Can the Boao Forum Turn Asia’s Ambitions into Action?
As Asia aspires to lead in green and digital innovation, the path forward is challenged by fractured supply chains and geopolitical divides. The Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 is addressing these hurdles head-on, aiming to transform ambition into tangible progress.
Australian strategist Digby James Wren emphasizes the importance of converting dialogue into actionable initiatives. “Turning policy discussions into economic impact isn’t easy,” he notes, “but it’s crucial for driving forward.” He highlights the need for institutionalizing follow-up mechanisms and developing working groups to turn innovative ideas into blueprints for success.
Wren points to the scalability of projects as vital. “Getting things done at speed and scale are hallmarks of innovation,” he says. “Applying successful models to countries like Pakistan, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam can accelerate growth across the region.”
Financing is another critical area. “Mobilizing finance isn’t easy,” Wren acknowledges. “We need better access to the right contacts for funding, especially in areas like AI and green technology.”
He also stresses the importance of prioritizing digital and green initiatives. “Asia, led by the Chinese mainland, is at the forefront globally,” he remarks. “We should support these efforts across all partner countries in Asia.”
However, challenges remain. Supply chain resilience must be strengthened to navigate issues like tariffs and fragmentation. Wren mentions successes such as the Laos-China railway and Indonesia’s Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail as examples of progress.
“Geopolitical fragmentation is problematic,” Wren states. “Inclusive multilateralism isn’t optional—it’s essential for survival.” He advocates for leveraging existing networks like ASEAN and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) to create a more unified market.
Wren suggests that companies like Huawei and Xiaomi can play a role in improving communication governance and data-sharing. “We need to avoid the Balkanization of ASEAN countries due to disconnected data systems,” he explains. “The Boao Forum could establish a toolkit to address these issues.”
As Asia builds bridges through cooperation and innovation, the race is against time. The goal is a future where shared ambitions aren’t just discussed—they’re realized. The Boao Forum stands as a catalyst in turning Asia’s collective aspirations into reality.
