Kuala Lumpur, 23 September 2025: At the 57th ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting (AEM), ERIA presented three flagship studies supporting ASEAN Chairs in priority areas: semiconductors, electric vehicle (EV) battery passport systems, and economic cooperation between ASEAN and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

First, ERIA introduced the ASEAN Framework for Integrated Semiconductor Supply Chain (AFISS), one of this year’s Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs). The framework highlights ASEAN’s potential to strengthen its position as a global semiconductor hub by expanding assembly, testing, design, and innovation capacities amidst rising demand and shifting global supply chains.

Second, ERIA briefed ministers on its assessment of an EV battery passport framework for ASEAN. The study evaluates member states’ readiness, strengths, and challenges, and offers policy recommendations to support harmonised regional standards and advance sustainability goals.

Finally, ERIA President Tetsuya Watanabe presented findings from the study Enhancing ASEAN–GCC Economic Relations: A Possible Strategic Approach. He underlined the importance of deepening ties with the GCC, particularly through sectoral partnerships in supply chain resilience, the digital and green transitions, and food and energy security, as a strategic response to global trade uncertainties.