Asean nations have built regional production networks across many sectors, boosted their competitiveness in global markets and significantly reduced poverty. This uncertainty hanging over global trade means Asean must find a new engine with which to maintain its robust growth. The next step for Asean integration lies in the need to build a sense of community and identity among Asean citizens; striking successful trade deals, while crucial, is not enough. Third, Asean nations should strive to increase citizen participation in Asean forums and agendas in order to build public trust in its systems and processes. Until now, an Asean identity has come second to the single nationality mindset.

Source: Bangkok Post November 09, 2017 21:56 UTC