BANGKOK, Thailand – ASEAN has advanced economic cooperation with the European Union, the United Kingdom, Russia, and Switzerland across digital trade, the green economy, technology, supply chains, and investment. Vice Minister for Commerce Dr. Kirida Bhaopichitr represented Thailand at meetings between ASEAN economic ministers and dialogue partners in Manila in late September.
ASEAN and the EU are working to complete Digital Trade Principles by November 2026, covering digital trade, trusted data flows, open and fair digital markets, and confidence in online commerce. A European business survey found that 78% of respondents plan to expand trade and investment in ASEAN. Thailand also held talks with the EU on the Thailand-EU Free Trade Agreement ahead of the 10th round of negotiations in Phuket from September 28 to October 6, while seeking appropriate support for farmers and MSMEs.
ASEAN and the UK endorsed a 2026 joint declaration and updated economic work program covering regional economic integration, trade infrastructure, and the transition toward digital and green economies. ASEAN and Russia agreed on a strategic trade and investment program for 2026–2035 covering 11 areas, including digital transformation, science, technology, the circular economy and the creative economy, with bilateral trade targeted at US$45 billion by 2035.
ASEAN and Switzerland also endorsed a 2026–2030 cooperation work plan covering economic relations, supply chains, and greater participation by the private sector and MSMEs. Thailand proposed closer food supply chain cooperation, leveraging Swiss capabilities in innovation and food processing alongside Thai raw materials and processed foods. Thailand is seeking to complete its domestic ratification process for the Thailand-EFTA Free Trade Agreement by October 2026, with entry into force targeted for January 1, 2027. (NNT)
