With the Philippines taking on the helm of the ASEAN chairship this year, experts say the country is well poised to advance regional efforts to combat illicit trade given its focus on enhancing cooperation and securing regional trade. According to the executive director of the EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) Chris Humphrey, the discussion on illicit trade has been moved up in ASEAN’s agenda in recent times, with Malaysia driving up dialogue during its chairship last year. “The groundwork has been laid, and the next step is crucial: moving from partnership rhetoric and piecemeal enforcement to a sustained regional system that […]... Keep on reading: Philippines seen as key player in ASEAN efforts against illicit trade