The ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) Negotiation Has Reached a Conclusion
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The ASEAN Senior Economic Officials Meeting (SEOM) successfully resolved all outstanding issues regarding the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) during its second meeting in Manila, held on May 27-29, 2026. This milestone marks the conclusion of negotiations for the world's first region-wide digital economy agreement.
The implementation of the DEFA is projected to potentially double the value of ASEAN’s digital economy to approximately CAD 2.8 trillion by 2030, compared to an estimated CAD 1.4 trillion under current trends.
The DEFA establishes a regional framework to shape the future of trade, investment, and innovation. Its key focus areas include:
Commerce & Trade: Digital trade, cross-border e-commerce, and competition policy.
Data & Security: Data governance and privacy, online safety, and cybersecurity cooperation.
Infrastructure & Logistics: Digital identity and electronic payments.
Future Innovation: Emerging technologies (such as artificial intelligence) and digital talent mobility.
The agreement aims to create a seamless, secure, and inclusive digital environment. It serves as a tool for development and integration, designed to narrow development gaps, support MSMEs, and ensure the benefits of digitalization are widely shared across all ASEAN Member States.
The DEFA is a key component of the AEC Strategic Plan 2026-2030 and ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future. Officials anticipate the signing of the agreement in November 2026, alongside the 49th ASEAN Summit and the 28th AEC Council Meeting.
As Canada and ASEAN continue to deepen economic ties under their Strategic Partnership, the conclusion of the DEFA negotiations presents a significant gateway for businesses to unlock new opportunities and avenues for investments and public-private partnerships.
The full statement of the Chairperson of the Senior Economic Officials Meeting (SEOM) of ASEAN on the conclusion of ASEAN DEFA negotiations can be found below.
