Bain & DBS – Southeast Asia Outlook, 2024-34

The Bain & DBS Southeast Asia Outlook report for 2024-34 highlights the potential for Southeast Asia to outgrow China in the next decade, despite global challenges. The changing landscape of the world requires governments to adapt, with the rise of ultra-competitive manufacturing and innovation in China leading to de-industrialization in many developing countries. Traditional priorities to boost growth in Southeast Asia include investing in education, infrastructure, attracting investment, promoting competition, and enhancing government institutions. Strategies for growth will require policy intervention, such as investing in future sectors, fostering tech-enabled disruptors, expanding capital markets, promoting green initiatives, and supporting multilateral initiatives. While opportunities for integration are important, focusing on domestic levers will be crucial for driving growth in Southeast Asia.