ASEAN boosts ties with regional partners

The ministers reaffirmed the importance of ASEAN's economic integration into the region and the world.

During a working session with South Korea, the ministers focused on discussing measures to effectively implement the ASEAN-Korea free trade agreement. They also promoted trade cooperation under a comprehensive tax reduction program that allows origins to be certified using an electronic seal and signature.

ASEAN also agreed to strengthen cooperation with Japan, Korea and China in promoting the exchange of supply chain initiatives in the region. The meeting continued with discussions on economic partnerships between ASEAN and Australia and New Zealand.