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COVID-19

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7 Ways to Bolster Southeast Asia’s ‘Fragile’ MSMEs

November 19, 2020

To navigate the COVID-19 crisis, MSMEs require tailored approaches, with the most vulnerable being prioritized.
The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement is expected to improve market access, build regional supply chains, increase investments and opportunities, and boost economic recovery efforts during the COVID-19 crisis. Photo credit: Asian Development Bank.

5 Things You Need to Know about ASEAN’s Biggest Trade Agreement

November 19, 2020

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) groups the 10 ASEAN member states and its 5 regional partners: Australia, the People’s Republic of China, Japan, Republic of Korea, and New Zealand.
Direct cash transfers or deferrals of tax or rent could boost local consumption and help improve sales of local retailers, which are often micro-enterprises. Photo credit: Asian Development Bank.

Targeted Measures for Small Businesses Are Critical to Economic Recovery

November 09, 2020

Small businesses need dedicated programs to help them weather the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, says an ASEAN–OECD policy paper.
International travel is still restricted in many parts of the world, including in Southeast Asia. However, countries have recently made tentative efforts to reopen their borders. Photo credit: Asian Development Bank.

Here’s a Bright Spot for Tourism

November 05, 2020

International recognition amid the pandemic is a bright spot for tourism and travel players struggling to regain their business.
News Brief

Education Ministers Embrace Digital Learning

October 27, 2020

Digitalizing education systems in ASEAN has become more urgent during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, which has made face-to-face learning difficult.
A line of motorcycle riders waiting to be tested

ASEAN Enhances Health Cooperation with New Initiatives

October 23, 2020

With no end in sight for the pandemic, ASEAN countries are scaling up efforts to protect public health from COVID-19 and improve their collective response.
The first Southeast Asia Development Symposium (SEADS) will be held via video conferencing. This photo shows the backend operations of a virtual meeting, which has become the new normal during the pandemic. Photo credit: ADB.

The New Normal: Driving Economic Recovery through Digital Innovation

October 15, 2020

A virtual symposium will gather policy makers and stakeholders to explore innovative responses to the COVID-19 crisis.
All hands are on deck to fight COVID-19. Photo credit: Asian Development Bank.

Winning the War against COVID-19 Hinges on International Cooperation

October 13, 2020

Countries must work together to ensure the fair distribution of the future COVID-19 vaccine.
News Brief

ASEAN Builds Capacity in Disaster Management

September 29, 2020

A 3-year project will enhance the capacity of disaster management professionals from ASEAN countries by setting certification standards.
The ASEAN-wide Self-Certification Scheme is expected to benefit particularly the small manufacturers and traders that have had difficulty getting the proper documents to avail of preferential tariff under the trade agreement. Photo credit: iStock/Bastian Saputra.

ASEAN Simplifies Trade Procedures for Exporters

September 22, 2020

Self-certification scheme improves ease of doing business while lowering costs.