now make payments via QR scan

After six months of launching the first phase, the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) and the Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) yesterday officially launched the second phase of their cross-border payment linkage, allowing travellers to make payments by scanning QR codes using the Bakong and DuitNow applications.

The ‘Cross-border QR Payment Linkage between Malaysia and Cambodia – Phase 2’ was presided over by Chea Serey, Governor of NBC, and Dato’ Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour, Governor of BNM, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Addressing the ceremony, the BNM Governor said, “Greater financial integration within ASEAN is now becoming more of a reality. In line with Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship, we are pleased to advance the vision of enhanced payment connectivity within the region through the latest phase of this QR payment linkage.”

Ghaffour added that many ASEAN small businesses and individuals are set to reap the benefits of instant cross-border QR payments. We will continue to widen our reach with regional and international partners to foster an inclusive and safe payment connectivity network.

Serey highlighted that this advancement not only simplifies cross-border payment transactions but also unlocks immense potential for mutual benefits.

Firstly, it enhances the tourism sector by providing Malaysian travelers with seamless payment options while visiting Cambodia.

Secondly, promote financial inclusion by connecting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and individuals to a wider economic network.

Thirdly, it also contributes to regional integration by furthering ASEAN’s vision of a digitally interconnected community.

For full article, please read here
Source: Khmer Times 

Programs reshaping behavior pushed to cut plastic consumption in ASEAN

The Philippines and its peers in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) need to design and implement more initiatives that will shift people’s behavior toward reducing plastic consumption as global plastic pollution reaches alarming levels, according to a new report from the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA).

The document entitled “ASEAN Conference on Combating Plastic Pollution 2024” noted how ASEAN member states have reaffirmed their commitment to reduce plastic pollution in the region by endorsing the ASEAN Declaration on Plastic Circularity in October 2024.

This landmark document emphasizes a full life-cycle approach to addressing plastic pollution and advocates for comprehensive interventions such as circular product design, reuse systems, and environmentally sound plastic waste management.

According to the ERIA paper, since plastic pollution is not only a material issue but a behavioral issue as well, approaches targeting behavior may be used with the aim to influence people to reduce their single-use plastic (SUP) consumption in exchange for behaviors that promote a sustainable and circular use of plastics.

“The hope is that the once the desired behaviour is achieved, it can be sustained beyond the duration of the behavioural change initiative,” said the report released this month.

It recommends several recommended strategies to achieve informed behavioral change, including the following:
 
  • Understand the context. When designing a behavioral change initiative, it is important to understand the socioeconomic, environmental, and cultural contexts of the target community to ensure that the initiative is appropriate and effective in encouraging the desired behavior.
  • Combine different behavioral levers, including a mix of traditional and modern interventions, to inculcate the desired behavior. Traditional behavior change levers can include implementing a ban on plastic bags and imposing a fee for plastic shopping bags in supermarkets, while new intervention levers can cover not automatically providing plastic straws in restaurants and promoting bringing tumblers and water bottles as a cool trend instead of using SUP cups and bottles.
  • Partner with local stakeholders. Community stakeholders should be involved throughout the entire initiative. Furthermore, working with local stakeholders also helps with understanding the context, identifying what is important and feasible for the communities, as well as creating a sense of ownership within the communities.
  • Involve local champions. Religious leaders, government officials, the youth and other local champions can help build a stronger relationship within the community and further encourage the adoption of the desired behavior past the period of the behavioral change initiative.
  • Integrate the desired behavior into local rules, regulations, or legislation. This can be one of the levers of the behavioral change intervention which can help sustain the desired behavior beyond the period of the initiative, hopefully creating a longer-lasting impact in the communities.
  • Utilize multiple indicators to measure the impacts of the initiatives. This helps to create a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the extent of the behavior change, which can inform future initiatives.
  • Pay attention to the unexpected behaviors. Instances when people do not make decisions as expected should be taken note of and the insights could be incorporated in redesigning existing or designing new behavioral change interventions.
According to the report, demand for materials that improve the quality of life such as plastics continues to increase as the global economy expands. More than 460 million metric tonnes (MMT) of plastics are produced each year, with an estimated 20 MMT of plastic litter polluting ecosystems and posing detrimental threats to biodiversity, public health, livelihoods and economies.

Alarmingly, these figures are projected to double by 2040, which underscores the urgent need for transformative actions to reduce plastic pollution, ERIA said. 

PHILEXPORT News and Features
March 21, 2025
Photo: Canva

Higher tariffs can create opportunities for some developing countries: report

Higher tariffs are expected to have significant economic costs but these may also create opportunities for some developing countries as major trading partners realign their supply chains and forge new trade relationships, according to the United Nations flagship report.

The World Economic Situation and Prospects: March 2025 Briefing said a breakdown by product category provides insight into which countries may benefit from supplying substitutes for tariff-affected goods should United States tariffs continue to target bilateral trade deficits.

It said among high-tech products, China remains a major supplier of electronics and machinery to the US, while the European Union remains a key source of pharmaceutical and machinery imports.

