ASEAN Economic Ministers signed the 5th Protocol aimed at enhancing the ASEAN Comprehensive Investment Agreement (ACIA) on September 16 in Vientiane. Led by Lao Minister of Industry and Trade Mr. Malaythong Kommasith and ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, the event took place during the 56th ASEAN Economic Ministers' Meeting.

The protocol aims to boost investor confidence and improve the region's investment climate. Key features include converting the reservations list into a negative list for transparency, expanding investment to new sectors such as agriculture and fisheries, and introducing a streamlined mechanism for select ASEAN members. Once all members sign, the revised list will be completed within 180 days.

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