Summary of "Opening Session"

The Opening Session of the Japan-ASEAN Economic Cooperation Forum 2024 kicked off with a strong emphasis on deepening ties between Japan and ASEAN countries, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and next-generation technologies.

Main Highlights:

Thailand’s Minister of Commerce, Mr. Pai Nan, highlighted the long-standing relationship between Thailand and Japan, spanning over 600 years, with 137 years of formal diplomatic ties. He emphasized Japan’s pivotal role as the largest foreign investor in Thailand, especially in automotive manufacturing. Despite a dip after Thailand’s 2014 political crisis, Japanese investment is rebounding strongly. Thailand is aggressively pushing for Green Transformation and becoming a global hub for electric vehicles (EVs), semiconductors, and AI, aiming for 30% emission vehicle production by 2030. Thailand also showcased its digital and AI initiatives, including AI-powered tourism services and data centers, and stressed its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050.
Vietnam’s Minister of Industry and Trade spoke (via translation) about the need for Japan’s support in industrial technological transformation, renewable energy, and green hydrogen development. Vietnam aims to become part of the ASEAN EV production hub and seeks collaboration on energy diversification, including solar, wind, biomass, and nuclear power, to ensure energy security alongside environmental sustainability.
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. K. Kim Hun delivered a comprehensive address underscoring the ASEAN-Japan Economic Cooperation’s strategic importance. He highlighted the progress since the launch of the Future Design and Action Plan (2023-2033), emphasizing:
- The importance of co-creation between public and private sectors.
- ASEAN and Japan’s complementary strengths in technology, innovation, and sustainability.
- The role of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in boosting trade and investment.
- The critical need to leverage intellectual property, digital transformation, and green technologies to drive inclusive and sustainable growth.
- ASEAN’s growing digital economy and ambitious plans for cross-border digital agreements.
Mr. Ken Kabashi, Chairman of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighted the evolution of Japan-ASEAN relations from resource and manufacturing-based to mutual investment and co-development partnerships. He stressed the importance of collaboration in AI, Next-Generation Vehicles, and Green Transformation (GX). He also noted geopolitical challenges (US-China rivalry, Ukraine, Middle East tensions) but expressed optimism about ASEAN’s role as a growth frontier and Japan’s commitment to supporting SMEs and large corporations in the region.
A message from Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Mr. Muto, read by a deputy, reinforced the importance of Japan-ASEAN cooperation amid global uncertainties. The minister emphasized three key cooperation areas:
1. Green Transformation (GX) and decarbonization.
2. Strengthening robust supply chains, especially in the automotive sector.
3. Promoting digital transformation and AI collaboration, including human resource exchange and safe AI development.

Key Themes & Takeaways:

Next-Generation Vehicles & Green Transformation: Thailand and Vietnam are positioning themselves as regional hubs for EV production, supported by Japanese investment and technology transfer. Both countries aim to accelerate their green energy transitions with Japan’s help.
Digital & AI Innovation: ASEAN’s digital economy is booming, with initiatives to create seamless cross-border digital trade frameworks. AI is being leveraged for tourism, manufacturing, and public services, with a strong emphasis on ethical and secure AI development.
Sustainable Economic Growth: The forum highlighted the shared commitment to carbon neutrality, renewable energy, and circular economy practices, with Japan and ASEAN collaborating on innovative green technologies.
Public-Private Partnerships: A recurring theme was the shift toward co-creation involving governments and businesses to foster innovation, supply chain resilience, and economic integration.
Geopolitical Awareness: Speakers acknowledged global uncertainties but viewed ASEAN-Japan cooperation as a stabilizing and growth-driving force.

Notable Moments & Jokes:

Thailand’s minister humorously admitted feeling “a little drowsy” due to jet lag from an early wake-up call, adding a light, human touch to the formal proceedings.

Personalities Featured:

Mr. Pai Nan, Minister of Commerce, Kingdom of Thailand
Minister of Industry and Trade, Vietnam (name not specified)
Dr. K. Kim Hun, Secretary-General of ASEAN
Mr. Ken Kabashi, Chairman, Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Mr. Yasuyama, Director General for Trade Policy, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan (reading Minister Muto’s message)
Minister Muto, Minister for Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan (message delivered by proxy)

This opening session set a collaborative and optimistic tone for the forum, highlighting the robust Japan-ASEAN partnership centered on innovation, sustainability, and shared prosperity in an increasingly complex global environment.