ASEAN’s collaboration in the agriculture and food sector dates back to 1968, when Member States first collaborates to strengthen food production and supply across the region. As priorities evolved and regional needs grew, this cooperation expanded in 1977 to include the broader fields of agriculture and forestry marking a key milestone in ASEAN’s journey toward regional food security and sustainability.

At present, ASEAN’s collaboration in this sector covers a broad range of strategic areas, including food security, food safety, halal food, crop production, livestock development, fisheries and aquaculture, genetically modified food testing, agricultural training and extension, agricultural cooperatives, and joint initiatives to promote agricultural and forest products.

Despite these efforts, the region continues to face interconnected challenges that affect food, agriculture and forestry from the impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss to resource depletion and rural poverty. Overcoming these issues requires not just individual action, but collective commitment, innovation and sustainability. Through strong regional collaboration, ASEAN is working to secure the region’s food supply, uplift rural livelihoods, protect vital ecosystems and promote fair and sustainable trade.

A Vision Towards 2045

ASEAN envisions a food, agriculture and forestry sector that nurtures farmers’ livelihoods, safeguards the environment, contributes to climate change adaptation and mitigation, fosters innovation, and strengthens the region’s position as a reliable global trading partner.

To guide these efforts, the ASEAN Framework for Cooperation in the Food, Agriculture and Forestry Sector Towards 2045 sets out a shared vision to transform the region’s food systems. The framework outlines collective strategies and actions that promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve food security and nutrition, protect the environment, foster social inclusiveness and strengthen climate resilience

Building on this foundation, the Sectoral Plan of Action for the ASEAN Food, Agriculture and Forestry (FAF) 2026–2030, along with subsequent plans leading up to 2045, will turn this long-term vision into tangible, measurable progress across the region. The framework focuses on practical implementation, regional cooperation, and active stakeholder engagement to ensure food security, environmental sustainability, and economic prosperity for all ASEAN Member States.

Six Strategic Thrusts for a Resilient ASEAN

To realise this vision, six key strategic thrusts guide ASEAN’s path forward:

1. Promoting Sustainable and Regenerative Measures
2. Advancing Decarbonisation and Climate Resilience in Agriculture
3. Strengthening Food Security and Nutrition
4. Enhancing Trade and Market Connectivity
5. Fostering Public–Private Partnerships and Digital Innovation
6. Strengthening Sustainable Forest Management