Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized the transformative potential of formal cooperation between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) during his keynote address at the ASEAN-China-GCC Economic Forum 2025 on Tuesday. He described such collaboration as a cornerstone for reinforcing a rules-based global trade system amid rising economic uncertainties.
The RCEP, encompassing 15 Asia-Pacific economies including China, Japan, and ASEAN members, and the GCC, representing six Middle Eastern nations, collectively account for 35% of global GDP. Wong highlighted that enhanced trade and investment flows between these blocs could unlock 'substantial benefits' for businesses, investors, and consumers worldwide.
'In a turbulent global environment, strengthening ASEAN-GCC linkages is not just an opportunity—it’s a necessity,' Wong stated, pointing to shared interests in supply chain resilience and digital innovation. The forum, attended by policymakers and industry leaders, explored synergies in energy transition, fintech, and cross-border infrastructure projects.
Analysts note that RCEP-GCC collaboration could reshape Eurasia’s economic geography, offering new opportunities for multinational enterprises while addressing challenges like tariff barriers and regulatory fragmentation.
