REASON 1: TOP CEOs AND GLOBAL LEADERS WILL BE THERE
The ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (ABIS) 2026 is expected to be one of the biggest business events of the year, so there’s a big chance top CEOs and world leaders will be there.
That’s because its organizer, the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), was established to serve as a bridge between the ASEAN private sector and the region’s leaders. Also, because ASEAN is seen as an exciting area for growth, even non-ASEAN members are interested in the event, which will take place on November 14–15, 2026, at Okada Manila in Parañaque City.
REASON 2: IMPORTANT STUFF THAT’S NOT JUST FOR THE C-SUITE
You might think a business summit is only for C-suite executives, but ABIS has something to offer even if you’re a student, an employee, a young professional, or simply someone curious about what’s happening across Southeast Asia.
There will be discussions on artificial intelligence, the digital economy, energy and food security, regional trade, and investment opportunities, led by people who can make decisions that have real consequences for everyday ASEAN citizens. That means jobs available to young professionals, the technology people use, and even the small business on the corner.
ASEAN-BAC Chairman Joey Concepcion said this year’s ABIS will try to make the conversations accessible to more Filipinos. For the first time in its 23-year history, television and LED screens will be set up in partner malls so more Filipinos can watch the proceedings and follow discussions among regional business and government leaders. This gives people outside traditional business circles an opportunity to learn about the ideas, decisions, and opportunities in the region they live in.
REASON 3: IT’S WHERE YOU SPOT THE NEXT BIG ASEAN BUSINESS
During ABIS, awards will be handed out to ASEAN businesses that have the potential to scale up across the region. The ASEAN Business Awards (ABA) have been presented since 2007, and past winners include the Malaysian original Mr. D.I.Y. and the Philippines’ very own Potato Corner, as well as the innovative coconut farming company Lionheart Farms Phils. Their stories serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners looking for ideas on how to grow their own ventures.
The 2026 edition will feature the ASEAN Gender Equality and Economic Empowerment Award, which recognizes efforts to advance women’s leadership and economic participation.
The ASEAN Business Awards are scheduled for November 15, alongside the summit activities in the Philippines.
REASON 4: IT WILL PREPARE YOU FOR AN ASEAN FUTURE
ABIS and ABA offer different ways to learn about ASEAN beyond its culture and food, including where each country stands on matters such as AI, creative economies, MSMEs, and more.
You don’t have to run a company or manage investments to find these discussions useful. Whether you’re just starting a career, running a small business, or simply curious about how the region works, ABIS 2026 can help you better understand the broader community of ASEAN neighbors.
Visit the official ABIS 2026 website to learn more about the summit and register to attend.
