The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic upended Southeast Asia’s long period of economic growth and consequently affected the capacity of ASEAN Member States (AMS) to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Achieving the SDGs is still possible for the region, however, it will require a significant upswing in private investment.

The ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework (ACRF), ASEAN’s consolidated exit strategy from the crisis, recognizes that properly managed and implemented sustainable investment will improve economic and social resilience to future shocks, this includes foreign direct invest (FDI). Thus, the ability to continue attracting and retaining investments is crucial not just for generating revenue, but for the continued recovery of ASEAN.

Each of AMS may have different priorities toward the SDGs contingent to their level of development. Nevertheless, it is essential that the investments that ASEAN attracts going forward have maximum sustainable development impact so that ASEAN countries can get back on track to achieving the SDGs. Such investments should contribute to promoting gender equality, improving access to health care and vaccines, building sustainable, climate resilient infrastructure, bridging digital divides and supporting a clean energy transition, among other things.

It is against this backdrop that this Forum is organized to feature investment opportunities in ASEAN that also contribute to inclusive and sustainable development.

Arrangements

This event has three parts: The main forum which will be held in a hybrid format, an exhibition area in the venue featuring booths to showcase investment opportunities in ASEAN (meeting rooms to also be set up to facilitate meetings between investors and companies looking for investment), and a networking dinner.

Target Audience

Investors and representatives from governments, academic institutions, international organizations, business councils and chambers, other members of the private sector, and the media. About 250-300 in person participants are expected.

Networking Dinner

The last part of the event is the networking dinner, which is expected to be attended by Investment Ministers/Head of Investment Agencies from each ASEAN Member States, business councils and chambers, selected academics/experts, and other business representatives, to engaged in informal business talks, business matching, in order to fully utilize the momentum.