HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam — Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan has called for stronger international cooperation and economic integration as countries grapple with geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, and global uncertainty.
Speaking at the 2026 Autumn Economic Forum held recently in this city, Balisacan warned against protectionism, saying economies must diversify their partnerships and strengthen their capacity to respond to changing global conditions.
“We cannot assume that the conditions underpinning past growth will return. But the answer is not to retreat from integration. It is to reduce over-dependence and build our capacity to adapt,” he said.
Balisacan identified artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, digital services, and the shift toward green energy as major drivers of future economic growth. He stressed that countries must invest in infrastructure, innovation, workforce skills, and connectivity to take advantage of these opportunities.
He also emphasized the importance of a strong business environment in attracting investments and supporting innovation.
“The value of an investment depends partly on what the country’s ecosystem enables it to do,” Balisacan noted.
The DEPDev chief pointed to regional cooperation as a way to address challenges that individual economies may struggle to resolve independently, particularly in energy security and digital trade.
He cited ASEAN initiatives involving the Philippines, including the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security and the ASEAN Power Grid, which aim to improve regional energy connectivity and security.
Balisacan also highlighted the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), targeted for signing in November 2026. The proposed agreement seeks to facilitate cross-border digital trade and create more opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises across Southeast Asia.
He further cited ongoing negotiations for the ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement as part of efforts to expand economic partnerships beyond the region.
“Regional integration should create more connections with the world,” he said.
The annual Autumn Economic Forum, organized by the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, gathers government officials, business executives, and development leaders to discuss economic transformation, innovation, and international cooperation.