ISDS Case Map
ASEAN
A ‘non-aligned’ foreign policy is key, as is Asean’s preference for dialogue and cooperation over the intense rivalry of the great powers.
ASEAN member states, Australia and New Zealand have substantially concluded negotiations to upgrade a free trade agreement (FTA), which will include new features to ensure the continued flow of essential goods during times of crisis.
Signing of the Philippines-South Korea free trade area (PH-ROK FTA) will have to wait until early next yet instead of this month, as both parties are still reviewing text and provisions of the trade deal.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is yet to make a decision on the ratification of the RCEP as he wants to ensure the trade agreement will not be detrimental to local industries.
Canada has expressed preference for a free trade agreement with the ASEAN instead of one with the Philippines, dampening the hopes of some groups that a bilateral trade deal between the two countries will be forged.
ASEAN, Australia and New Zealand have progressed negotiations to upgrade the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA).
Australia’s assistant minister for trade Tim Ayres will attend the 45th meeting for ASEAN economic ministers, with main missions to progress a trade and investment relationship with Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members.
Korea suggested a new agreement on digital technology and systems with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries under their free trade pact in a move to further bolster bilateral economic ties, Seoul's trade ministry said.
The US has been trumpeting that its IPEF will bring prosperity to the region. But its sole purpose is to advance the “Indo-Pacific Strategy” and key interests of the U.S. instead of driving post-pandemic recovery, development and prosperity of the region.
The AIFFWF, in its organisational report, also highlighted the eviction of 2,250 families of fisherfolk, involved in small-scale fishing, from a lake spread over 10,187 acres.
