Enhancing ASEAN's Competitiveness: Strategies for Talent Mobility and Cooperation in the Digital Economy

Mahirah Mahusin and Hilmy Prilliadi
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Mahirah Mahusin: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA)

No PB-2024-12, Working Papers from Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA)

Abstract: This policy paper examines the critical role of talent mobility and cooperation in fostering innovation and addressing the growing digital skills gap in ASEAN. Despite rapid growth in the region’s digital economy, the talent pool remains insufficient to meet the demands of information and communications technology and knowledge-based industries. Current ASEAN efforts, such as the ASEAN Agreement on the Movement of Natural Persons and various mutual recognition arrangements, have not fully addressed these challenges. This paper argues that integrating talent mobility and development provisions into the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) will enhance regional competitiveness. By promoting regional cooperation, addressing skill gaps, and creating a unified framework for talent development, the DEFA can support ASEAN’s transition towards an innovation-driven economy. Key recommendations include the establishment of a regional dialogue platform, creation of a region-wide ‘tech pass’, and increased private sector involvement in workforce development. Latest Articles

Pages: 4 pages.
Date: 2025-01-28
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