The Australian government will invest AU$505 million over five years to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia, promoting trade, infrastructure, and renewable energy, targeting a two-way trade increase to AU$465 billion by 2040.

Boosting Ties with Southeast Asia

The Australian government has pledged AU$505 million (US$336 million) over five years to bolster relationships with Southeast Asia in its 2024-2025 budget. This investment underscores the region’s strategic importance and aims to foster deeper economic connections between Australia and Southeast Asian nations.

Economic Projections and Opportunities

Southeast Asia is projected to have the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2040, with a compound annual growth rate of four percent from 2023 to 2040. This economic dynamism opens up various sectors for Australian businesses, including green energy, infrastructure, and healthcare. Two-way trade could reach an impressive AU$465 billion (US$310 billion) by 2040, up from AU$287 billion (US$191 billion) today.

Investment Strategy for Growth

The strategy includes a AU$2 billion (US$1.3 billion) investment financing facility to spur Australian private sector investments in Southeast Asia. This facility will support the region’s infrastructure and renewable energy projects by offering loans, equity, guarantees, and insurance. These efforts aim to enhance Australia’s trade and investment footprint in Southeast Asia significantly.

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This article was first published by ASEAN Briefing which is produced by Dezan Shira & Associates. The firm assists foreign investors throughout Asia from offices across the world, including in in China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore, India, and Russia. Readers may write to [email protected].