South-east Asia uniquely positioned to capitalise on AI boom: China-Asean panel

South-east Asia has emerged as a promising region for artificial intelligence growth, according to panellists at the China-Asean Business Leaders Summit 2026. The region's unique geopolitical positioning, demographic advantages, and expanding infrastructure make it well-suited to capitalize on the AI boom. With a young population, averaging under 30 years old, and a large market of nearly 700 million people, the region has the potential to become a key player in AI technology.

Panellists identified AI as the region's next growth frontier, with investment in AI infrastructure and data centres doubling in just 12 months in Johor. The region's ability to choose between AI technologies from the US and China, two of the main AI superpowers, provides a unique opportunity for local markets. Financing for AI development in the region is being provided through five layers: energy, chips, infrastructure, models, and applications.

Furthermore, industrial AI, autonomous vehicles, and robotics present significant growth opportunities in Asean, which is a global manufacturing hub. For investors, the market is complex, consisting of many different markets with varying languages and rules. Panellists urged regional leaders to open data borders, welcome international talent, and deepen collaboration among stakeholders to sustain the growth momentum in AI.