CPTPP Expansion Push: CPTPP ministers met virtually on 26 June, reaffirming support for an open, rules-based trade system and moving ahead with accession work—Costa Rica’s talks are largely concluded, while Uruguay’s accession working group is being asked to speed up; the bloc also began preparatory discussions with the UAE, the Philippines and Indonesia after identifying them as meeting its standards. SME Market Entry Support: Business Bridge Asia announced an expanded Southeast Asia market entry consulting push for SMEs, adding country-specific guidance and on-the-ground support across 14-plus markets. AI Regulation Watch: A look at the Philippines’ approach to AI rules says governance is moving, but remains scattered across agencies, while ASEAN’s AI guidance is still non-binding. Water and Energy Funding: The World Bank approved a $1.02b package for the Philippines to expand electricity and water access, including support for renewable energy and an offshore wind auction. South China Sea Tensions: The Philippines accused China of “insincerity and hypocrisy” after Beijing rejected Manila’s call to comply with the 2016 arbitral ruling, as a fresh near-Scarborough Shoal naval confrontation was reported. Haze Risk Alert: A regional “red alert” warns Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to prepare for severe transboundary haze later in 2026, with higher costs potentially pushing some land-clearing toward fire. Brunei-Linked Regional STI: Malaysia’s STI minister highlighted the need for a more integrated ASEAN science and innovation ecosystem, with Brunei chairing AMMSTI-22 discussions noted in coverage.