About the Event
A region in flux. The future in focus. Southeast Asia is center stage in a high-stakes showdown over trade, technology and geopolitics. With global powers vying for influence, the region stands at an exciting yet daunting crossroads: align with one side, or skillfully thread the needle to forge its own path and keep both sides satisfied. The choice could reshape Southeast Asia’s economic destiny.
Set against the backdrop of the 47th Asean Summit in Malaysia, the Bloomberg Business Summit at Asean captured this pivotal moment. We spotlight how leading CEOs and influential policymakers are navigating an evolving economic landscape and driving sustainable growth across the region.
2025 Themes
Rewiring Trade
Trade tensions transformed Southeast Asia into a manufacturing powerhouse as companies diversified away from China but U.S. tariffs threaten to stall this growth. We explore how businesses and policymakers across the region are navigating an increasingly complex trade landscape.
Risky Business
Geopolitical risk is a new normal for Asean leaders, driven by U.S. unpredictability and China’s strategic shifts. Amid this volatility, global investors are zeroing in on Southeast Asia highlighting key sectors and cross-border moves shaping the region’s future. Agility, foresight and strategy will define who stays ahead.
The Global AI Race
Thriving tech hubs, strategic semiconductor manufacturing and dynamic startup ecosystems are positioning Southeast Asia as a serious player in the global AI race. Yet infrastructure gaps, talent shortages, limited advanced chip capabilities and trade tensions present hurdles, and opportunities, as the region seeks to shape its AI future.
Future-Proofing Sustainability
Sustainability is no longer optional for Asean economies, it’s central to resilience and growth. As global standards tighten and climate impacts intensify, regional leaders, businesses and policy-makers are working to turn climate risk into long-term opportunity.
Catch up on Some of the 2025 Conversations
Watch More Highlights from Bloomberg Summits in Asean
Sign up to learn more about Bloomberg Business Summit at Asean
Be among the first to hear about speaker and agenda updates and how to watch the live broadcast.