Dynamics and Prospects of ASEAN and GCC Multisectoral Cooperation: From Regional Diplomacy to Economic Integration

Abstract

As seen by the creation of institutions like ASEAN and the GCC, regional cooperation has
emerged as a key factor in economic growth and stability. Even though both regions have
engaged in organized communication since 2007, there is still a lack of institutional integration,
which limits the growth of trade and economic connections. The dynamics and future of
ASEAN-GCC collaboration are examined in this study using a qualitative descriptive literature
review based on scholarly sources, IO reports, and official documents. The results show that
collaboration has progressively grown into a multisectoral structure. The foundation of the
partnership is energy, with the GCC investing in low-carbon and renewable technology in the
area and supplying hydrocarbons to meet ASEAN's demand. Trade and investment flows are
interdependent. ASEAN exports electronics, machinery, and agricultural products, whilst the
GCC provides oil, petrochemicals, and cash for infrastructure initiatives. The liberal
institutionalist presumption that interdependence promotes stability is reflected in the
continued expansion of participation through education, cultural exchanges, and crisis
management cooperation. However, a number of difficulties still exist. Investment flows
continue to be unbalanced, comprehensive free trade agreements have not been reached, and
concerns about migrant worker protection underscore the limitations of institutional
frameworks. Notwithstanding these obstacles, member state-to-state bilateral efforts maintain
collaboration and offer useful paths toward strengthening ties. All things considered,
ASEAN-GCC relations show a trend of increasing reliance with a great deal of room to develop
into more formalized institutional and economic integration.