SINGAPORE, April 6, 2026
The conflict in the Middle East has entered its second month and is creating one of the most significant disruptions to global energy markets in decades. Trade policy uncertainty also remains elevated. These shocks are reaching the ASEAN+3 region quickly and are affecting the ASEAN+3 region simultaneously.
The region enters this period from a position of relative strength. This reflects sound policies and a shared commitment to regional cooperation built over time. However, resilience cannot be taken for granted and must be actively maintained.
This is where AMRO plays its role. AMRO was created out of the region’s shared experience of the Asian Financial Crisis to conduct regional surveillance and support the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralisation (CMIM).
This year also marks AMRO’s tenth anniversary as an international organization. Amid a more volatile and uncertain global environment, AMRO will continue to provide independent analysis, policy advice, and support for regional financial cooperation. The CMIM, a USD240 billion regional financial safety net, stands ready to provide liquidity when needed.
As the Middle East situation develops, AMRO remains committed to supporting its members through timely risk identification, practical policy solutions, and stronger regional cooperation.
—Mr. Yasuto Watanabe, Director/CEO, AMRO