( September 23, 2026, 03:43 GMT | Official Statement) -- MLex Summary: ASEAN economic ministers on Tuesday said they have agreed to accelerate the upgraded ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement, aiming to bring it into force within 2026, while advancing reviews of services rules, Timor-Leste’s integration and implementation of the Digital Economy Framework Agreement. Ministers also pursued sustainability initiatives, external trade negotiations and expanded RCEP membership. The 58th ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting in Manila also laid groundwork for deeper cooperation with the EU and Gulf Cooperation Council, with Singapore set to chair ASEAN in 2027. Statement follows. Transcript is attached....
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