Core Points - The signing of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 upgrade protocol is a significant milestone in cooperation, marking an expansion of economic integration into emerging areas such as digital, green, standards, and supply chain [1] - The upgrade is expected to enhance regional digital technology empowerment, green industry cooperation, and the interconnectivity of industrial and supply chains, promoting faster integration of the regional market [1] - Many enterprises from China and ASEAN countries are highly attentive to the protocol, recognizing the substantial business opportunities it presents [1] Summary by Sections - **Economic Integration**: The 3.0 upgrade extends economic integration beyond traditional trade and investment liberalization to include digital and green sectors, as well as standards and supply chains [1] - **Business Opportunities**: The protocol has generated significant interest among businesses, indicating a recognition of the potential benefits and opportunities it offers [1] - **Implementation Efforts**: The Ministry of Commerce is expediting domestic approval processes for the protocol and is working with ASEAN counterparts to ensure its early implementation [1]

Group 1 - The signing of the upgraded version 3.0 of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area agreement in Kuala Lumpur marks a significant enhancement in economic cooperation between China and ASEAN, reflecting their commitment to tackle global economic challenges together [1][3] - The upgrade from earlier versions focuses on institutional cooperation rather than just tariff reductions, incorporating nine new chapters including digital economy, green economy, and supply chain connectivity [1][2] - The transition from "quantitative expansion" to "qualitative improvement" is emphasized, showcasing the deepening of regional economic cooperation and the integration of trade liberalization with institutional governance [1][2] Group 2 - The 3.0 version addresses key global issues such as industrial chain transformation and sustainable economic development, promoting cooperation in emerging fields [2] - Experts anticipate that the upgrade will facilitate deeper integration in digitalization and green transformation, creating job opportunities and enhancing regional economic stability [2] - The agreement is seen as a response to rising trade protectionism and geopolitical conflicts, reinforcing the commitment to free trade and regional cooperation [3]