Asean Supply Chain Council Shifted to Permanent Status
The body transitioned to a permanent structure under the Asean Business Advisory Council to streamline regional trade.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in People
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The Asean Supply Chain Council has moved to a permanent operating structure to provide a consistent pathway for private-sector recommendations to reach regional leaders. The transition was finalized during the 3rd Asean Supply Chain Council Meeting.
Why it matters
Institutionalizing the council ensures continuity across changing leadership cycles and provides a formal channel for addressing trade barriers. This move allows for a more structured approach to identifying and resolving complex supply-chain challenges across the region.
The council held its 3rd meeting following its initial establishment on Sept 23, 2025. It now operates as a permanent fixture under the Asean Business Advisory Council.
The players
Michael Tan
Michael Tan is the newly appointed chairman of the Asean Supply Chain Council.
Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai
Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai is the outgoing chairman of the Asean Supply Chain Council.
Asean Business Advisory Council
The Asean Business Advisory Council is the regional body that now houses the permanent Asean Supply Chain Council.
The details
Michael Tan assumed the chairmanship of the council during the meeting held in Manila, succeeding Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai. The new permanent structure includes updated terms of reference designed to guide the organization's future operations.
Timeline
Sept 23, 2025: The Asean Supply Chain Council was established.
Sept 18, 2026: The council met in Manila, where the chairmanship transitioned.
Market Landscape
The move to a permanent structure reflects a broader trend of institutionalizing private-sector advisory groups within regional economic blocs. This formalization positions the council to better compete with other global trade advisory bodies by providing consistent, long-term advocacy.
Business leaders and trade participants can expect more consistent engagement and clearer communication channels regarding regional trade barriers. The permanent structure aims to reduce uncertainty by maintaining stable advocacy goals regardless of which individual holds the chair.
The takeaway
Formalizing advisory bodies helps businesses navigate complex regional regulations more effectively over time. Organizations that adopt permanent governance structures often achieve greater success in influencing policy than those relying on temporary mandates.
Further reading
Learn more about organizational leadership changes by visiting our People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NST Online.
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