Thailand is spearheading efforts to finalize the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) before year-end, positioning the region as a prominent digital hub across the Asia-Pacific.

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced this week that Thailand, serving as chair of the ASEAN-DEFA Committee, will fast-track regional discussions to wrap up the landmark agreement within the coming months.

The initiative has gained strong backing from Singapore, with Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong pledging full support for the ambitious timeline. The two leaders discussed the framework during the recent 25th ASEAN Economic Community Council meeting in Kuala Lumpur.

Thailand plans to convene a special gathering of ASEAN Economic Ministers to build regional consensus around the key milestones needed to complete DEFA by December. Minister Pichai has already presented this proposal to Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Zafrul Aziz, who currently leads the ASEAN Economic Ministers Council.

Beyond the digital framework, bilateral opportunities are expanding between Thailand and Singapore. The city-state has signaled intentions to increase investments in Thailand across several strategic sectors, including clean energy, electronics, financial services, and digital enterprises. Thailand has reciprocated by encouraging Singapore to diversify its imports of premium Thai rice varieties.

The accelerated DEFA timeline reflects ASEAN's commitment to digital transformation and economic integration as member nations work to strengthen their collective position in the global digital economy.

ที่มา/Source: Thai PBS World