"ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA): Implications for Dig" by Brice Tseen Fu Lee, Linh Dieu Dinh et al.
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Abstract

The ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) represents a pivotal initiative in advancing regional digital integration and economic development. This paper explores DEFA's potential impacts on digital trade and regional economic cohesion within ASEAN. By reviewing ASEAN’s official publications and relevant literature, the study evaluates how DEFA aims to address the challenges posed by fragmented digital regulations and infrastructure. The framework's emphasis on harmonizing digital standards and enhancing interoperability is anticipated to facilitate smoother cross-border transactions and reduce regulatory barriers, thereby driving trade and investment in digital services. Economic projections suggest that DEFA could significantly enhance ASEAN’s digital economy, potentially increasing its value from US$300 billion to up to US$2 trillion by 2030. The framework’s focus on addressing current digital trade barriers and fostering innovation positions it as a transformative tool for regional integration. The findings underscore DEFA’s potential to unify digital markets and stimulate economic growth, highlighting its importance for ASEAN's future digital landscape.

Bahasa Abstract

Perjanjian Kerangka Ekonomi Digital ASEAN (DEFA) merupakan inisiatif strategis untuk meningkatkan integrasi digital dan pengembangan ekonomi regional di ASEAN. Makalah ini mengeksplorasi potensi dampak DEFA terhadap perdagangan digital dan integrasi ekonomi di kawasan tersebut. Dengan meninjau publikasi resmi ASEAN dan literatur terkait, studi ini mengevaluasi bagaimana DEFA berupaya mengatasi tantangan yang disebabkan oleh peraturan dan infrastruktur digital yang terfragmentasi. Fokus utama DEFA adalah pada penyelarasan standar digital dan peningkatan interoperabilitas antar negara anggota, yang diharapkan dapat mempermudah transaksi lintas batas dan mengurangi hambatan regulasi, sehingga mendorong pertumbuhan perdagangan dan investasi dalam layanan digital. Proyeksi ekonomi menunjukkan bahwa DEFA dapat secara signifikan memperbesar ekonomi digital ASEAN, dengan potensi peningkatan dari sekitar US$300 miliar menjadi hingga US$2 triliun pada tahun 2030. Penekanan pada penghapusan hambatan perdagangan digital dan dorongan terhadap inovasi menjadikan DEFA sebagai alat transformasi penting untuk integrasi regional. Temuan ini menekankan potensi DEFA untuk menyatukan pasar digital dan merangsang pertumbuhan ekonomi, yang akan berperan penting dalam lanskap digital ASEAN di masa depan.

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