ASEAN is confident it can complete the actual implementation of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) as scheduled in 2026, thereby consolidating the region’s role in shaping the global digital economy landscape.
Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Zafrul said that regional cooperation under the DEFA negotiation framework provides member states with a platform to review the progress of DEFA negotiations.
He said this today during his opening remarks while chairing the Special Meeting of the ASEAN Economic Community Council (AECC).
He said that apart from assessing progress, it is even more important to discuss two key issues that require policy guidance.
“These two issues involve whether to impose tariffs on electronic transmissions, and where computational facilities should be located when fulfilling commitments in the financial services sector.”
Zafrul pointed out that ASEAN will also receive an update on the latest progress towards pushing for the full conclusion of DEFA in 2026, with the agreement set to become an important strategic roadmap for continued cooperation in the region.
“Following the 14th meeting of the DEFA Negotiating Committee earlier this month, I am pleased to see the significant progress made since the first special meeting on August 28, 2025.
“The continued work of the Negotiating Committee fully demonstrates our joint commitment to implementing DEFA, which is also one of Malaysia's main economic deliverables (PED) for this year.”