As global trade systems face unprecedented challenges, the European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are stepping up collaboration to shape a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready economic partnership. From 26 to 28 August 2025, industry leaders, government officials, and digital economy experts from both regions gathered in Singapore for a series of workshops focused on digital trade and supply chain resilience, two strategic areas identified for deepened cooperation.

The workshops, organised by the Enhanced Regional EU-ASEAN Dialogue Instrument (E-READI) and supported by the ASEAN Secretariat and the Mission of the European Union to ASEAN, built on momentum from past consultations and the EU-ASEAN Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment. They brought together high-level delegates from ASEAN Member States, the European Commission, business councils, and the private sector to exchange perspectives and chart a forward-looking agenda.

A Shared Vision for the Digital Trade

The EU-ASEAN Workshop on Digital Trade reflected a shared recognition that the digital economy is key to long-term growth. With ASEAN’s ongoing negotiations on the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), the workshop offered a timely opportunity to align visions, unpack differences in regulatory approaches, and explore synergies.

Discussions covered a broad spectrum of areas, from cross-border data flows and cybersecurity to digital identities and online consumer protection. The workshop also served as a validation point for a joint EU-ASEAN study launched earlier in 2025, which maps digital trade frameworks and highlights areas for convergence. With strong interest from both sides, actionable recommendations are expected to guide future cooperation, drawing from real-world case studies such as the EU-Singapore Digital Partnership.

Securing Resilient Supply Chains

In parallel, the Workshop for Industry on EU-ASEAN Supply Chain Resilience addressed how both regions can respond to disruptions caused by pandemics, geopolitical tensions, and shifting economic priorities. Participants from industry and policy discussed concrete barriers in customs procedures, infrastructure, and logistics, and identified where joint action can make a difference.

Specific workshop outcomes?

The result was a unified call for smarter, more interconnected systems, built on greater predictability, co-investment, and trust. Policy-makers received clear signals from the private sector on where support is most needed, from facilitating trade in essential goods to enhancing transparency and responsiveness during crises.

Momentum for a Stronger Partnership

Both workshops reaffirmed that when the EU and ASEAN align purpose with their strategic partnership, they unlock far greater potential. With insights gathered and policy recommendations underway, these dialogues form important springboards for sustained collaboration towards economies that are both responsive and resilient.