JETRO Hosts 17th Dialogue with ASEAN Secretary-General, Japanese Companies in ASEAN Request Business Environment Improvements
Tokyo, Japan – August 14, 2025 – The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) successfully hosted its 17th Dialogue with the Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on August 14, 2025. This significant meeting provided a crucial platform for Japanese companies operating within ASEAN member states to voice their expectations and present specific requests for the enhancement of the business environment across the region.
The dialogue, held with the objective of fostering stronger economic ties and facilitating smoother business operations for Japanese enterprises, saw active participation from representatives of the ASEAN Secretariat and a delegation of Japanese business leaders. The discussions centered on identifying key challenges faced by Japanese companies in ASEAN and exploring collaborative solutions to address them.
A prominent theme emerging from the discussions was the strong desire of Japanese businesses to see continued improvements in the regulatory frameworks and operational landscapes within ASEAN countries. While acknowledging the progress made, Japanese companies highlighted areas where further streamlining and predictability would greatly benefit their investments and long-term growth strategies. Specific concerns raised included, but were not limited to, issues related to customs procedures, investment regulations, intellectual property protection, and the overall ease of doing business.
The Japanese participants emphasized their commitment to contributing to the economic development and prosperity of ASEAN nations. They expressed confidence in the region’s potential and underscored the importance of a stable and transparent business environment to unlock this potential fully. The dialogue served as a valuable opportunity for direct communication, allowing Japanese companies to share firsthand experiences and provide constructive feedback to the ASEAN Secretariat.
The ASEAN Secretary-General, in turn, conveyed a strong commitment to working closely with Japan to address the concerns raised. The exchange was characterized by a spirit of mutual understanding and a shared vision for a more robust and integrated ASEAN economic community. The Secretariat acknowledged the vital role that Japanese investment plays in the region and reiterated its dedication to creating an environment that is conducive to foreign direct investment.
JETRO, as a key facilitator of economic relations between Japan and ASEAN, expressed its satisfaction with the productive nature of the dialogue. The organization remains committed to bridging communication gaps and supporting Japanese businesses in their endeavors within the dynamic ASEAN market. The outcomes of this 17th dialogue are expected to inform future policy discussions and collaborative initiatives aimed at further strengthening economic partnerships between Japan and the ASEAN member states.
This annual dialogue continues to be an indispensable forum for fostering a mutually beneficial economic relationship, promoting sustainable growth, and enhancing the business climate for all stakeholders involved.
第17回ASEAN事務総長との対話を開催、在ASEAN日系企業がビジネス環境改善を要望
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日本貿易振興機構 published ‘第17回ASEAN事務総長との対話を開催、在ASEAN日系企業がビジネス環境改善を要望’ at 2025-08-14 07:15. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.