The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is a landmark bilateral initiative launched in January 2025 by Malaysia and Singapore to boost cross-border economic integration, attract investments, and support sustainable development. As the only cross-national SEZ in ASEAN, the JS-SEZ offers a unique package of benefits, including tax and duty exemptions, streamlined customs processes, and mobility incentives for businesses and talent. However, since its launch, not much is known about the opportunities available for companies looking to tap into the JS-SEZ. Previous iterations of cross-border investment schemes in ASEAN have included discussions about expedited visas for investors, lower tax rates for skilled workers, and streamlined procedures.The US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) is organizing a deep dive into the Johor-Singapore SEZ, working with United Overseas Bank (UOB) to facilitate two days of meetings in Singapore and Johor. This will also include a site visit to Johor for companies to see the developments in Malaysia. Government meetings planned include Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), the Johor State Government, Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA), and the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre - Johor (IMFC-J).

Joint roundtable with Vriens & Partners

The U.S.-ASEAN Business Council (USABC), in partnership with Vriens & Partners, is pleased to invite you to a roundtable discussion and networking reception entitled: “Navigating the Tariff Tide: Southeast Asia’s Role in a Shifting Global Order” on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM at the Council’s Washington office. This roundtable will feature representatives from Vriens & Partners, including: Hans Vriens, Managing PartnerAmbassador William Heidt, Senior Director, Washington, D.C.Brasukra G. Sudjana, Country Director, IndonesiaNazhif Yusoff, Country Director, Malaysia The session will be moderated by Marc Mealy, Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer at USABC, and provide key insights into: Southeast Asia’s responses to U.S. reciprocal tariffs and shifting global trade alignmentsThe impact of U.S.-China tensions on regional policymaking and risk managementPolitical and economic developments in key markets such as Indonesia and Malaysia Event Format 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Roundtable Discussion5:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Networking Reception For any questions, please contact Andrew Koch (akoch@usasean.org).

Together with Palo Alto Networks, the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) is pleased to host a Cybersecurity Event on “Cyber Threat Landscape in the Age of AI: Shaping Effective Policies and International Partnerships” at the Convene Hamilton Square in Washington, D.C. Strengthening national cyber resilience against increasingly sophisticated attacks and the emerging “scamdemic” in the ASEAN region has been a transnational economic security issue, with the region generating US$43.8 billion annually from cyber scams. The United States is a primary target, with analysts estimating as much as US$159 billion in collective losses or over 0.6% of its GDP in 2023. Constantly evolving technological advancements such as generative AI, deepfakes, and cryptocurrencies further enable nation state attacks and cybercrime activities. The attackers know no borders – therefore, cross-regional and public-private collaboration between the U.S. and ASEAN partners is critically important. This event aims to gain a better understanding of current and emerging cyber threats, and to explore avenues for enhanced knowledge-sharing and collaboration between ASEAN member states and the United States. In line with the 5th U.S.-ASEAN Cyber Policy Dialogue (November 2024) and the 5th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting (January 2025), this event will expound on both sides’ commitments to responsible state behavior, confidence-building in cyberspace, greater regional cybersecurity cooperation, and capacity-building to combat cyber scams.

The US-ASEAN Business Council is registering senior-level executives for the 2025 Malaysia Business Mission. This year's mission holds great significance as Malaysia holds the 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship this year. The importance of the U.S.-Malaysia economic relationship is even more significant as both countries navigate global and geopolitical challenges. The 2025 Malaysia Business Mission will provide the delegation with unique opportunities for exclusive in-person dialogues with the Anwar Ibrahim administration as well as the East Malaysian governments, with the objectives to strengthen the U.S-Malaysia business relationship, discuss new opportunities, and navigate risks associated with the current global policy landscape. MISSION THEMES The Mission will bring three overarching messages to frame discussions and support our advocacy activities throughout the year: 1. Public-Private partnership on the digital, supply chain and renewable energy efforts: USABC members are taking a more active role to help balance Malaysia’s digital economy, industrial development, and sustainability efforts, enhancing its position in global and regional supply chains. 2. Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship: Leveraging Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship to support USABC members regional advocacy priorities (i.e., connectivity, sustainability, policy harmonization, etc.) related to the ongoing development of the ASEAN Economic Community. 3. Malaysia’s domestic business environment for economic and trade resilience: USABC members reaffirm commitment to push forward measures that both support a more resilient economy and a more competitive business environment for growth in various priority sectors.