Asia Briefing’s ASEAN Focused Regulatory and Operational Business Updates

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March 12, 2026

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Weekly business and foreign investment news roundup in Asia

by Asia Briefing and Dezan Shira & Associates.

ASEAN EDITION

TOP STORIES THIS WEEK:

How CPTPP is Reshaping Malaysia’s Export Markets

Malaysia’s CPTPP exports rose sharply in 2025, opening new growth markets and supply chain roles. Discover how tariff preferences, rising exports to Mexico and Canada, and manufacturing momentum could shape investment decisions.

How Foreign Investors Should Prepare Year-One Tax Compliance Plans in Indonesia

The first year of operations sets the foundation for a company’s long-term tax compliance in Indonesia. Learn how foreign investors should structure their year-one tax strategy, manage monthly reporting cycles, and build accounting systems that support compliant growth.

Philippines–UAE CEPA: Trade Expansion and Investment Implications

The Philippines’ new trade agreement with the UAE is poised to expand market access, boost investment flows, and strengthen ASEAN–Gulf economic connectivity. Explore how the CEPA could support export growth, attract infrastructure financing, and position the UAE as a gateway for Philippine businesses entering Middle Eastern markets.

Vietnam Eases Foreign Access to Equities: What the New Rules Mean for Global Investors

Vietnam has introduced reforms to ease foreign access to its equity markets, including the removal of pre-funding requirements and simplified trading procedures. The changes are expected to lower entry barriers for global investors and support a potential FTSE emerging market upgrade in 2026.

Personal Income Tax Filing in Thailand: What Expats Need to Know

Foreign professionals in Thailand should review personal income tax filing requirements, residency thresholds, deductions, and foreign income rules to assess their tax exposure.

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COMPLIMENTARY BUSINESS RESOURCES:

An Introduction to Doing Business in Indonesia 2026

This publication, designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in Indonesia, was compiled by the experts at Dezan Shira & Associates, a specialist foreign direct investment practice, that provides corporate establishment, business intelligence, tax advisory and compliance, accounting, payroll, due diligence, and ﬁnancial review services to multinationals investing in emerging Asia.

An Introduction to Doing Business in ASEAN 2026

This publication is designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in all 11 ASEAN countries and includes a guide to corporate establishment, tax advisory, and bookkeeping, in addition to HR and payroll, double tax agreements, and audit and compliance.

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