The IMT-GT subregion is poised to capitalise on the rapidly growing digital economy, which mirrors ASEAN’s trajectory. The ASEAN digital economy is projected to contribute an additional $1 trillion to regional GDP over the next decade, with the internet market experiencing unprecedented growth. IMT-GT anticipates similar double-digit growth from 2020 to 2025, propelled by regional frameworks such as the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2025, the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025, and the e-ASEAN Framework Agreement.

Despite these opportunities, IMT-GT faces several challenges, including limited digital literacy, uneven broadband coverage, insufficient infrastructure investment, and barriers to cross-border digital trade. Additionally, MSMEs—a vital component of the subregion’s economy—grapple with high costs, inadequate skills, and lack of access to relevant digital services and connectivity.

To address these challenges and unlock the potential of the digital economy, IMT-GT has elevated the Sub-Working Group on ICT Connectivity to a full-fledged Working Group on Digital Transformation (WGDT). This transformation enables WGDT to play a pivotal role in driving digitalisation across the subregion.

Focus Area Scope

The IMT-GT WGDT focuses on advancing digitalisation across the subregion, with key efforts aimed at:

• Digital Infrastructure
• Digital Innovation
• Digital Commerce
• Digital Literacy and Skills

The overarching goal is to harness digital technologies and ICT for inclusive and competitive economic growth within the IMT-GT subregion.

To achieve these goals, WGDT will implement the following priority strategies:

• Promote digital commerce and facilitate the digital transformation of MSMEs through reskilling, upskilling, and creating job opportunities.
• Fast-track the implementation of relevant initiatives from the ASEAN Agreement on E-Commerce to promote seamless cross-border digital trade.
• Leverage 4IR technologies like mobile technology, big data, IoT, and cloud computing to enhance business efficiency and productivity.
• Invest in ICT infrastructure projects to modernise and upgrade connectivity, particularly along priority ECs.

Through its comprehensive focus on digital transformation, the IMT-GT WGDT seeks to foster a robust, inclusive, and future-ready digital economy in IMT-GT. By addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities, it aims to position the subregion as a competitive digital hub within ASEAN, supporting sustainable and inclusive growth.