DBS and the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate Australian companies and investors’ expansion into Southeast Asia. Announced during the 10th anniversary of DBS Australia, this first-of-its-kind agreement between Austrade and a Singapore bank seeks to enhance investment links with Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
The MOU aligns with Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy, which aims to increase two-way trade and investment by 2040. With Southeast Asia projected to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2040, the agreement offers a strategic framework for Australian businesses to tap into this burgeoning market.
Under the MOU, DBS and Austrade will provide essential resources such as market insights and regulatory guidance. They will also facilitate connections with regional partners and industry leaders. DBS plans to leverage its expertise to offer advisory services, including market entry strategies and financial planning. An investor roundtable is scheduled for Q3 2025 in Sydney to showcase regional investment opportunities.
Austrade CEO Paul Grimes highlighted the region’s expanding middle class and demand for digital and sustainable development as key opportunities for Australian businesses. DBS CEO Tan Su Shan noted the bank’s decade-long commitment to supporting Australian economic priorities and emphasised the potential of Australia-Southeast Asia connectivity.
DBS established its Australia branch in 2015 to support business growth and facilitate investment flows between Australia and Asia. The bank has played a significant role in supporting Australia’s energy transition and digital infrastructure growth, as well as outbound investments by Australian businesses.
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