ASEAN vows to keep markets open amid risksTrade Secretary Ma. Roque said the current landscape requires the region to go beyond keeping markets open, but also strengthening its coordination and foresight for better response. Recognizing the impact of the prolonged Middle East conflict on the economy and jobs, the ASEAN economic ministers vowed to keep markets open to mitigate effects on the region. “We remain committed to keeping the ASEAN market open for trade and investment, by maintaining a transparent and predictable regional economic architecture,” the ASEAN economic ministers said in a joint statement. The economic ministers also emphasized the importance of strengthening regional energy security and resilience through continued collaboration.

Source: Philippine Star March 14, 2026 16:45 UTC