Deputy Trade Minister Roro urges ASEAN to strengthen sustainable economy

Jakarta — Indonesia’s Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti stressed the importance of strengthening the sustainability agenda in the economic cooperation of Southeast Asian nations within ASEAN.

Speaking in Jakarta on Monday, Deputy Trade Minister Roro emphasised that sustainability must form the primary foundation in regional economic development so that ASEAN’s growth is not only economically strong but also environmentally friendly and inclusive.

“We believe that the sustainability agenda must be an important pillar in ASEAN economic integration,” Roro stated during the series of ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Retreat and Related Meetings held in Manila, Philippines, from 11-13 March 2026.

Roro continued by noting that efforts to promote regional economic growth must proceed alongside commitment to green transition, strengthening of the circular economy, and achievement of carbon neutrality targets.

In discussions regarding various sustainability initiatives in ASEAN, member states noted progress in implementing several important frameworks, including the Framework for Circular Economy for the ASEAN Economic Community, the ASEAN Strategy for Carbon Neutrality, and the ASEAN Blue Economy Framework.

According to Deputy Trade Minister Roro, these various initiatives demonstrate ASEAN’s commitment to ensuring that the region’s economic transformation continues to prioritise environmental aspects and resource sustainability.

“ASEAN has significant opportunity to become a centre of green economic growth in the region. To achieve this, closer collaboration amongst member states is required to accelerate implementation of green economic policies, strengthen sustainable investment, and ensure inclusive energy transition,” she explained.