ASEAN Outlook of Indo-Pacific: Pushing All the Wheels to Gain Regional Sustainability

The ASEAN Outlook of Indo-Pacific (AOIP) emerges as a potential catalyst for advancing ASEAN’s competitiveness. This chapter explores the evolution of regionalism in Asia, tracing its roots from the East Asian Economic Caucus to present-day initiatives like the AOIP. It argues that regionalism, driven by both institutional frameworks and market forces, holds the key to sustained economic growth and resilience in the face of globalization. The chapter also emphasizes the pivotal role of manufacturing in ASEAN’s development trajectory, highlighting the need for financial deepening to bolster the sector’s performance. Additionally, it examines the dynamics of the global production network within ASEAN Plus countries, shedding light on opportunities and challenges for optimal participation. Insights from this analysis underscore the imperative for ASEAN and its partners to prioritize regional cooperation and address structural constraints to realize the full potential of the Indo-Pacific region.