Citing earlier study, the UN report said several East Asian economies, such as Malaysia and Singapore, are emerging as specialized component producers in consumer electronics.   

However, outside of East Asia and Mexico, most developing countries lack the industrial capacity and supply chain integration needed to replace major high-tech suppliers, it said.

“By contrast, a realignment of supply chains in more labor-intensive low- and mid-tech industries could create new opportunities for a broader set of developing countries. East Asia is well-positioned to benefit, but other regions could also gain if the United States shifts away from its main trading partners China, Canada, Mexico, and the European Union,” it added.

The report said Vietnam and Indonesia could emerge as alternative suppliers of toys to the United States which remains heavily dependent on China, while other countries have strengthened their market positions in apparel.    

PHILEXPORT News and Features
March 21, 2025
Photo: Canva

Lao Digital Week 2025

On Wednesday, the Ministry of Technology and Communications launched Lao Digital Week 2025, which will take place from April 2-6 at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane. Taking the theme “Building Resilience and Sustainable Digital Infrastructure for Laos”, the event aims to foster digital transformation, promote a digital economy, and advance technological innovation across all sectors. The launch was attended by President Thongloun Sisoulith and Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society Prasert Chantararuangthong. Attendees included officials from ministries and other government bodies, representatives of international organizations and businesses, and members of the public. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of Technology and Communications, Prof Dr Boviengkham Vongdara said this year’s Lao Digital Week also commemorates three important national events, namely the 70th anniversary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Lao PDR, and the 105th anniversary of the birth of President Kaysone Phomvihane.
“In an era where technology is rapidly driving our world, digital transformation is not an option but a critical necessity for the socio-economic development of Laos,” he added.
The government has defined a national digital transformation strategy based on three main pillars: digital government, digital economy, and digital society.
Advances in digitalization will be pursued through the 20-year national digital economy development vision (2021-2040) and the 10-year national digital economy development strategy (2021-2030), Mr Boviengkham said.
Lao Digital Week serves as a platform to showcase and select outstanding Lao ICT and digital products for international competitions, such as the ASEAN ICT Award 2025. read

cr Vientiane Times
(Latest Update April 32025)

Cambodia’s First Infrastructure Bond by SchneiTec Raises $50M

Solar power developer SchneiTec Dynamic Co Ltd, which operates a 60 megawatt solar project in Kampong Chhnang, has issued a $50 million sustainable bond to fund the expansion of its infrastructure.

 

Touted as the first project bond in Cambodia, the 15-year tenured bond with an 180-day average compounded secured overnight financing rate (SOFR) will be listed on Cambodia Securities Exchange on April 10.

 

The proceeds will be used by SchneiTec Dynamic and SchneiTec Group to accelerate solar energy capacity expansion, supporting Cambodia’s transition toward energy independence and cleaner energy sources, the bond’s sole manager Yuanta Securities (Cambodia) Plc said in a statement yesterday.

 

The investment-grade bond, consisting of two-tranches - $35 million guaranteed by the Credit Guarantee and Investment Facility (coupon rate of SOFR +1.8 percent and 1.6 percent) and $15 million unguaranteed (SOFR plus average and three percent) - is considered a “landmark transaction” as it sets a new benchmark for sustainable financing in the Cambodian bond market.

 

Global investors, including life insurance companies, an overseas export credit agency, major international commercial banks, and a prominent local bank invested in the bond, Yuanta Securities said.

 

The diverse investor base reveals a growing confidence in Cambodia’s renewable energy sector, reflecting the country's potential for sustainable development, as well as the ability for such projects to raise funds via bonds beyond traditional banking methods.

 

"This project bond is more than just a financial instrument – it marks a significant milestone for both Cambodia’s bond market and the renewable energy sector," said Han Kyung Tae, CEO of Yuanta Securities.

For full article, please read here


Source: Kiri Post 

Thailand eyes EU free trade deal by year end amid US tariff risk

Thailand aims to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) by the end of this year to strengthen economic stability amid risks of U.S. tariffs.

Key Points:
  • Negotiations between Thailand and the EU resumed in 2023 after being suspended following the 2014 coup.
  • The EU is Thailand’s fourth-largest trading partner.
  • The FTA is expected to boost Thailand’s economic resilience and enhance global competitiveness.
  • Exports account for approximately 60% of Thailand’s GDP.
Additionally, Thai business groups have urged the prime minister to negotiate with the U.S. and consider lowering tariffs on U.S. imports to mitigate potential trade risks. Thailand’s push to finalize the FTA with the EU reflects its efforts to strengthen economic security and reduce dependence on uncertain U.S. trade policies.

Read more: Click! 

Transport Ministry to upgrade Ranong Port after 200% import-export surge

The Transport Ministry has planned to improve facilities and services in Ranong Port after witnessing a 200% surge in import-export volumes. This plan meets the government’s policy to promote the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) and enhance Thai logistics to meet international standards, said Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri.

Ranong Port which is under the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT)’s supervision, has been instructed to expand container yard areas and upgrade facilities for improved shipping services to handle an increase in shipments. This is another crucial step for Ranong Port to enhance its logistics services, making them more efficient and positioning the port for further growth.

