New Measures To Assist Asean Countries

We are pleased to announce the introduction of new measures to further promote economic integration and competitiveness in the ASEAN region.

These include support for a legal structure to underpin e-commerce, the mutual recognition of skills between countries and the promotion of quality assurance systems for fish and fishery products and fruit and vegetables grown in ASEAN nations.

The four projects totalling $5.16 million will be funded by the Australian Government’s overseas aid program and are part of a six-year $45 million ASEAN-Australia Development Cooperation Program (AADCP). They are due to commence shortly.

Australia is a strong supporter of ASEAN members integrating into one market for goods, services and investment as we recognise the benefits that can be derived from the removal of trade barriers, the easy transfer of goods and services and labour mobility.

Through the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and Australia and New Zealand (CER) Closer Economic Partnership (CEP), Australia is actively promoting trade and investment with ASEAN and encouraging regional economic integration. Economic competitiveness will enable the private sector and small to medium enterprises to develop, especially in the large food and agricultural sector.

The AADCP is an important part of Australia’s overall development assistance to the region which in 2003-2004 will amount to an estimated $395 million. The Program complements efforts by Southeast Asian countries to improve economic governance and strengthen regional integration in the wake of the 1997 Financial Crisis.

The AADCP is consistent with the emphasis the Australian Government’s aid program places on good governance and the importance of economic growth in reducing poverty.

Contacts:  Chris Kenny (Downer's office) (02) 6277 7500, Matthew Doman (Vaile’s office)  (02) 62777420