ASEAN Leaders Tackle Global Trade Challenges at Bangkok Summit

Regional powerhouse seeks stability amid rising trade tensions and digital disruption

Bangkok, Thailand - September 11, 2025

Southeast Asia's top trade experts and business leaders gathered in Bangkok yesterday to address the growing challenges facing global commerce. The International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD) hosted its annual Southeast Asia Trade and Development Forum, bringing together decision-makers from across the ASEAN region to discuss how countries can navigate increasingly turbulent economic waters.

Trade Wars and Tech Disruption Take Center Stage

The forum, themed "The Changing Realities of International Trade," couldn't have come at a more critical time. With trade wars escalating worldwide, environmental regulations tightening, and artificial intelligence reshaping entire industries, ASEAN nations are looking for ways to stay competitive while protecting their economies.

"We're seeing structural risks that are more interconnected than ever before," explained Professor Somkit Lertpaithoon, Chairman of ITD's Board of Directors, during his opening remarks. "From rapid technological changes to geopolitical tensions and environmental crises, these challenges are creating cascading effects across our region."

The concerns are well-founded. Recent data shows that global trade volatility has reached levels not seen since the 2008 financial crisis, with protectionist measures increasing by 40% in the past two years alone.

Small Businesses Face Big Challenges

One of the forum's key focuses was how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups can survive and thrive in this challenging environment. These companies, which form the backbone of many ASEAN economies, are particularly vulnerable to global trade disruptions.

"Thai businesses today face a double-edged sword," said Suphakit Charoenkul, ITD's Executive Director. "They're dealing with everything from trade wars to tougher environmental standards, plus the disruptive impact of AI and digital technologies. Our SMEs and startups need practical strategies to compete in global supply chains."

The statistics tell the story: Nearly 70% of Thai SMEs report struggling with international compliance requirements, while 45% say they lack the resources to adapt to rapid technological changes.

World-Class Experts Share Insights

The forum featured an impressive lineup of international speakers. Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs, the renowned economist from Columbia University and former UN Special Advisor, delivered a keynote address on "The Global Realities: Trade, Tensions, and Transformation."

Dr. Bruno Casella from UNCTAD presented findings from the World Investment Report 2025, while Melinda Good, the World Bank's Country Director for Thailand and Myanmar, discussed innovative financing solutions for trade and development.

Business leaders also shared their perspectives, including Smith Panomyong from Gulf Energy Development and Matthew Moodey from Deutsche Bank's Asia Pacific division.

Digital Economy Creates New Opportunities

Despite the challenges, the forum highlighted significant opportunities in the digital economy. A special "Little Giants" session showcased emerging unicorn founders and cross-border entrepreneurs who are driving the region's digital transformation.

These digital pioneers are finding ways to turn global challenges into competitive advantages. For example, several Thai startups are using AI to streamline supply chain management, while others are developing fintech solutions that help SMEs navigate complex international payment systems.

ASEAN's Strategic Response

The forum emphasized ASEAN's unique position as a stabilizing force in global trade. With a combined GDP of over $3.7 trillion and a population of 650 million, the region has significant leverage in international negotiations.

"ASEAN can serve as a bridge between major trading blocs," noted one industry expert at the forum. "Our diversity and strategic location give us advantages that individual countries can't match."

The discussions revealed several key strategies ASEAN nations are considering:

Strengthening Regional Supply Chains: By increasing trade within ASEAN, countries can reduce their dependence on volatile global markets. Current intra-ASEAN trade accounts for about 25% of the region's total trade, but experts believe this could increase to 35% within five years.

Digital Integration: The forum highlighted plans for improved digital connectivity across borders, making it easier for businesses to operate regionally. This includes harmonizing digital payment systems and creating shared platforms for trade documentation.

Sustainability Focus: Environmental regulations are increasingly driving trade decisions. ASEAN countries are working together to develop green trade standards that can compete globally while protecting local environments.

Innovation Hubs: Several nations are creating special economic zones focused on emerging technologies, from biotechnology to renewable energy.

Practical Solutions for Businesses

The forum wasn't just about high-level policy discussions. Participants shared practical advice for businesses trying to navigate current challenges:

Diversify Supply Chains: Companies are learning not to put all their eggs in one basket. Successful businesses are spreading their supplier networks across multiple countries and regions.

Invest in Digital Tools: From AI-powered logistics to blockchain-based verification systems, technology is helping businesses become more efficient and transparent.

Focus on Sustainability: Environmental compliance isn't just about meeting regulations anymore – it's becoming a competitive advantage as consumers and partners increasingly prefer sustainable businesses.

Build Regional Partnerships: Rather than competing solely on price, businesses are finding success through collaboration and specialization within regional networks.

Looking Ahead

As the forum concluded, participants expressed cautious optimism about the region's future. While challenges remain significant, ASEAN's collective approach to problem-solving is showing results.

"This forum represents more than just knowledge sharing," concluded Executive Director Charoenkul. "It's creating actionable policy recommendations for governments while giving entrepreneurs opportunities to connect with investors and regional partners."

The next steps include developing specific policy proposals for ASEAN trade ministers, creating new funding mechanisms for SME internationalization, and establishing regular forums for business leaders to share best practices.

Key Takeaways

The Southeast Asia Trade and Development Forum 2025 delivered several important messages:

• ASEAN nations must work together to navigate global trade volatility

• Small and medium businesses need targeted support to compete internationally

• Digital transformation is essential for remaining competitive

• Sustainability is becoming a key factor in trade relationships

• Regional integration can provide stability in uncertain times

As global trade continues to evolve rapidly, events like this forum play a crucial role in helping Southeast Asian nations chart their course forward. The combination of expert analysis, practical solutions, and regional cooperation offers hope for building a more resilient and prosperous future.

----

The International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD) is a non-profit public organization established under Thai government law in 2001. ITD works closely with the Thai government, international organizations, and regional bodies to promote sustainable trade and development in Southeast Asia.

About ITD: For more information about ITD's initiatives and programs, visit www.itd.or.th or follow their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/itd.th