New Delhi, Nov. 2 -- Global economic competition is no longer determined solely by control over natural resources, industrial capacity, or the size of domestic markets. Digitalization has become an important factor in determining competitiveness, trade efficiency, and a country's strategic position in the global economy. In this context, ASEAN and India have an opportunity to build a deeper partnership, not merely through trade in goods, but also through digital economic integration.

ASEAN has placed digital transformation on its common agenda. In October 2025, ASEAN member states reached the substantial conclusion of negotiations on the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA). This framework covers digital trade, electronic pay...