POLICY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF DIGITAL ECONOMY IN THE ASEAN PLANNING AND STRATEGIC DOCUMENTS

Abstract

Relations in the field of digital economy are relatively new to the modern
reality, and therefore the related policy need planning. The COVID-19 pandemic, which
increased the dependence on digital products and platforms, has contributed to more active implementation of digital development policies by countries and its consolidation in
their planning and strategic documents. To date, the process of digital transformation, one
way or another, has affected the entire world economy. However, of particular interest to
the study are those countries or regions that, by conducting active political actions,
demonstrate successful examples of such transformation. Southeast Asia is one of these
regions, and the integration grouping with the participation of the countries of this region
(ASEAN) has the potential to become one of the five leading digital economies in the
world. The present article analyzes the ASEAN policy for the development of digital economy, as well as the systematization of the planning and strategic documents that consolidate it. It is revealed that the level of such policy varies significantly in the ASEAN
member countries. Some of them carry out improved digital policy, develop and implement comprehensive plans and strategies in this area, provide a wide range of institutional
support to economic sectors and entrepreneurs. Others are cautious about taking any political initiatives; they often lack a single planning document; however they have plans
and programs for the development of hotel areas of digital economy. The authors conclude that political efforts at the level of individual countries are insufficient for the fullfledged digital development of ASEAN. Therefore, in the future, ASEAN member countries should focus specifically on regional initiatives of an integrated nature.