Infrastructure Tracker

Spot electricity prices have reached a 2026 high, influenced by fuel costs and real-time power supply and demand. This development could impact household electricity bills.

The International Energy Agency notes the Philippines' energy transition is gaining momentum, with accelerated rollout of renewables and growing efforts to harness nuclear power.

ANZ Research warns that weak infrastructure spending could prolong the Philippines' economic slowdown into 2027, citing a smaller allocation for capital outlays.

Cả Group has proposed to the Ministry of Construction to expand 350km of the North-South Expressway to six lanes using the public-private partnership (PPP) method.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, will participate in the Australia-ASEAN Business Forum 2026 in Adelaide, Australia, on September 29-30, 2026, delivering keynote remarks.

Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) plans to manufacture the electric GLC SUV locally, using domestically sourced components to strengthen the auto supply chain and EV production in Thailand.

The 1,200-megawatt Ilijan power plant in Batangas, Philippines, is once again receiving indigenous natural gas from the Malampaya deep water gas-to-power project.

The inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026™ opened at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia, on September 25, 2026, marking a new milestone in ASEAN-FIFA cooperation.

The ASEAN Secretary-General, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, attended the Opening Ceremony of the International Conference on Combating Online Scams in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on September 23, 2026. This relates to digital infrastructure security.

Aboitiz Economic Estates was named Best Industrial Developer and Ajoya Cabanatuan Best Masterplanned Development at the 2026 Philippines Real Estate Awards, recognizing infrastructure development.

Laos and Vietnam are advancing major transport, energy, and mining projects to strengthen economic links and implement bilateral agreements.

The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion 2026 will bring 50 Taiwan Excellence-awarded products from 24 Taiwanese brands across four key categories to Manila.

Opinion piece discussing how renewable energy deals, while appearing cheap, can expose data centers to price shocks, suggesting the need for robust clean power portfolios to mitigate risks.

Thai automotive supply chain businesses are urging the government to increase excise tax on imported EVs to protect domestic manufacturers and encourage local production, according to the Federation of Thai Industries.

COE premiums in Singapore remain high, with no dips expected in 2026. The Land Transport Authority is considering increased differentiation of car categories, impacting vehicle ownership infrastructure.

Jalan Magazine in Malaysia will be closed for 21 days from Sept 14 for road widening and utility relocation works related to the LRT Mutiara Line project.

Vehicle sales in the Philippines are projected to reach 600,000 units by 2030, according to Toyota Motor Philippines Corp.

Singapore has allocated $3.7 billion from green-bond proceeds for electric rail expansion in FY2025, bringing the total allocation from green bonds for JRL and CRL to $9.3 billion.

Singapore's logistics sector is improving efficiency through innovation, including vertical trailer stacking, rapid EV battery swaps, and enhanced inventory forecasting, supported by EnterpriseSG.

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia said the country has yet to join the ASEAN Power Grid, as negotiations over electricity prices are ongoing.

Indonesia has yet to sign an agreement related to the ASEAN Power Grid (APG), stating it is prepared to do so once the terms are considered mutually beneficial.

Regional energy leaders are pushing to realize the $764-billion power grid, advocating for stronger ties between nations to advance the ASEAN Power Grid rollout.

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia stated that Indonesia has not yet signed the ASEAN Power Grid (APG), an integrated grid system among ASEAN member nations.

ACEN Corp. has abandoned plans for two solar power projects in Quezon and Zambales, Philippines, due to various land-related challenges.

Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) is reinforcing water infrastructure in its Lio Estate in Palawan to support El Nido's growth as a tourism and lifestyle destination.

The National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) is open to fast-tracking the Mindoro-Panay interconnection project to boost power supply in the Visayas.

Petronas LNG, the liquefied natural gas (LNG) flagship of Malaysia's national energy conglomerate, is expanding its role from a gas exporter to a full-service energy solutions partner across Southeast Asia.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN participated in the AEM-USTR Consultation in Manila, Philippines, discussing economic cooperation and progress on the 2025-2026 ASEAN-US work plan.

Japan plans to use its Official Development Assistance (ODA) to help upgrade Indonesia's fishing ports and enable coast guard patrol vessels to make stops.

State-run Land Bank of the Philippines was recognized with the Karlsruhe Sustainable Finance Award for Outstanding Sustainable Project Financing for its role in advancing the country's energy security and clean energy transition.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN delivered remarks at the ASEAN-China Environmental Cooperation Forum, highlighting four key areas to advance sustainable environmental efforts and calling for advancing implementation of the ASEAN-China Environmental Cooperation Strategy (2026-2030)

Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. urged the government to allow hybrid electric vehicles and gas-powered cars in new Transport Network Vehicle Service slots.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, toured the pavilions of the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) in Nanning, China, marking his fourth participation in the event.

