Malaysia Urges Strengthening Intra-ASEAN Trade Amid Global Uncertainty

• 17 August 2025
• Uncategorized
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Malaysia is taking active steps to bolster economic ties within the ASEAN bloc, aiming to enhance intra-regional trade as a cornerstone for regional stability and growth. In an address last Thursday, Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan emphasized the importance of reducing reliance on traditional external trading partners, especially in the face of growing global uncertainty.

Despite the opportunities presented by ASEAN’s potential, current intra-bloc trade remains alarmingly low, accounting for less than 25% of total trade among member states. To address this, Malaysia has introduced a new framework designed to stimulate and enhance trade between ASEAN countries.

“Strengthening our economic framework is essential,” Mohamad stated. “We need to elevate ASEAN’s economic standing to match its political influence, particularly through initiatives like ASEAN Vision 2045.”

The minister highlighted that even a modest increase in intra-bloc trade to between 30% and 40% could significantly enhance economic activities across the region.

In addition to promoting intra-ASEAN trade, Malaysia is also exploring market diversification. Mohamad mentioned the country’s participation in the BRICS bloc and emphasized the importance of fostering a strategic trilateral partnership between ASEAN, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and China.

“This partnership is crucial. The Gulf nations have strong purchasing power, while ASEAN possesses a large workforce and rich natural resources. Together with China’s vast market, the economic benefits for ASEAN countries, particularly Malaysia, will be substantial,” he noted.

As Malaysia pushes for greater regional collaboration, the potential for enhanced trade and economic growth within ASEAN is clear, positioning the bloc to navigate the complexities of the global marketplace more effectively.

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