Abstract

ASEAN countries, particularly the newer ASEAN states, are dependent on migration for economic growth as well as it being one ready solution to problems of economic development. However, this arrangement is at risk due to the parallel challenges of anti-globalisation and the risks of job replacement through technological advancement such as Artificial Intelligence, labour automation, and 3D printing. In recent times, there has been a global resurgence of nationalism and anti-immigrant hostility. Coupled with the Eastward shift of global economic growth and the advancement of technologies could make certain segments of the labour market obsolete. This may impact on ASEAN’s strategy of being the production base for global supply chains and its dependency on labour migration for economic development. To avert a potential labour market crisis, the ASEAN member states should maintain trade openness as well as explore alternative economic opportunities such as investing in manpower training and R&D in the agriculture sector.