Based on this agreement, the regional digital economy framework is targeted for signing in November 2026 at the ASEAN Summit.
"All ASEAN member countries are keen to finalize all the substance of the negotiations by the 21st (final) Round in May 2026. Our target is that the DEFA agreement must be signed in November of this year, after the legal scrubbing process and domestic consultations in each country," he said in a statement on Thursday.
He explained that the current development of the digital economy is very dynamic and must be responded to wisely by the regional bloc.
"Although the DEFA text is not yet perfect, it must be finalized immediately while undergoing periodic reviews in line with the dynamics of the digital economy," Hartarto continued.
After signing, the ratification process by each member country is targeted for completion within 180 days to reflect the collective commitment to realizing the benefits of the agreement for the region.
For Indonesia, the framework aligns with the implementation of the National Digital Economy Strategy 2030 and supports efforts to join the OECD.
These goals include strengthening digital infrastructure and developing human resources while transforming small businesses and strengthening cybersecurity regulations.
Through this agreement, Indonesia is expected to enhance policies based on international practices and attract investment in the high tech sector.
The initiative also aims to strengthen national data sovereignty and build an inclusive digital ecosystem for micro, small, and medium enterprises.
The regional initiative was originally launched during the chairmanship of Indonesia in 2023.
As the world's first comprehensive regional digital economy framework, the pact is designated to be a key driver of integration while strengthening the position of the region as a global digital hub.
According to a BCG study, a comprehensive agreement could increase the value of the regional digital economy from US$1 trillion to US$2 trillion by 2030.
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Translator: Bayu Saputra, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Arie Novarina
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