ACCI welcomes the release of Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040.

The Southeast Asia Economic Strategy confirms the enormous potential for Australian businesses in key sectors across our region.

“Australia is well-placed within this growing region, but it will take a determined and ongoing focus to ensure we best capitalise on the opportunities in the years ahead. The strategy is a welcome first step in that effort,” ACCI chief executive officer Andrew McKellar said.

“The strategy provides an opportunity to look over the horizon and think again about what we can do to bring about a step change in our engagement with Southeast Asia.

“Our trade agreements with ASEAN nations are some of our most-used and valued, but the commercial relationship and future growth opportunities extend well beyond the export of goods.”

ACCI commends Nicholas Moore AO on the extensive consultations undertaken in preparing the strategy and urges government to remain closely engaged with business.

“We look forward to working with government to make the strategy a success, including through building the capability of the business chambers in the region and helping businesses better utilise our trade agreements in Southeast Asia.”

ACCI Head of Business Development and International Affairs, Chris Barnes, is in Jakarta this week attending the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit, the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum and for meetings with our international counterparts.