Makati City, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) hosted the 8th High-Level Dialogue on Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Italy Economic Relations on November 06. This marked a significant step towards deeper collaboration between the two regions.

Held in partnership with The European House-Ambrosetti, the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, and the Embassy of Italy in Manila, the event convened 300 key officials, business leaders, and strategic thinkers to discuss shared economic priorities.

This year’s dialogue opened with a focus on the macroeconomic and geopolitical outlook. Speakers discussed the changing landscape of trade, investment, and supply chains. Given that ASEAN is one of the world’s largest trading regions and Italy is a pivotal partner, this session established the foundation for future strategies to strengthen economic partnerships amid global shifts.

Subsequent sessions on sustainable and digital transformation presented insights from experts like Paolo Lombardo of Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) and Michal Ron of SACE. Discussions explored green growth and technological advancements, with an emphasis on partnerships that can support ASEAN’s digital and environmental goals. Industry leaders also investigated high-tech and research sectors, focusing on opportunities for technology transfer, innovation, and collaboration to enhance ASEAN’s resilience and competitiveness.

Furthermore, the dialogue analyzed the potential of creative industries to drive economic growth, with a particular focus on animation, gaming, fashion, and design. This session also showcased ASEAN’s growing influence in the creative economy and the role of cross-border partnerships in strengthening cultural and commercial ties. To give depth to the dialogue, it featured leaders like Marco Bardelli of Nongsa Digital Park and Marlyn Montano from the Animation Council of the Philippines.

The event concluded with a session on the future of ASEAN-Italy cooperation, which outlined an actionable agenda for mutual growth. Senior Minister Siphana Sok of Cambodia and Lorenzo Tavazzi of The European House-Ambrosetti provided insights on deepening ASEAN-Italy relations through economic integration, innovation, and people-to-people connections.

Notable attendees included DTI Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba, Italy’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Maria Tripodi with Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, ASEAN Economic Community Deputy Secretary-General Satvinder Singh, and Asian Development Bank Vice-President Roberta Casali.

With over 3,500 participants in past editions, the ASEAN-Italy High-Level Dialogue continues to serve as an influential forum for cultivating robust, resilient partnerships.

Organized by the DTI, this year’s event in Manila underscored the Philippines’ commitment to fostering economic innovation and integration. It offered a platform for leaders to shape a shared vision for sustainable progress in ASEAN and Italy. ♦

Date of release: 07 November 2024

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