ASEAN Must Strengthen Supply Chain Ecosystem to Navigate Geostrategic Challenges: Anwar Ibrahim
Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the need for ASEAN to build a robust and resilient supply chain ecosystem within the region in order to effectively navigate the growing geostrategic challenges. These challenges include recent tariff impositions by the United States and retaliatory counter-tariffs by affected countries.
In his keynote address at the ASEAN Future Forum 2025, held in Hanoi, Vietnam, on Wednesday, February 26, Anwar acknowledged that while some might argue ASEAN could benefit from the recalibration of global supply chains and diversification efforts, the reality is more complex. “The question remains: can ASEAN truly capitalize on these shifts, or will we be caught in the crossfire of great power rivalry?” he remarked.
Anwar underscored the importance of ensuring that any gains from trade and investment are equitably distributed among ASEAN member states, cautioning against exacerbating existing disparities within the region.
Describing the current era as one of rivalry and division, the Prime Minister urged ASEAN to adopt a new model of trade integration that is aligned with global trends toward environmental sustainability. He noted the significant economic developmental gap across the region, citing the disparity in GDP per capita, where some ASEAN members have over 34 times higher GDP per capita than others.
“We must commit to ensuring that no nation within ASEAN is left behind in the pursuit of economic growth,” Anwar added, calling for collective efforts to address these challenges and promote more inclusive economic development across the region.
