Greater Mekong

Greater Mekong — comprising Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam — has significant potential for digital economic growth. However, disparities in infrastructure, regulation, and digital literacy hinder progress. A coordinated strategy is needed to foster inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.

Key Pillars of the Strategy

2.1. Strengthening Digital Infrastructure

• Expand Broadband Connectivity:

  • Invest in fiber-optic networks and 5G rollout in urban and rural areas.

  • Promote public-private partnerships (PPPs) for infrastructure financing.

• Enhance Cross-Border Data Flows:

  • Establish regional data exchange agreements to facilitate seamless digital trade.

  • Develop data centers and cloud computing hubs in key economic zones.

2.2. Promoting Digital Financial Inclusion

• Encourage Mobile & Digital Payments:

  • Support fintech startups with regulatory sandboxes.

  • Expand interoperable payment systems (e.g., Thailand’s PromptPay, Vietnam’s MoMo).

• Boost Cross-Border E-Payments:

  • Implement blockchain-based remittance solutions for migrant workers.

  • Harmonize digital banking regulations across GMS countries.

2.3. Fostering E-Commerce & Digital Trade

• Develop Regional E-Commerce Platforms:

  • Create a GMS Digital Marketplace to connect SMEs across borders.

  • Provide digital skills training for entrepreneurs.

• Simplify Cross-Border Trade:

  • Implement paperless customs clearance via blockchain/DLT.

  • Harmonize digital trade laws under ASEAN frameworks.

2.4. Building Digital Skills & Human Capital

• Integrate Digital Literacy in Education:

  • Introduce coding and AI training in schools and vocational programs.

  • Upskill workers in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

• Encourage Tech Talent Mobility:

  • Establish GMS Digital Talent Visa Programs to attract skilled professionals.

2.5. Ensuring Cybersecurity & Data Governance

• Strengthen Regional Cyber Resilience:

  • Develop a GMS Cybersecurity Alliance for threat intelligence sharing.

  • Implement common data protection standards (e.g., aligned with GDPR or ASEAN PDPA).

• Promote Responsible AI & Digital Ethics:

  • Establish guidelines for AI governance and ethical tech adoption.

2.6. Encouraging Innovation & Startups

• Launch a GM Digital Innovation Fund:

  • Provide grants and venture capital for AI, IoT, agritech, and healthtech startups.

• Create Regional Tech Hubs:

  • Develop special economic zones (SEZs) for digital startups (e.g., Thailand’s EEC, Vietnam’s Da Nang IT Hub).

3. Implementation & Governance

• Establish a GM Digital Economy Task Force:

  • Comprising government, private sector, and academia to oversee execution.

• Leverage Existing Frameworks:

  • Align with ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025 and China’s Digital Silk Road.

  • Monitor Progress via KPIs:

  • Track digital adoption rates, fintech penetration, e-commerce growth, and cybersecurity resilience.

4. Conclusion

By prioritizing digital infrastructure, financial inclusion, e-commerce, skills development, cybersecurity, and innovation, the Greater Mekong can unlock its digital economic potential. A coordinated, cross-border approach will ensure inclusive growth, reduce inequalities, and position the GM as a competitive digital hub in Asia.