Author : Alip, Jaime Aristotle B.

Summary : The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) economic integration is fraught both with risks and opportunities. The current Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) work plan covers the years 2009 to 2015 and involves implementation of projects and policies that would narrow the development gap and accelerate economic integration of the newer members of ASEAN.

To be part of a bigger economic community that is ASEAN and creating an equal playing field for member nations is a challenging situation for developing countries especially those with weaker economies.

Microfinance institutions (MFIs), as providers of micro-edit to the country side and the poorer sectors of society, can play an important role in the economic integration process of ASEAN.