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Critical and emerging technologies (CET) are helping tackle global challenges – from water shortages to food production to healthcare and disaster response. Advances in technology, supported by international standards, are transforming industries and creating pathways to a more sustainable and inclusive digital future.

For developing countries, aligning CET with international standards offer opportunities to help develop the use of innovations and technology, support global trade and collaboration, and strengthen national security.

To support this, �������� partnered with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on a three-year initiative: International Standards Integration for Critical and Emerging Technologies in Southeast Asia. The project focused on building knowledge and practical skills to support CET standards development across the region through a mix of virtual bilateral communications and in country workshops.

As part of the initiative, �������� hosted a range of virtual and in-person events to strengthen regional engagement with international standards and build capacity in CET. These included Community of Practice sessions, Digital Summit and Masterclasses, and in-country workshops leading up to the CET Summit in June 2025.

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CET Summit highlights

The CET Summit brought together National Standards Bodies from Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Over three days, participants shared their Action Plans, reflected on key outcomes from the project, and took part in workshops, field visits, and presentations.

Minh Thi Ngoc Nguyen from Vietnam’s Commission for Standards, Metrology and Quality of (STAMEQ), said “There’s limited awareness and technical expertise around CET. This project gave us access to international best practices and a chance to learn from �������� and other countries.”

Maria Teresita Del Rosario, from the Bureau of Philippines Standards, added: “We’ve seen more stakeholders getting involved in standards development. Thanks to this project, we’ve taken more leadership roles internationally and brought together local experts to shape our national standards.”

�������� remains committed to working with Southeast Asian countries to advance CET standards – helping ensure technology benefits all communities, respects local traditions, and drives innovation.

🔗Learn more about our CET initiative.