Over 200 policymakers, regulators and experts from economies across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), gathered in Manila from 21 to 23 October 2026 to exchange experiences and explore practical approaches to reducing unnecessary regulatory complexity through the ASEAN-OECD Good Regulatory Practices Network (GRPN).
The 11th ASEAN-OECD GRPN Meeting was hosted by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) of the Philippines and co-organised by the OECD and GRPN co-chairs, Thailand and the United Kingdom (UK), under the theme, “Complexity to Clarity: Advancing Simplification Together”, recognising the importance that effective regulation plays in supporting economic growth, investment and innovation.
The meeting focussed on advancing regulatory simplification efforts that reduce regulatory and administrative burdens while maintaining high standards of public protection and oversight. Participants exchanged experiences on improving regulatory implementation and review, leveraging digital technologies, and strengthening coordination across government institutions. Discussions also highlighted how good regulatory practices can support the delivery of more efficient and responsive public services.
Daniel Trnka, Deputy Head, Regulatory Policy Division, OECD, said:
ASEAN countries are bringing practical experience of simplification to this meeting, from one-stop shops to single windows for trade, and OECD members can learn from it. That two-way exchange is what this Network is for. For both regions, the aim is smarter regulation without compromising on the protections it provides, and making reform last takes co-ordination, reliable evidence and listening to those affected by regulation.
Rhiannon Harries, Deputy Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific (Southeast Asia), said:
Clearer, simpler regulation helps businesses grow and keeps citizens protected. The UK is proud to co-chair the ASEAN-OECD Good Regulatory Practices Network with Thailand, and we are committed to working with partners to share expertise and advance regulatory reform. By reducing unnecessary burdens while maintaining high standards, governments can create the conditions for investment, innovation and long-term growth.
Kanan Chaichana, Director of Law Research and Reform Section, Office of The Council of State, Thailand, said:
Thailand is honoured to serve as Co-Chair of the ASEAN-OECD Good Regulatory Practices Network alongside the United Kingdom at a time when governments are seeking to deliver better regulation in an increasingly complex world. Regulatory simplification is not simply about reducing requirements; it is about making regulations clearer, more effective and easier for citizens and businesses to navigate. Through the Network, Thailand looks forward to working with ASEAN and OECD partners to advance good regulatory practices, strengthen regulatory cooperation and support reforms that promote innovation, investment and sustainable growth across the region.
Since its establishment in 2015, the ASEAN-OECD GRPN has become a leading platform for international regulatory cooperation, enabling policymakers to exchange practical experiences and advance good regulatory practices across the region. The 11th Meeting highlights the continued partnership between ASEAN, the OECD and the UK in promoting regulatory excellence and regulatory simplification.
Under the ASEAN-UK Economic Integration Programme (EIP), the UK continues to support knowledge sharing, innovation and international collaboration, helping governments develop transparent, effective and business-friendly regulatory systems that support growth, competitiveness and better outcomes for citizens.
Source: www.gov.uk
