RCEP is hoped to provide opportunities for both corporates and SMEs, but what will they be?
The last 12 months have seen Asian trade and economies rebound following the shock of covid-19. Despite continued tensions between China and America, and climate-led disruptions to supply chains, reasons for optimism about the future of Asian trade remain. | | | | For example, the possible ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) early in 2022 is hoped to provide opportunities for both corporates and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). | As we enter the second quarter of 2022, for business leaders and policymakers with a stake in Asian trade, pertinent questions endure such as: - What are the key policy developments on regional government agendas?
- How will these shape a continued economic recovery?
- Will SMEs continue to form the bedrock of trade in Asia?
- What technologies will emerge that improve supply-chain efficiency and transparency?
- How will COP26 shape sustainability issues and what is the impact on businesses?
| | | |  | Research fellow Hinrich Foundation |  | Senior policy advisor, International Economic Cooperation ERIA |  | Chief, Research and Strategies for Exports International Trade Centre |  | Group chief executive, Li & Fung; President LF Logistics | | | |  | Global director, Sustainability and Environmental Affairs Lenovo |  | Director, Financial Services Industry Microsoft |  | Senior vice president, Logistics & Planning, Global Supply Chain Schneider Electric |  | Director-general Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion, Thailand | | | | What are the key questions they will answer? - Should Hong Kong look to the possibility of re-establishing itself as the pre-eminent port in Asia?
- Should Hong Kong incentivise the shipping industry and launch itself as a regional hub for refuelling vessels running on LNG?
- Would this help increase incoming trade and reduce costs for imports and exports?
- What other opportunities will present themselves through the RCEP, and how can Hong Kong take advantage of them?
- How will COP26 and a renewed push for sustainability affect businesses and policy in the region?
| | | | | | We look forward to you joining us in March. | | | | | |  | Laurel West Managing director, Economist Events, Asia The Economist Group | | | | | | SPEAKING OPPORTUNITIES >> If you are interested in the speaking opportunities available, please contact levinama@economist.com | | | | | | | | |
