AMRO Celebrates a Decade of Commitment to Regional Financial Cooperation

AMRO's 10-Year Journey: A Celebration of Resilience

On May 3, 2026, the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) celebrated its 10th anniversary during the 29th ASEAN+3 Finance Ministers' and Central Bank Governors' Meeting held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. This milestone underscores AMRO's continuous dedication to enhancing macroeconomic stability and financial cooperation within the ASEAN+3 region, which comprises the ten ASEAN countries along with China, Japan, and South Korea.

AMRO's Director and CEO Yasuto Watanabe emphasized the organization's substantial growth since it was officially recognized as an international entity in 2016. He reflected on how AMRO began with fewer than 40 employees and a limited range of publications. Today, it boasts a workforce exceeding 120 and is involved in robust analytical and policy work supporting a wide array of regional priorities. In his speech, Watanabe noted, "Our evolution mirrors that of the ASEAN+3 region, which has experienced significant transformation over the past decade, marked by deeper integration and heightened demand, accounting for 28% of global final demand."

However, Watanabe also acknowledged the challenges facing the region amid unprecedented global uncertainties, describing the current landscape as one filled with changes that have not been witnessed in a century. He stated, "In this environment, AMRO's role is clear. We need to identify risks early and provide timely, practical policy advice."

Watanabe highlighted AMRO's ongoing commitment to the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralisation (CMIM), a crucial regional financial safety net mechanism. He explained the importance of expanding technical assistance to strengthen policymaking across the region. The organization is also working on modernizing financial practices, including advancing cross-border digital payments to enhance financial connectivity within the ASEAN+3 framework.

Despite the evolving challenges, Watanabe reiterated a fundamental principle: resilience in the region cannot be achieved in isolation. He firmly stated that cooperation among member states is vital for navigating these turbulent times. Looking ahead, he reaffirmed AMRO's dedication to its core responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of delivering thorough and independent surveillance and supporting sound policy development.

Watanabe concluded by stating, "Together with our members, we will pursue the goal of building a more resilient and integrated ASEAN+3 region." This vision not only aims to fortify financial stability but also to foster deeper ties between member countries, enhancing their collective ability to withstand future uncertainties.

AMRO's journey as a knowledge hub and facilitator of financial cooperation since its inception highlights its essential role in promoting economic stability amidst a rapidly changing global landscape. The organization invites all stakeholders to celebrate this significant milestone and engage in its mission of fostering macroeconomic stability in the ASEAN+3 region.

For further insights into AMRO's activities and vision, watch their 10th-anniversary video or visit their official website for updates.