RCEP ministers from ASEAN and partner countries (Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea) met in Manila on 21 September 2026 for their fifth ministerial meeting. The meeting addressed RCEP implementation and ongoing trade matters under the agreement. Specific outcomes are referenced in the full statement.
Topic Archives:Market Access
Secretary-General of ASEAN Participates in the 31st AEM-CER Consultation
The 31st ASEAN Economic Ministers–Closer Economic Relations (AEM-CER) Consultation was held in Manila, with ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn participating. The meeting focused on implementation of the upgraded ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA) as a cornerstone of ASEAN-CER economic relations.
Secretary-General of ASEAN Participates in the 25th AEM-MOFCOM Consultation
The 25th ASEAN Economic Ministers-MOFCOM Consultation was held in Manila, discussing preparations for the entry into force of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA). The meeting involved senior officials from ASEAN and China’s Ministry of Commerce. Specific measures or timelines related to ACFTA implementation were on the agenda.
32nd AEM-METI Consultation Discusses AJCEP Upgrade and Future Economic Partnership
The 32nd ASEAN Economic Ministers-METI Consultation was held in Manila, with discussions on a possible upgrade of the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) Agreement. The meeting also welcomed implementation of future economic cooperation measures between ASEAN and Japan.
First Protocol to Amend ASEAN-Hong Kong, China Investment Agreement Signed
The ASEAN Secretary-General attended the signing of the First Protocol to Amend the ASEAN-Hong Kong, China Investment Agreement (AHKIA). The protocol aims to enhance economic relations and improve transparency and predictability in investment arrangements between ASEAN and Hong Kong, China.
10th AEM–Hong Kong, China Consultation Reviews AHKFTA Implementation
The ASEAN Secretary-General participated in the 10th ASEAN Economic Ministers–Hong Kong, China Consultation in Manila, where discussions covered progress in implementing the ASEAN–Hong Kong, China Free Trade Agreement (AHKFTA). The meeting addressed ongoing FTA implementation matters between ASEAN and Hong Kong, China.
EU announces new regulation amending product and commodity list under EUDR
The EU has published a new regulation modifying the list of products and commodities covered under the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). This update affects exporters of relevant commodities to the EU market. Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade flagged this for affected Vietnamese exporters.
Government Eases RCMC Requirement for Export Consignments up to ₹3 Lakh
India has relaxed the Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) requirement for export consignments valued up to ₹3 lakh, reducing compliance burdens for small exporters. This change affects export licensing/documentation procedures under India’s foreign trade policy. The measure aims to facilitate trade by simplifying procedural requirements for low-value shipments.
Trade Minister Pushes for Continuation of Indonesia-Sri Lanka PTA Negotiations
Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso is urging progress on the Indonesia-Sri Lanka Preferential Trade Agreement (ISL-PTA), specifically calling for a third round of negotiations. The initiative aims to open Sri Lankan markets to Indonesian exports and expand Indonesia’s presence in South Asian markets.
Indonesia Strengthens Trade Ties with UK, Accelerates I-UK CEPA Exploration and Strategic Commodity Cooperation
Indonesia’s Ministry of Trade is advancing trade relations with the UK through acceleration of Indonesia-UK CEPA exploratory talks, Indonesia’s CPTPP accession process, and cooperation on strategic commodities. The Director General of Foreign Trade affirmed these steps in London. Multiple named agreements and accession processes are under active pursuit.