Singapore PM hopeful for Asean

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong says much work is still needed to establish the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), a single market for trade and development in 2015. …

Lee, head of the most advanced economy in the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, said agreements have yet to be reached on rules for investments, services, market access and opportunities for professionals moving from one country to another. …

When asked how Singapore will contribute to reducing the development gap between itself and emerging markets such as Myanmar and Cambodia, he said several programs will be available. …

Cambodian economists had mixed reactions on prospects for economic integration, when borders across the region come down allowing for the free flow of labour, goods and services.

Kang Chandararot, director of the Cambodia Institute of Development Study, said businesses in the country aren’t equipped to compete with the rest of ASEAN, and that problem should be solved locally first. …

 

Kay Kimsong
http://www.phnompenhpost.com/business/singapore-pm-hopeful-asean