Manila, 8 March 2024: ERIA and De La Salle University co-hosted a collaborative workshop focused on the digital divide in ASEAN, held at the De La Salle University (DLSU), Manila Campus in the Philippines. The one-day event saw participation from the university's faculty members and students, with Chairperson of the ERIA Governing Board Ramon Lopez also attending. The workshop marked the inaugural activity of the ERIA Technology University Network, established through a memorandum signed on 16 December 2023 in Tokyo between ERIA and De La Salle University.

De La Salle University Vice President of Research and Innovation Dr Raymond Girard R Tan opened the proceedings with remarks emphasising his appreciation for the partnership between ERIA and DLSU. He also expressed the significance of this collaborative workshop in raising awareness about the digital divide and devising strategies to effectively address it, which highlighted the shared commitment of both institutions toward fostering digital inclusion in ASEAN.

Koji Hachiyama, ERIA Chief Operating Officer, outlined the mission of the ERIA Digital Innovation and Sustainable Economy Centre (E-DISC) in his opening remarks, and discussed digital transformation in ASEAN, particularly the role played by E-DISC. Through its provision of knowledge and capacity building, E-DISC actively propels the digitalisation process across the region.

'Emphasising its role in catalysing digital innovation, providing a collaborative platform, and preparing the workforce for the future, E-DISC's mission serves as a compass guiding it toward sustainable development in the digital era,' Hachiyama said.

The workshop comprised three distinct sessions. Session 1, Toward the Digital Economy in ASEAN, featured presentations on the evolving education system in the digitalisation era and innovative financial schemes to support start-ups in the ASEAN region. Kirirom Institute of Technology (KIT) Cambodia, an innovative academic institution, addresses rural development and human resources development in the digital era, highlighting a unique approach to bridging the digital divide through academic-industry collaboration. Five key initiatives were also outlined, including educating digital and artificial intelligence (AI) talent and promoting sustainable innovation.

Session 2 delved into the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) negotiations and their policy implications for the region. The discussion was also enriched by insights on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), which aims to foster economic cooperation and inclusive trading systems. Notably, digital trade negotiations are underway, although India is not actively participating. IPEF focuses on consumer protection and trust in digital trade while aligning with agreements such as the World Trade Organisation's Joint Statement Initiative (WTO-JSI) on e-commerce and DEFA. The Philippines is seeking to leverage IPEF digital trade provisions to enhance economic growth through digital economy development, aiming for alignment with national goals to boost productivity and efficiency.

Session 3 explored the Digital Divide in ASEAN, How to Achieve Sustainable Development of SMEs in the region, including an economic analysis of the digital divide in ASEAN during the COVID-19 pandemic through the results of statistical surveys by ERIA and Asian Development Bank (ADB). Dr Keita Oikawa said closing the digital divide in ASEAN's micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) for inclusive growth is crucial. ERIA surveyed over 9,000 firms, finding basic digital tools widely adopted but advanced ones lacking.

COVID-19 accelerated e-commerce and e-payment uptake, especially for micro firms. Challenges vary by firm size, emphasising tailored support and financing needs. Objectives differ, with larger firms prioritising data-driven management. Factors influencing adoption include subscription services and customisation. MSMEs seek government support for knowledge gaps and funding, while larger firms prioritise IT management skills. Firms dealing with multinational partners tended to advance digitalisation during COVID, with increased digital tool adoption correlating with improved sales performance post-pandemic. These findings underscore the importance of targeted strategies to address digital disparities and enhance MSME resilience in the digital age.

The workshop concluded with closing remarks from Koji Hachiyama, who expressed gratitude to all distinguished participants, speakers, and organisers for their contributions to the success of the Workshop on the Digital Divide in ASEAN. He highlighted the insightful discussions that shed light on crucial aspects of the digital economy and the challenges and opportunities for the region.

In his closing remarks Professor Dr Alvin Culaba, PhD, FAAET, Director of Centre for Engineering and Sustainable Development Research (CESDR) at De La Salle University and Vice President of the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines, acknowledged the success of the event and eagerly expressed interest in continuing the cooperation between ERIA and De La Salle University for future research collaboration and other activities.