ASEAN+3 in an Age of Global Uncertainty by Yasuto Watanabe

As the international economic order continues to fragment, ASEAN+3 countries must build collective resilience by fostering regional integration. With sound macroeconomic management, forward-looking structural reforms, and a firm commitment to multilateralism, they can weather unfavorable conditions and emerge even stronger.

SINGAPORE – In times of geopolitical uncertainty, regional unity is the surest path forward. In July, the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) released its updated outlook for the ten members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, plus China, Japan, and South Korea. AMRO revised down its growth forecasts for 2025 and 2026 to 3.8% and 3.6%, respectively, and highlighted the urgent need for greater regional integration.