Asia Briefing’s ASEAN Focused Regulatory and Operational Business Updates

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September 10, 2026

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Weekly business and foreign investment news roundup in Asia

by Asia Briefing and Dezan Shira & Associates (An Ascentium Company).

ASEAN EDITION

TOP STORIES THIS WEEK:

Indonesia Market Entry: Which Sector Licenses Do Foreign Investors Need?

Foreign investors may need additional sector-specific licenses depending on their business activities, products, facilities, and regulatory classification. This guide explains when extra approvals apply and what companies should review before commencing operations.

Singapore Business Licenses: What Companies Need Before They Start Operating

Company registration alone does not always authorise a business to operate. We explain when foreign investors need sector approvals, permits, or licences in Singapore and how these requirements can affect launch timelines and market-entry planning.

Hiring Foreign Employees in the Philippines: Work Permits and Employer Obligations

Employers hiring foreign personnel in the Philippines must manage work permits, immigration approvals, restricted-role rules, payroll, and social security obligations. This guide outlines the key compliance steps businesses should address before onboarding foreign staff.

Filing Annual Financial Statements in Malaysia: Deadlines, Audit, and SSM Requirements

Companies in Malaysia must meet annual financial reporting and filing requirements, including applicable audit rules, SSM deadlines, and MBRS submission procedures. We outline the main obligations foreign-owned companies should plan for each reporting cycle.

Philippines Annual Financial Statements: What Must Be Included?

Annual financial statements in the Philippines must cover financial position, performance, cash flows, equity, disclosures, and applicable audit requirements. This guide explains the core reporting components companies need to prepare for annual compliance.

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COMPLIMENTARY BUSINESS RESOURCES:

Vietnam's New Personal Data Protection Rules: Compliance, Governance, and Risk Management Guide

Vietnam’s New Personal Data Protection Rules: Compliance, Governance, and Risk Management Guide explores the regulatory requirements, implementation challenges, and risk management considerations companies should address to ensure compliance and support sustainable digital operations.

An Introduction to Doing Business in Singapore 2026

This publication, designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in Singapore, was compiled by Dezan Shira & Associates, a specialist foreign direct investment practice providing corporate establishment, audit, business advisory, tax advisory and compliance, accounting, payroll, due diligence, and financial review services to multinationals and small- and medium-sized enterprises investing in emerging Asia.