According to a statement issued Monday, these efforts were reflected in the signing of the draft Second Protocol to Amend the ATIGA by Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, October 25.
The following day, Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz—who chairs the ASEAN Free Trade Area Council—formally handed the draft to ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn.
“The official handover of the agreement draft reflects ASEAN member states’ shared commitment to fostering a modern, inclusive, and sustainable trade system to advance regional economic integration,” Santoso said.
He explained that the trade pact revision, dubbed the ATIGA Upgrade, introduces essential changes to help ASEAN countries address challenges and seize opportunities in regional trade amid shifting global dynamics.
The minister described the upgraded agreement as a strategic instrument for the ASEAN community to promote eco-friendly trade practices, strengthen the role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), enhance supply chain connectivity, and develop alternative mechanisms for resolving trade disputes.
“Beyond merely updating provisions, we are strengthening markets and creating a more conducive environment for growth and the development of resilient, competitive supply chains,” Santoso emphasized.
The renewed ATIGA will take effect 18 months after all parties have signed the protocol. Cambodia and Laos have signed the revision ad referendum—pending domestic ratification—while Myanmar and Vietnam are expected to sign next month.
Director General of International Trade Negotiations at Indonesia’s Trade Ministry, Djatmiko Bris Witjaksono, noted that Indonesia successfully retained provisions on sugar and rice trade within the amendment protocol.
“This is vital for ensuring stability in the prices and supplies of these two key commodities,” he stated, adding that the upgraded ATIGA is also expected to help Indonesian MSMEs expand their market reach across the region.
In 2024, intra-ASEAN trade reached US$823.1 billion, accounting for 21.4 percent of ASEAN’s total trade with global partners.
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Translator: Shofi A, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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