These megatrends are reimagining business and growth in Southeast Asia

In rapidly growing Southeast Asia, where the digital economy is projected to reach US$300 billion by 2025, emerging ‘edges’ are disrupting markets and industries. In “The Edges of Southeast Asia”, Deloitte, EDB and the US-ASEAN Business Council shine a light on the bright spots of creativity and innovation, as well as high growth opportunities in the region.

In the series below, we explore in-depth the megatrends shaping Southeast Asia today, and how entrepreneurs and global companies alike can boldly seize these opportunities for success.

1. The digital developing economy: Southeast Asia in five objects
   
   EDB managing director Chng Kai Fong and regional vice president Brandon Chew take a look at the region’s growing digital economy. Through five objects – from the throwing axe to the motorcycle – they show us what tech-savvy consumers are looking for and the biggest opportunities for businesses.
   
   
2. The great job challenge
   
   How is Southeast Asia’s modern workforce adapting to today’s economic uncertainties? By embracing entrepreneurship and moving beyond skills to build enduring capabilities, says Duleesha Kulasooriya, head of the Deloitte Centre for the Edge in Asia-Pacific. He examines how Southeast Asia can empower its people with digital transformation for a technology-led economic recovery.
   
   
3. Go ‘glocal’ to grow in ASEAN
   
   Bakery chain BreadTalk, media company 88rising, fashion label Mimpikita – these Southeast Asian businesses are finding success by giving the region’s increasingly affluent consumers global offerings with unique local flavour. US-ASEAN Business Council’s Ambassador (Ret) Michael W. Michalak, senior vice-president and regional managing director, and Marc Mealy, senior vice-president of policy, share why global companies should collaborate with innovative local businesses for growth in Southeast Asia and globally.
   
   
4. Building cities with heart and soul
   
   Cities are engines of growth – more than 80 per cent of the world’s gross domestic product is generated in cities. But could we balance the advantages of urban life with its challenges, such as carbon emissions and retaining local culture? Cindy Hook, chief executive officer of Deloitte Asia-Pacific, discusses how Southeast Asia is making their cities more functional and sustainable, and maintaining their unique cultures.