Upgraded Asean trade deal brought forward to end-2026, says Singapore DPM

The upgraded Asean Trade in Goods Agreement (Atiga) is set to take effect by the end of 2026, according to Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong. The decision was made at the 58th Asean Economic Ministers' (AEM) Meeting and Related Meetings in Manila, Philippines, where member countries agreed to ratify the agreement earlier.

Gan emphasized that the accelerated implementation will facilitate intra-Asean trade by simplifying and clarifying rules for businesses operating within the region, making Asean an attractive destination for investment. The decision also demonstrates Asean's commitment to keeping markets open and responding collectively to external shocks and supply chain disruptions.

Brief written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.