ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement – Negotiations Concluded, Targeted for Signing in November 2026

The modern digital economy is fundamentally predicated upon interconnectivity and cooperation between nations. Unlike traditional trade in physical goods, digital commerce relies on the seamless cross-border flow of data, the interoperability of technological systems, and shared governance frameworks. It is within this context that regional cooperation in digital trade frameworks has assumed critical importance, serving as a foundational mechanism for harmonising regulatory approaches and ensuring that the benefits of the digital economy are shared broadly among participating nations.

Against this backdrop, ASEAN has taken a position as a forerunner in regional cooperation. At the Second Meeting of the 57th ASEAN Senior Economic Officials Meeting, held from 27 to 29 May 2026, negotiations on the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (“DEFA“) were successfully concluded. The ASEAN DEFA is now targeted to be signed at the 49th ASEAN Summit in November 2026.