Latest Developments in Southeast Asian Business Trends (January 2026)

News 1

What will power South-east Asia in the coming year? 5 trends to watch in 2026

Key points: Trade resilience amid tariff troubles; Domestic growth as primary engine; FDI reaching new levels; Accelerated inflow of high-tech and private capital; Balancing sustainable transformation with AI infrastructure investment. The region maintains overall resilience, with Vietnam and Indonesia leading growth.

News 2

Southeast Asian consumer market set for $5 trillion boom despite headwinds

Key points: Private consumption is projected to grow at an average annual rate of 8% by 2035, with the Southeast Asian consumer market reaching $5 trillion. Middle-class expansion drives recovery in FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods), retail, and services. While growth slowed in parts of 2025, a moderate rebound is expected in 2026. China's consumption recovery also benefits regional supply chains.

News 3
TikTok Shop Southeast Asia cross-border e-commerce GMV doubles yearly, launching “Billion-Level Leading Group” plan in 2026
Key points: TikTok Shop’s cross-border e-commerce GMV in Southeast Asia continues to double annually. In 2026, the core focus shifts to “driving high-quality growth” and “building sustainable ecosystems,” with the launch of the “Billion-Level Leading Group” support program to help top merchants build global brands. Content-driven commerce (short videos + social) is experiencing explosive growth on the platform.

News 4
2026 Predictions: Six Trends Shaping the Future of ASEAN Businesses
Key points: AI transitions from foundational to mature, including localized AI, ambient AI, personalized agents, and orchestrated intelligent agents. Over 70% of Asia-Pacific enterprises adopt AI automation. The digital economy shifts focus to the “intelligent economy,” with booming investments in e-commerce, fintech, and data centers.

News 5
Vietnam tops Southeast Asia employment outlook for 2026 with 7.1% growth
Key points: Employment growth rankings: Vietnam (7.1%), Indonesia (5.9%), Philippines (5.2%), Malaysia (4.8%), Thailand (4.7%). High demand for roles in high-tech, digital, finance, logistics, and manufacturing, but skills mismatch persists. Companies emphasize localized talent and AI-related skills.

News 6
Vietnam’s e-commerce market enters explosive period in 2026, with annual growth of 18%-25%
Key points: Vietnam’s e-commerce market, valued at ~$32 billion in 2025, is projected to maintain 18%-25% annual growth in 2026, continuing to lead Southeast Asia. Competition intensifies and logistics costs rise, but penetration surges, riding strong momentum in deep digital consumption.

News 7
Hanoi Digital Declaration: Embracing AI as key enabler for ASEAN digital future
Key points: ASEAN adopts the Hanoi Digital Declaration, emphasizing AI’s shift from connectivity to “connected intelligence.” The ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) is expected to be signed in 2026, driving the digital economy toward $2 trillion. Collaborative projects like the China-ASEAN AI Industry Innovation Center will also be implemented.

News 8
Indonesia will see faster growth in 2026, President tells Davos
Key points: Indonesian President Prabowo predicts accelerated economic growth in 2026, highlighting policy dividends and its status as Southeast Asia’s largest economy. Core drivers include strong domestic demand, middle-class expansion, and high-tech investments.