ASEAN should unite regarding GMT implementation: Malaysian official

Kuala Lumpur (VNA) - There is an urgent need for ASEAN member states to work towards an agreement not to circumvent the global minimum tax (GMT) as countries begin to adopt the tax, according to Malaysian Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong.

Addressing the ASEAN Economic Opinion Leaders Conference themed “Outlook for 2025” in Kuala Lumpur on January 8, Liew stated that ASEAN should evolve into a middle-class society, becoming a substantial consumer market rather than merely serving as production sites in the traditional model of export-led industrialisation.

ASEAN must unite and communicate to multinationals that collecting these taxes is essential for the greater good of the people. This effort is crucial for ASEAN's emergence as a middle-class society, which will create a substantial market for all, including multinationals, he stressed.

The bloc should prioritise the protection of the climate and environment, Liew Chin Tong said while highlighting the need for sustainable development.

Stressing the necessity for fostering stronger regional solidarity, the deputy minister said this is the time for ASEAN member states to view one another not as competitors, but as complementary partners in building a resilient regional supply chain./.

VNA

See more

mbassador Anouparb Vongnorkeo, Permanent Representative of Laos to the United Nations (UN) (Photo: https://kpl.gov.la/)

Laos works closely with UNICEF to protect children’s rights

Ambassador Anouparb Vongnorkeo, Permanent Representative of Laos to the United Nations (UN) emphasised the partnership between UNICEF and the Lao government in ensuring and promoting children's rights and well-being, while mentioning challenges ahead, particularly amid climate change and global economic uncertainties.

Deputy for tourism and infrastructure development at the Ministry of Tourism Hariyanto. (Photo: ANTARA)

Indonesia boosts culinary tourism

To promote Indonesian culinary tourism, the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism is currently focusing on culinary products to ensure that tourism products can move up a class. It is also paying attention to wellness tourism, gastronomy, marine, and fashion.

A truck arrives as another departs from Laem Chabang deep-sea port in Chon Buri province. Thai exports to the US could face higher trade barriers. (Photo: Bangkok Post)

Thai exporters risk higher US tariffs: expert

Thai exports to the US that are at risk of US trade barriers include Bluetooth modules, broadband products, solar modules, power adapters, machinery and parts, auto parts, mobile camera modules, and air conditioners.

Illustrative image (Photo: Internet)

Lao, Cambodian Parties vow to tighten ties

The 15th high-level meeting between the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) took place in Vientiane, Laos on February 7.

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Prime Minister of Thailand Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on February 6, 2025. (Photo: Xinhua)

Thailand, China strengthen bilateral ties

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn affirmed Thailand's commitment to deepening law enforcement cooperation with China and its neighbouring countries, pledging strong and decisive actions to combat cross-border crimes, including online gambling and telecom fraud.