SMU Emerging Markets
Global and interactive business collaboration centre for research on emerging markets
Global and interactive business collaboration centre for research on emerging markets
Global and interactive business collaboration centre for research on emerging markets
Global and interactive business collaboration centre for research on emerging markets
Global and interactive business collaboration centre for research on emerging markets
Global and interactive business collaboration centre for research on emerging markets
Global and interactive business collaboration centre for research on emerging markets
Global and interactive business collaboration centre for research on emerging markets
Southeast Asia
Key Emerging Markets
Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines and Myanmar
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Major Industries
Coal, Palm Oil, Sugar, Textile, Telecommunications, Electronics, Medical Equipment
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History
Southeast Asia (SEA) in recent years has been an area of growth and prosperity, with recording 2019 GDP at USD$3.1trn and 5-year CAGR of 5.7% from 2020 to 2024. Most of these countries are part of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), which was formalized on 8 August 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Their main goal was to accelerate economic growth, social progress, cultural development, protection of regional peace and stability, and opportunities for member countries to discuss differences peaceably.
Outlook
Increased global uncertainties continue to put pressure on the growth prospects of the region; however, ASEAN economies continue to grow anchored by resilient private consumption and domestic growth.
Stability of Region
In the past, Southeast Asia was beset by instability in the past, due to underdevelopment. However, with the formation of ASEAN and member nations working towards peace and stability, the region’s climate has improved drastically. While currently stable, this stability is relatively fragile and vulnerable to political unrest, and racial and religious clashes. Terrorism, corruption, and resistance to authoritarian governments are still rampant especially in countries such as Thailand, Myanmar, and Indonesia. However, work is in progress towards creating a more stable region by the ASEAN Federation of nations.
Economy
With favourable demographics, a well-educated and cheap workforce, a rich endowment of natural resources, and an advantageous location, Southeast Asia’s economy is expected to sustain the rapid growth of the recent past. Most of the ASEAN economies have been historically dependent on agriculture but with globalization, manufacturing and services have become increasingly important as well. Trade barriers have also been lowered by a continuous historical commitment to free trade through regional frameworks created through ASEAN and this will likely help them emerge as an alternative destination for foreign investment outside of China. Previously heavily dependent on external demand, domestic drivers will also play a more important role in Southeast Asian economies going forward.