What is the role of Southeast Asia in Australia's economic future? | 7.30

Strategic concerns about China have put a renewed focus on the question of why Australia has not been as successful in penetrating markets in South East Asia - markets which are now growing faster than our trade with them.

The Albanese Government last year appointed prominent businessman, and former head of Macquarie Group, Nicholas Moore, as its special envoy for the region.

His South East Asian Economic Strategy - containing 75 ideas to boost two-way trade and investment - was released to coincide with the Prime Minister's recent visit to the region.

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[indoman]

Indonesia’s economy is projected to be the fourth largest in the world by 2045 and our political and business elities still haven’t been able to devise a coherent plan on how to take advantage of this situation, which is happening right on our doorstep.

[scottable]

Might be time for the Boomers to just be quiet and let the next generation figure the world out.

[sarcasmo]

It's also pretty close compared to other places.

[PhilipWong]

Australia primarily exports raw, unprocessed commodities and imports mostly finished products. Australia is known for its significant exports of commodities such as iron ore, coal, natural gas, and minerals, while it imports a wide range of manufactured goods.

[ethannguyen]

We have so many bilingual people in Australia. they’re potential investors to the region