Secretary-General of ASEAN Meets with President of Canada-ASEAN Business Council

Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of Association of Southeast Asian Nations, met with Mr. Wayne Farmer, President of the Canada-ASEAN Business Council, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat to discuss how Canadian private sector engagement can support ASEAN’s strategic priorities under the Philippines’ Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2026.

The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of ASEAN and the Canada-ASEAN Business Council to strengthening economic cooperation between Canada and Southeast Asia at a pivotal time for regional growth and integration.

Discussions focused on several priority areas critical to ASEAN’s long-term resilience and competitiveness, including advancing the ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement (ACAFTA), strengthening cooperation in energy security, promoting sustainable agriculture, and accelerating digital transformation across the region. Both sides also exchanged views on enhancing business readiness to seize emerging economic opportunities under the Philippines’ leadership in 2026.

As the leading platform for Canadian private sector engagement in Southeast Asia, the Canada-ASEAN Business Council plays an important role in connecting businesses with ASEAN’s economic agenda and facilitating partnerships that support sustainable regional development.

This meeting highlights the Canada-ASEAN Business Council’s continued commitment to supporting ASEAN’s priorities and strengthening Canada-ASEAN collaboration through meaningful private sector engagement. By aligning with the priorities of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship, the Canada-ASEAN Business Council remains dedicated to fostering stronger trade relations, deeper economic cooperation, and inclusive growth across the region.