According to PAT, Ranong Port has seen an increase in imports and exports since January 2024, particularly in animal feed maize imports and cement exports. “The growth of Ranong Port reflects the expansion of the economy and the logistics industry that is linked to neighbouring countries, especially Myanmar, which is a major market for Thai exports,” said PAT director Kriengkrai Chaisiriwongsuk. Ranong Port currently operates two piers: a multi-purpose pier capable of accommodating cargo ships with a weight of up to 500 gross tonnes, and a container pier designed to handle vessels weighing up to 12,000 deadweight tonnes.

“The facility has the potential to become a maritime commercial hub on the Andaman coast,” he added.

Read more: Click!

Comprehensive Analysis: The Influence of Chinese Investment on Thailand

Research suggests Chinese investments in Thailand have grown significantly, reaching 159.39 billion baht (US$4.58 billion) in 2023, boosting economic growth. It seems likely that these investments create jobs and enhance trade, particularly in electronics and automotive sectors, but may increase property prices, affecting housing affordability.

The evidence leans toward positive environmental impacts due to Thailand’s strong ESG regulations, though specific projects may raise concerns. Chinese investments appear to strengthen Thailand-China political ties, with potential strategic implications, though some debate exists over influence.

By analyzing historical data, current patterns, and future projections, this study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the bilateral economic relationship between China and Thailand. The report will explore the motivations behind Chinese investments, assess their effects on Thailand’s economic growth and competitiveness, and evaluate the challenges and opportunities arising from this partnership. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for policymakers, investors, and researchers seeking insights into the changing nature of Southeast Asian economies and China’s expanding global influence.

Read more: Click! 

Vietnam pledges continued contribution to ASEAN Community

Vietnam has always valued and contributed its utmost to ASEAN’s development over the past 30 years in pursuit of the bloc’s overarching goals, Party General Secretary To Lam said, adding that drawing from its own experiences, Vietnam will continue its contributions to the ASEAN Community’s development.
General Secretary Lam had a working session with ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn and the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN during the Vietnamese Party leader’s historic visit to the Secretariat of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Monday in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Agreeing with the key directions outlined by Kao Kim Hourn, Mr. Lam emphasized that ASEAN must remain a united and cohesive bloc. Only through unity can ASEAN overcome challenges in today’s complex global landscape. He also stressed that bilateral cooperation among ASEAN member states must serve the broader development and combined strength of the bloc.
The ASEAN chief called Mr. Lam visit, the first by a general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam to the ASEAN Secretariat, a historic milestone. He said the visit underscores ASEAN’s importance in Vietnam’s foreign policy, particularly as 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of Vietnam’s accession to ASEAN and the 10th anniversary of the ASEAN Community.
Kao Kim Hourn praised Vietnam’s important contributions to ASEAN and the ASEAN Community and expressed hope that Vietnam will continue to play a leading role in the bloc.
Following the official welcome ceremony, General Secretary To Lam planted a commemorative tree in the Secretariat’s compound and presented a painting to be displayed in the ASEAN Secretariat’s traditional exhibition room. This artwork is Vietnam’s seventh contribution among a total of 142 pieces gifted by leaders of ASEAN member states and their partners.
Source : VOV
Photo : VOV News

Thailand plan would allow polluters to offset 15% of emissions

The country has a target to achieve net zero emissions by 2065. THAILAND is considering proposals to allow businesses to offset as much as 15 per cent of their greenhouse gas pollution with carbon credits in a planned emissions trading system.

The strategy is intended to help stimulate development of the nation’s voluntary carbon market, said Suraphon Buphakosum, vice-president and head of the sustainability service development at the Stock Exchange of Thailand, which is involved in the market’s development. “Thailand wants to support and promote the country’s voluntary carbon market, especially for forestry projects,” Buphakosum said on Tuesday (Mar 4). “While it’s still subject to government approval, the scheme will only allow credits from nature-based projects.”

Read more: Click! 

Ndpx launches tarus, Brunei’s first instant fund transfer across platforms

National Digital Payment Network (ndpx) today launched tarus, enabling Brunei’s first instant fund transfers across participating banks and e-wallets.

Five platforms have on boarded onto tarus: BEEP Solutions, BIBD At-Tamwil’s Olive, MyDST, TAIBVX, and Progresif’s Ding!.

Users of these applications who have linked their bank accounts, cards, or other forms of credit can now send and receive money across these platforms by entering phone numbers associated with their accounts.

In a press statement, ndpx said Baiduri, BIBD, and ThreeG Media’s Pocket are expected to join in the next phase.

Tarus is the product name of Brunei’s first instant digital payment hub, operating as a back-end infrastructure for instant transfers between participating banks and e-wallets.

Users access tarus through their respective banks and e-wallet providers. The tarus option will appear as an inter-platform transfer option within participating providers.

“Currently, most users in Brunei transfer money within the same bank or e-wallet. While interbank transfers are possible, they primarily rely on systems like the Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) System, which is designed for large-value payments,” said ndpx in their announcement.


Source: Biz Brunei

Read the full article here