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with representatives of Chinese media outlets on the sidelines of the 23rd CAEXPO in Nanning, China on September 17, 2026.

Malaysia's Petronas is prepared to supply Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to the Philippines to help address power supply constraints, as the Philippines grapples with energy security challenges.

Infrastructure and transport advocates are urging the Philippine government to limit the Toll Regulatory Board's (TRB) authority to regulating toll rates, stripping its power to issue tollway extensions.

A portion of the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway in Malaysia will be closed periodically for 45 days starting tomorrow to facilitate construction work for the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Mutiara Line.

Major infrastructure projects advancing in southern Vietnam are causing investors to assess properties by their access to employment, industrial, logistics, and service hubs.

The Economy and Development (ED) Council, chaired by President Marcos, approved changes to the North-South Commuter Railway's (NSCR) operations and maintenance and the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) public-private partnership (PPP) projects.

Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines has started importing finished classic Coke products from Indonesia to increase domestic supply and meet growing demand in the Philippines.

Vietnam's durian industry is pivoting from volume growth to sustainable value chains, better quality, and diversified markets due to climbing output and stricter importing market quality requirements.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN met with China's National Energy Administration Administrator to discuss advancing practical ASEAN-China cooperation on energy security.

A portion of the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway in Penang will be periodically closed for 45 days to facilitate construction work for the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Mutiara Line.

Thailand's Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) reports a surge in complaints related to digital platform services, despite an overall decline in online complaints during the first eight months of 2026.

Singapore's precision medicine sector is advancing patient care through sharper diagnoses and treatments, supported by EnterpriseSG. This involves developing technologies for more accurate medical diagnoses and faster matching for clinical trials.

A portion of the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway will close periodically for 45 days starting Sept 16 to facilitate construction work for the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Mutiara Line.

Singapore and Thailand are launching a two-year initiative to overcome obstacles for the ASEAN Power Grid by 2028, with Singapore committed to its climate targets.

Vietnam's seafood imports from Canada have jumped nearly 40% over the past two years, driven by rising demand for competitively priced lobster, snow crab, and oysters.

Thai Energy Minister Akanat Promphan stated at Gastech 2026 that energy security has become a global priority, with natural gas central to securing sufficient supplies and supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, will undertake a working visit to Beijing, China, on 15-16 September 2026, at the invitation of the Chinese government.

The Philippines anticipates importing a higher percentage of broken rice, facing tighter global supply due to increased demand from China and other importers, potentially leading to stiffer competition.

Amara Sanctuary Sentosa, a resort hotel on Singapore's Sentosa Island, is reportedly being marketed for sale at an indicative price of S$200 million ($158 million).

Jalan Magazine in Penang will be closed for 21 days starting September 14 to facilitate road widening and utility relocation works for the LRT Mutiara project.

Nam A Bank has secured a US$30 million credit facility from Proparco to expand lending for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and other green projects in Vietnam.

Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) outlines a five-phase roadmap for the country's first small modular reactor (SMR), a 300-megawatt unit, aiming for commercial operation by 2037.

SM Offices and Visa Inc. have signed an expansion lease, supporting Visa's expanded Philippine operations.

Jalan Magazine in George Town will close for 21 days from Sept 14 for road widening and utility relocation works related to the LRT Mutiara Line project.

Vietnam Airlines has signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus to purchase five A350-900 jets, confirming earlier reports.

The IAI Task Force and ASEAN Partners reaffirmed support for Work Plan V (2026-2030) during their 16th Consultation Meeting in Jakarta, aiming to narrow the development gap within ASEAN.

Jalan Magazine in Malaysia will close for 21 days from September 14 to October 5 to facilitate road widening and utility relocation works for the Mutiara Line LRT project.

Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah in Malaysia will undergo a 322-day traffic diversion from September 12, 2026, to July 31, 2027, for piling and permanent works related to the Mutiara Line LRT project.

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has approved P1.75 billion for new port construction and infrastructure upgrades, including two terminal upgrades in Luzon and Mindanao and a new port in Visayas, to scale up maritime infrastructure.

Port operator Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) has deployed more rubber-tired gantry cranes at Manila South Harbor to increase capacity, building on recent expansion projects.

The US Trade and Development Agency and New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. signed an agreement to modernize security screening at the Philippines' main international airport, NAIA.

CKPower's Hinghoi Project, a power producer, received two awards from AREA 2026 for the fifth consecutive year, affirming its commitment to sustainable social and environmental development with local communities.

Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah in Penang will undergo a 322-day traffic diversion from Sept 12, 2026, to July 31, 2027, to facilitate piling and permanent works for the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN delivered a keynote speech at the 11th Belt and Road Summit in Hong Kong, highlighting ASEAN's transformation agenda and connectivity priorities, underscoring strengthened regional cooperation.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, highlighted regional connectivity and economic cooperation during a media interview on the sidelines of the 11th Belt and Road Summit in Hong Kong, China, on September 9, 2026.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN delivered remarks at the Ninth ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture and Forestry, emphasizing the importance of strengthening ASEAN-India cooperation on food security.

