Malaysia, Thailand aim to achieve 30 bln USD bilateral trade target

The two countries agreed to continue developing special border economic zones and simplify immigration and customs procedures to facilitate trade and travel between the two countries.

Kuala Lumpur (VNA) – Malaysia and Thailand have agreed to accelerate border connectivity projects, move forward with the development of special border economic zones, and facilitate trade with the goal of raising bilateral trade to 30 billion USD by 2027.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on July 9 that his talks with Thai counterpart Anutin Charnvirakul focused on resolving outstanding issues and strengthening cooperation in various fields.

Speaking at a joint press conference, Anwar said the two sides had reached several agreements ahead of their visit to the Bukit Kayu Hitam (Malaysia) and Sadao (Thailand) border areas on July 10. He described the visit as significant in expanding cooperation from the central level to border areas, demonstrating both countries' commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

Physical and rail connectivity were among the key topics discussed, as approximately 40% of Malaysia–Thailand trade is conducted through cross-border cargo transport. The two leaders agreed to expedite the proposal to build a second bridge linking Rantau Panjang in Malaysia with Sungai Golok in Thailand. They also discussed the possibility of reviving the Rantau Panjang–Sungai Golok railway line.

In addition, the two countries agreed to continue developing special border economic zones and simplify immigration and customs procedures to facilitate trade and travel between the two countries.

Regarding trade, Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia and Thailand's commitment to achieving the bilateral trade target of 30 billion USD by 2027. The two leaders also discussed cooperation in potential sectors such as the halal industry and semiconductors./.

VNA

See more

At the press conference (Photo: VNA)

Lao Digital Week 2026 slated for October in Vientiane

The event will serve as a major information technology and digital innovation platform, with sidelines events including the Lao Digital Forum; seminars on e-government, digital economy, the fourth industrial revolution and smart technologies.

A Facebook post on the official page of Pasaxon newspaper. (Photo: VNA)

Lao media spotlights late NA President’s deep bond with Vietnam

The article stressed that, regardless of the position he held, Xaysomphone Phomvihane devoted to building a prosperous country and a united society. He maintained a particularly deep concern and sincere affection for the special Laos-Vietnam relationship.

Illustrative photo (Photo: ifbaworld.com)

Indonesia ranks fourth in ASEAN in F&B exports

Speaking at the Indonesia Food and Beverage Trade Promotion Forum in Jakarta on August 11, Esti said the country's F&B exports still had significant room for growth as the Ministry of Trade encourages local businesses to expand into international markets through Indonesia's global trade network.

Indonesia plans separate visa for foreign content creators

Indonesia plans separate visa for foreign content creators

Happy Reza Dipayuda, head of the Visa Services Sub-directorate at the Directorate General of Immigration under the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, said the proposed C5A visa would be designed for foreigners travelling to Indonesia to produce digital content, including promotional activities and collaborations with businesses and brands.

The coffin of Xaysomphone Phomvihane, Politburo member of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee and President of the National Assembly of Laos, is carried to the venue for the memorial service. (Photo: VNA)

Laos holds State funeral for National Assembly President

Xaysomphone Phomvihane was a capable revolutionary intellectual with broad knowledge and a strategic vision. Throughout his career, he remained committed to the Party's ideals and objectives, and demonstrated responsibility, flexibility and discipline in carrying out his assigned tasks.

A petrol station in Singapore (Photo: Xinhua/VNA)

Singapore raises 2026 GDP growth forecast

Official data released by MTI show that the country’s GDP grew 5.9% year-on-year in the second quarter, easing from 6.3% in the first quarter. On a quarter-on-quarter seasonally adjusted basis, the economy expanded by 1.4%, extending the 1.2% growth in the first quarter.

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand (fourth from left) and ASEAN ambassadors at the ceremony. (Photo: VNA)

ASEAN, Canada deepen strategic partnership, with Vietnam as key bridge

As ASEAN and Canada look toward the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties next year, they see a chance to turn Strat.gic Partnership commitments into concrete action. In that process, increasingly substantive Vietnam-Canada ties could become a vital link, driving stronger connectivity between Canada and Southeast Asia.

Delegates cut the ribbon to open the exhibition (Photo: VNA)

ASEAN, Japan advance cooperation through future-oriented initiatives

Over the 45 years since its establishment, the ASEAN - Japan Centre (AJC) has served as a bridge connecting ASEAN and Japan. Through its work in promoting trade, investment, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges, the centre has helped strengthen economic linkages while fostering deeper mutual understanding between people from ASEAN member states and Japan.