According to Rasjid, by promoting stronger collaboration among the government, business, and other stakeholders, ASEAN-BAC strives to remove barriers, simplify process, and utilize technology to create a conducive ecosystem for sustainable economic development.
"ASEAN-BAC is committed to encouraging the smoothness of goods, services, and investment flow that will boost economic growth, create jobs, and improve the people's livelihoods in our region," he noted through a statement on Wednesday.
In 2020, some 23 percent of trade and 15 percent of investment were recorded in the ASEAN. This improvement in achievement continues to be supported by enhancing economic and cooperation integration between ASEAN's member countries.
In the same period, ASEAN received a total of US$137 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI). This reflects the appeal of ASEAN for investment opportunities.
ASEAN-BAC then showed greater appreciation toward Trade and Investment Facilitation as one of the pillars of ASEAN Business Awards (ABA) 2023.
Related news: ASEAN promising investment destination for S Korea: ASEAN BAC Chair
Under this pillar, ABA 2023 lauded the extraordinary achievements in two categories, namely Export Growth and Innovative Investment, which contribute significantly to economic growth and integration of ASEAN member countries.
"ASEAN Business Awards 2023 is intended to become a platform to appreciate and celebrate businesses that stood out in this field, inspiring others to actively participate in regional trade and investment activities," Rasjid stated.
"Through this effort, we are determined to make prosperous ASEAN stand on the front line of global trade and investment," he affirmed.
The Export Growth category lauded businesses that showcase extraordinary performance in expanding their export activities in the ASEAN.
These businesses managed to utilize the broad market opportunity in the ASEAN, utilizing their strength to encourage export growth, create jobs, and contribute to the region's economic development.
The Innovative Investment category bestows award on businesses that have showcased extraordinary creativity in their investment strategy or financing model.
This category focuses on investment that has a transformative impact on the industry, contributes to technological advancements, encourages sustainable development, and creates jobs.
Large-scale businesses to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can register themselves to participate in the award through the link: aseanbacindonesia.id/event/aba-2023.
Related news: Trade Minister pledges to support Kadin's ASEAN-BAC chairmanship
Related news: Digital transformation can improve ASEAN competitiveness
Translator: Ade irma Junida, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
