NANNING/China – The future of e-commerce and digital collaboration was the central theme at the recent China-ASEAN Silk Road E-commerce Open Cooperation Promotion Event. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, the Secretary-General of ASEAN, delivered a compelling address on September 24, outlining a tripartite strategy to enhance the e-commerce landscape between ASEAN countries and China.

Dr. Kao’s vision for a robust digital economy hinges on three pivotal areas of cooperation. Firstly, he proposed building upon existing digital transformation initiatives, suggesting that a solid foundation in digital infrastructure and policy can propel the region into a new era of technological advancement. Secondly, he emphasized the importance of maximizing the benefits of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the upgraded ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA 3.0), agreements that promise to streamline trade and investment flows across borders.

The third and perhaps most impactful area highlighted by Dr. Kao was the need for greater collaboration between major e-commerce platforms. This initiative aims to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the backbone of the ASEAN economy. Dr. Kao believes that the digital economy can be democratized by fostering an environment where MSMEs can thrive, allowing smaller players to compete on a global stage.

The event, held in Nanning, China, was a testament to the growing importance of digital trade routes in an increasingly connected world. It echoed the historical significance of the ancient Silk Road, drawing parallels to the modern digital pathways that are shaping the future of commerce.

The outcomes of the event have been promising, with several memorandums of understanding signed between ASEAN member states and Chinese e-commerce giants. These agreements mark the beginning of a concerted effort to tackle the digital divide and create a more inclusive digital market.

As the event concluded, Dr. Kao’s message was clear: the digital Silk Road is not just a metaphor for connectivity; it is a tangible pathway to economic resilience and prosperity. For further details on Dr. Kao’s remarks, the full transcript is available for Download. (zai)