Deputy Trade Minister Roro Calls on ASEAN to Unite Against Global Uncertainty
Jakarta — Indonesia’s Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti has called on ASEAN member states to unite in addressing global uncertainty, including the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
According to her statement in Jakarta on Tuesday, rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have the potential to disrupt global trade stability. “These tensions could impact strategic trade routes, including the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz as one of the world’s major energy distribution channels, which could ultimately affect supply chain stability and international trade values,” she said whilst speaking at the ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Retreat and Related Meetings 2026 in Manila, Philippines.
At the forum, held from 11–13 March 2026, Deputy Trade Minister Roro emphasised the importance of ASEAN’s collective response to increasingly complex global geopolitical dynamics. She expressed the view that ASEAN nations need to strengthen regional cooperation and solidarity to maintain economic stability and ensure the sustainability of regional economic integration.
Roro stressed that ASEAN holds a strategic position in maintaining an open trade system and strengthening regional economic resilience. “Amidst global geopolitical dynamics and geoeconomic fragmentation, ASEAN must remain united and strengthen collaboration. An approach that prioritises openness, economic integration, and regional cooperation is key to maintaining regional stability and economic growth,” the Deputy Trade Minister said.
She also affirmed support for the concept of “resilience without retreat”—an effort to strengthen regional economic resilience without reducing commitment to trade openness and economic integration. This approach is considered important to ensure ASEAN remains a competitive, inclusive region capable of addressing global disruptions.
Furthermore, Roro emphasised that cooperation among ASEAN nations should be directed towards strengthening strategic sectors, including food security, energy, digital technology, and semiconductors. “Rather than competing in providing incentives between countries, ASEAN should strengthen the division of roles and regional collaboration in developing these strategic sectors. In this way, we can build a stronger and more competitive regional supply chain,” she explained.
On this occasion, Deputy Trade Minister Roro also stressed that Indonesia, under the direction of President Prabowo Subianto, is paying considerable attention to strengthening food and energy security as part of its strategy for addressing global dynamics. According to her, Indonesia is currently experiencing a rice production surplus, which creates opportunities to strengthen its contribution to regional food stability. “Indonesia currently has the capacity to contribute to maintaining regional food stability. We are exploring opportunities to export rice to several ASEAN countries,” Roro said.
Additionally, amidst global geopolitical uncertainty that could disrupt world energy supplies, Indonesia also stated its readiness to be part of the solution in maintaining regional energy security. “Amid uncertain geopolitical conditions, ASEAN nations certainly need to ensure where energy supplies can be obtained stably. Indonesia has resources that can contribute to supporting regional energy security,” she added.
Roro also encouraged ASEAN to expand economic partnerships with various global partners to reduce the risk of market concentration and strengthen the region’s position in the international trade system. According to her, ASEAN plays an important role as an anchor for economic stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Therefore, maintaining unity and policy coordination among member states is a key factor in addressing global uncertainty. “Countries in ASEAN must continue to demonstrate that regional cooperation is our main strength. By remaining united, ASEAN can face global challenges while simultaneously capitalising on available economic opportunities,” the Deputy Trade Minister concluded.