Integrating Natural Gas into the New ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement: Framework and Implementation

The adoption of the revised ASEAN Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security (APSA) in 2025 marks a significant step in strengthening regional energy security by explicitly recognising natural gas as a distinct strategic fuel. This study develops a practical framework for integrating natural gas into APSA implementation, addressing ASEAN’s growing exposure to supply disruptions arising from rising demand, declining domestic production, increasing import dependence, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and geopolitical risks. Drawing on international experience from Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the European Union, the framework proposes a structured approach encompassing baseline monitoring, critical shortage triggers, domestic demand-response measures, activation of a Co-ordinated Emergency Response Mechanism (CERM), and longer-term strategies for infrastructure development, supply diversification, and demand management. The study highlights the importance of enhanced regional co-ordination, data-sharing mechanisms, and institutional arrangements to improve preparedness and resilience. It provides ASEAN policymakers with a practical roadmap for operationalising natural gas security under APSA and strengthening the region’s ability to respond collectively to an increasingly uncertain global energy environment.