Thailand's power development plan proposes 9,000 megawatts of small modular reactors (SMRs) to enter the nuclear era and combat global warming.

Singapore businesses will gain easier access to government support via the new AI-powered BizSG portal, which aims to simplify interactions with the government.

Gat Lebuh Cecil in Malaysia will close for three days to facilitate works for the Mutiara Line LRT project. The closure affects a stretch leading to the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway.

NEC and UNDP signed an MoU to use AI for conservation and climate action, including improving the resilience of AI and digital infrastructure.

The high cost and unreliability of electricity supply in the Philippines are cited as major deterrents for foreign investors in the manufacturing sector and impact local export competitiveness.

Centara Hotels and Resorts plans expansion into second-tier cities like Ratchaburi, driven by demand from new events and recreational facilities, supporting both leisure and business tourism.

Thailand has paused construction on 49 data centers due to concerns over power consumption and local community impacts, as the country plans new regulations for the sector.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN delivered a keynote address at the 2026 DEFA Foresight and Strategic Cooperation Pre-Summit Forum in Hong Kong, outlining ASEAN's vision for regional integration and economic cooperation.

Singapore, the richest country in Asia by GDP per capita, collected a record US$76.9 billion (SGD97.3 billion) in tax revenue in the 2025-2026 financial year due to stronger economic activity and consumer spending.

Indonesia reopens Jakarta's main airport and several other hubs after days of volcanic ash closures, though two of the original eight airports remain shut.

Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) will study the terms and financial viability of the proposed MRT 3 Capacity Expansion, Operations and Maintenance Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

First Metro Securities Brokerage Corp. sees a good opportunity for stock market players to buy shares of Megawide Construction Corp. as the market has dipped, potentially improving the construction firm's outlook.

Volcanic ash grounded flights between Singapore's Changi Airport and Indonesia's Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta Airport, causing travel chaos and issues for passengers due to conflicting airline notices.

H.E. Marina Rafti presented her Letter of Credence to the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat on September 2, 2026, marking her official role as the Ambassador of the EU to ASEAN.

The Makati Business Club predicts that Philippine economic growth may fall below the government's 2026 target, but suggests accelerated government spending could support growth.

Samsung's four factories in Vietnam reported combined profits of US$2.31 billion in the first six months, representing a 23.5% increase year-on-year. This indicates significant manufacturing activity.

Thailand's ambition to become a regional digital and industrial hub faces resilience challenges, with reliable energy, decarbonisation, and investment frameworks crucial for future competitiveness.

The Philippine economy is projected to grow above four percent in the fourth quarter, supported by a rebound in infrastructure spending and stronger demand, according to the University of Asia and the Pacific.

Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGen) has started selling electricity from a portion of the P200-billion MTerra Solar project, which is described as the world's largest integrated solar facility.

Rapid expansion of Personal Equity and Retirement Accounts (PERA) is widening a channel for long-term domestic savings that can support businesses and infrastructure, despite the program remaining small.

Passengers on the LRT Shah Alam line will begin paying fares tomorrow after six weeks of free travel. Rapid KL advised ensuring fare cards have at least RM5.

Portions of the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway and Gat Lebuh Cecil in Malaysia will temporarily close from September 7-10 for construction work on the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit.

The Philippines is seeking to unlock approximately P788 billion (US$12.6 billion) worth of untapped geothermal energy potential to regain its global standing in geothermal power.

San Miguel Aerocity Inc. states its airport project in Bulacan includes long-term flood mitigation measures, denying claims linking the New Manila International Airport (NMIA) to recent flooding.

Gat Lebuh Cecil in Malaysia will be closed for three days from tomorrow until Sept 7 to facilitate utility diversion works for the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN met with the CEO of PT Krakatau Steel to discuss the Indonesian steel industry and its integrated industrial role. The meeting took place at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat.

Metro Pacific Water plans to invest P23 billion over the next five years to upgrade its water service infrastructure in the Philippines and Vietnam.

UMC is investing $6.4 billion to build a new semiconductor fabrication plant in Singapore, aiming to support the AI industry. The expansion will also double its skilled workforce from 1,200.

High electricity bills are driving Filipino families to adopt solar energy solutions. This indicates a growing trend in renewable energy adoption and infrastructure development in the Philippines.

The ASEAN Defence Senior Officials' Meeting (ADSOM) and ADSOM-Plus convened via videoconference, hosted by the Philippines on 26-27 August 2026. The meetings brought together ADSOM Leaders and senior defence officials from ASEAN and Plus Countries.

Singapore's inaugural RIE2025 report card reveals business R&D spending increased by 64% to S$9 billion, with private-sector participation growing but gaps remaining in commercializing research.