Interview: ASEAN eyes role as 4th largest economy through deeper regional integration, partnerships
JAKARTA, June 11 (Xinhua) -- As the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) advances its economic integration efforts, Indonesian economist Syafruddin Karimi of Andalas University said the region's ambition to become the world's fourth-largest economy is within reach.
"ASEAN is currently entering a pivotal phase in its economic integration project," said Syafruddin in a recent interview with Xinhua. "With the spirit of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration adopted at the 46th ASEAN Summit, the region has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening intra-regional cooperation and accelerating progress toward comprehensive economic integration."
He emphasized that ASEAN has made "significant progress in recent years, particularly in the harmonization of trade standards, the acceleration of physical and digital connectivity, and advancements within free trade frameworks such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership."
"Efforts to promote labor mobility and regional supply chain integration continue, although they still face structural obstacles," he noted.
According to him, ASEAN's goal to become the world's fourth-largest economy is theoretically attainable due to its demographic projections, strategic geographic positioning, and the vast potential of domestic markets.
However, realizing this ambition will depend heavily on consistent structural reforms, political stability, and the collective capacity of member states to create a policy ecosystem that supports investment and innovation.
"Achieving this goal will require stronger policy synergy, efforts to bridge gaps among member states, and a long-term vision that is both consistent and adaptable to global dynamics," he said.
Looking ahead, Syafruddin believed ASEAN has the potential to become a stabilizing force in global affairs. "The region could advocate for a more equitable multilateral trading system and push for more inclusive global governance," he said.
"This vision can only be realized if ASEAN maintains internal cohesion, deepens substantive economic integration, and crafts a consistent external strategy," he noted.
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