China and ASEAN have solidified their economic partnership with bilateral trade reaching 6.99 trillion yuan ($962.98 billion) in 2024, sustaining a 16-year streak as each other’s largest trading partners. In an exclusive interview with KhabarAsia.com, ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn highlighted the “dynamic and substantive” evolution of the relationship, emphasizing untapped potential in digital innovation and sustainable development.
“Our partnership isn’t just about numbers—it’s about building shared resilience,” Kao remarked, noting initiatives like cross-border e-commerce frameworks and clean energy infrastructure projects. He also pointed to rising investments in AI and smart manufacturing as key drivers for future growth.
For travelers, researchers, and diaspora communities, the deepening ties promise expanded cultural exchanges and streamlined regional travel. Business professionals, meanwhile, can expect new regulatory synergies to ease market access across ASEAN and the Chinese mainland.
