OPENING REMARKS (AEM’s CHAIR) AEM-USTR CONSULTATIONS
24 SEPTEMBER 2025 (WEDNESDAY)
1425 - 1555
BALLROOM, LEVEL 3
MITEC
Excellency Amb. Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative,
Excellencies,
Distinguished Delegates,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
On behalf of ASEAN, it is my great pleasure to welcome you and your delegation to Kuala Lumpur and I look forward to a meaningful and constructive exchange today.
The United States is a very important Dialogue Partner of ASEAN where in 2024, total trade between ASEAN and the U.S. reached a record USD 453 billion. The U.S. is also our top export market outside the region, with ASEAN exports to the U.S. surging to USD 312 billion, nearly 16% increase from the previous year - an addition of over USD 42 billion in just one year.
Investment tells a similar story. In 2024, the U.S. was ASEAN’s largest source of foreign direct investment, with inflows exceeding USD 42 billion. That is not just capital - it is a clear vote of confidence in ASEAN’s future and in the opportunities our region provides.
And our ties go beyond trade and investment. People-to-people connections are thriving, with 4.6 million Americans visiting ASEAN last year. These are not just tourists - but students, entrepreneurs, innovators, and families. They strengthen the bonds that unite our regions together.
Our agenda today builds on this solid foundation. We will review the 2024–2025 TIFA and E3 Work Plan, endorse the 2025–2026 Work Plan, and exchange views on the big challenges shaping the world economy. It’s a timely conversation, because we all feel the winds of change- whether in supply chains, digital transformation, or the global push for greener, more sustainable growth.
As Chair, I am confident that today’s consultation will set a clear direction for the next phase of ASEAN–U.S. cooperation. Let us continue building on what we already share: a commitment to openness, resilience, and prosperity that benefits all our peoples.
With that, I once again warmly welcome USTR and your distinguished delegation. Thank you for being here with us, let us have a fruitful dialogue today.
It is now my pleasure to invite Ambassador Greer to deliver the opening remarks. Ambassador, the floor is yours.
Thank you.
--BERNAMA