As a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), there are many agreements and partnerships that have been established over the years. These agreements cover a wide range of areas including trade, investment, security, and cooperation among member nations. In this article, we will explore some of the most important ASEAN agreements that have been established.
1. ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA)
The AFTA agreement was signed in 1992 and entered into force in 1993. This agreement aims to create a single market and production base among ASEAN member nations by eliminating tariffs on goods traded between member countries. The goal is to increase trade and investment flows in the region and promote economic integration.
2. ASEAN Investment Area (AIA)
The AIA agreement was signed in 1998 and entered into force in 1999. This agreement aims to promote and facilitate investment flows within ASEAN by creating a favorable investment environment for investors. The AIA provides for the liberalization of investment regimes, protection of investments, and the facilitation of investment-related activities among member nations.
3. ASEAN Framework Agreement on Services (AFAS)
The AFAS agreement was signed in 1995 and entered into force in 1996. This agreement aims to create a liberalized services market among ASEAN member nations by promoting the free flow of services within the region. The AFAS provides for the elimination of restrictions and barriers to the provision of services among member countries.
4. ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF)
The ARF was established in 1994 as a platform for dialogue and cooperation on security issues among ASEAN member nations, as well as other countries in the region. This agreement aims to promote confidence-building measures, prevent conflicts, and enhance cooperation in the areas of security and defense.
5. ASEAN Plus Three (APT)
The APT agreement was established in 1997 and involves ASEAN member nations, as well as China, Japan, and South Korea. This agreement aims to enhance economic cooperation among the participating countries through the promotion of trade and investment, as well as cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
6. ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA)
The ACFTA was established in 2010 and involves ASEAN member nations and China. This agreement aims to create a free trade area among the participating countries by eliminating tariffs on goods traded between them. The ACFTA has helped to boost economic and trade relations between ASEAN and China over the years.
7. ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA)
The AANZFTA was established in 2010 and involves ASEAN member nations, as well as Australia and New Zealand. This agreement aims to create a free trade area among the participating countries by eliminating tariffs on goods traded between them. The AANZFTA has helped to increase trade and investment between ASEAN and Australia/New Zealand.
In conclusion, these are some of the most important agreements and partnerships that have been established among ASEAN member nations. These agreements have helped to increase economic integration, trade, and investment among participating countries, as well as promote regional security and cooperation. It is important for ASEAN member nations to continue to strengthen these agreements and partnerships, as they play a crucial role in the development and growth of the region.
