The 10th Asia-Europe Finance Ministers Meeting, to take place today, will address a recent grievance brought forth by Asian firms, according to Somchai Sujjapongse, the director-general of the Fiscal Policy Office.
The companies have asked Europe to simplify processes and allow them to acquire or merge with other European businesses. This issue is only a small part of the meeting’s main topic; stimulating trade and investment flows between the two regions.
Sujjapongse explained that while multinational companies from Europe have extensive history of investing in Asia, Asian investment in the region remains limited. He called on Europe to promote investment from various enterprises.
“There are some obstacles; for instance, Europe should make it much easier for Asian firms to take over, merge with or form joint ventures with local European firms.”