Recent developments in the relationship between ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and Canada are paving the way for a promising future marked by strengthened economic cooperation. During the ASEAN Summit held in late September, Canada achieved official recognition as a strategic partner, a significant milestone in the growing alliance between the two regions. Canada has been a dialogue partner to ASEAN since 1977, but this elevated status signifies a deeper commitment to collaboration.
Negotiations for an ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement (ACAFTA) commenced in 2021 and are expected to reach completion by 2025. For Canada, ACAFTA represents a golden opportunity to tap into the vast Southeast Asian market, which boasts a population of over 600 million consumers. Additionally, this region is predicted to have the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2030, making it a highly attractive prospect for Canadian businesses.
It’s noteworthy that Canada already has free trade agreements in place with several ASEAN member states, including Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Brunei, through their participation in the Comprehensive Progressive Agreement for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which was formally signed in 2018.
In terms of trade, Canada and ASEAN recorded a total trade volume of US$26 billion in 2022, with ASEAN enjoying a surplus of just over US$17 billion.
Opportunities Abound for Canadian Investors
- Agriculture: Southeast Asia’s increasing wheat consumption, driven by a growing population and changing dietary preferences, presents an enticing opportunity. The region’s climate makes it challenging to cultivate wheat, leading to significant imports. Indonesia, for example, is the largest wheat importer in the region, and Canada holds a substantial market share, second only to Australia. Canadian durum wheat, in particular, is highly regarded in Indonesia for making bread and noodles.
- Digital Economy: Southeast Asia’s digital economy is on a rapid ascent, with projections indicating a gross merchandise value (GMV) of US$330 billion in 2025, up from US$194 billion in 2022. With a burgeoning tech-savvy consumer base and over 450 million internet users, the region offers abundant opportunities for Canadian investors. E-commerce is expected to be the primary driver of this growth, with travel, food transport, and media also contributing significantly.
- Infrastructure: The region’s rapid urbanization and projected population growth of over 700 million by 2040 necessitate substantial infrastructure investments. Southeast Asia requires an annual average investment of US$210 billion to meet these needs. Canadian companies can play a pivotal role in areas such as telecommunications, water, road development, energy, sea, and airport infrastructure. Regulatory reforms are being implemented to make infrastructure projects more attractive to the private sector, creating additional opportunities for Canadian businesses.
In conclusion, the recent developments in the ASEAN-Canada relationship, including Canada’s elevation to strategic partner status and the progress towards the ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement (ACAFTA), hold immense promise for both regions. As negotiations advance with an anticipated conclusion in 2025, ACAFTA has the potential to unlock a wealth of opportunities for Canadian investors across diverse sectors. This evolving partnership signifies a mutually beneficial path toward enhanced economic collaboration and prosperity.