HERE’S WHY ABIS 2026 IS WORTH WATCHING (EVEN IF YOU’RE NOT A BUSINESS OWNER)
REASON 1: TOP CEOs AND GLOBAL LEADERS WILL BE THERE.
The ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (ABIS) 2026 is likely to be one of the biggest business events of the year, so there’s a good chance that 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 be held 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 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. These discussions can affect job opportunities for young professionals, the technology people use, and even the small businesses in their communities.
ASEAN-BAC Chairman Joey Concepcion said this year’s ABIS will aim 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 presented to ASEAN businesses with the potential to scale up across the region. The ASEAN Business Awards (ABA) have been presented since 2007, and past winners include Malaysia’s Mr. D.I.Y., the Philippines’ very own Potato Corner, and the innovative coconut farming company Lionheart Farms Phils. Their stories serve as inspiration for 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 ceremony is 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 issues 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.
