The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN)
The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, The Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. With a combined GDP of US$3.3 trillion (in 2011) and a population of more than 600 million people, ASEAN countries represent attractive markets for Australian companies across many sectors. And what’s more, ASEAN is right on Australia’s doorstep.
For further information about the ASEAN region and the latest key economic indicators and statistics, please see the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade – ASEAN economic fact sheet.
ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement
The agreement establishing the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) is Australia’s most ambitious trade deal to date. The countries of ASEAN constitute one of the most dynamic economic regions in the world.
AANZFTA is Australia’s first multi-country FTA. It is the first time Australia and New Zealand have been involved jointly in negotiating an FTA with third countries. It is the first time ASEAN has embarked on FTA negotiations covering all sectors including goods, services, investment and intellectual property simultaneously. This makes it the most comprehensive trade agreement that ASEAN has ever negotiated.
AANZFTA will deliver real commercial benefit for exporters and investors, including extensive tariff reduction and elimination commitments. Further information on AANZFTA is available from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). The site includes important information for businesses.
Doing business in ASEAN
For more information on doing business with ASEAN member states, or about specific export opportunities, go to the Austrade country and industry section. As well as country-specific information, the Austrade website also provides a database that can be searched by industry.
Information on ASEAN markets is also available from DFAT country fact sheets:
Current travel advice
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade provides advice for business travellers and tourists going to ASEAN countries. This is regularly updated, and should be checked before planning travel.
