Asean reimagined: How innovation, connectivity and SMEs are driving regional growth

A collaboration between Mastercard and Asean-BAC aims to provide new pathways to prosperity, building the foundations for long-term growth, according to Mastercard’s Jon Huntsman and Asean-BAC Malaysia’s Tan Sri Nazir Razak

With its young population, vibrant cities and fast-growing economies, South-east Asia is drawing attention from investors and innovators alike. By 2030, Asean is projected to become the world’s fourth largest economy.

Over the same period, its digital economy is expected to more than double to US$560 billion (S$726 billion), driving jobs and innovation in the region. But positive trendlines alone are not enough. Against the backdrop of leadership challenges and geopolitical shifts, long-term success requires clear strategy, collaboration in the public and private sector, and a shared vision.

Here is one such vision that we believe everyone should be able to agree on and work toward together: In this era of technological transformation and economic transition, we need to work harder than ever to ensure a deep and broad foundation for economic growth.

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