New Rules of Engagement: The Strategic Rise of Government Affairs in Asia

Asia is no longer just a “growth market”—it’s a battleground of shifting policies, rising regulatory risk, and geopolitical tension. From supply chain overhauls to sudden rule changes, global firms are navigating a policy minefield—one that’s becoming more complex, contested, and fast-moving by the day.

Governments across the region are becoming more assertive, and long-standing rules of thumb are being rewritten as they compete more overtly for investment, prioritise domestic rewards, and seek control over emerging technologies. In this new environment, regulatory risk is not just a compliance issue—it’s a strategic one.

But with disruption comes opportunity. Businesses that can anticipate change, build trusted relationships, and engage effectively with governments stand to shape the rules as much as navigate them.

This report draws on a new survey of senior Government Affairs professionals across Asia, combined with Oxford Economics’ own economic insights. It uncovers how leading multinationals are responding to this shifting policy landscape—and why the Government Affairs function is fast becoming one of the most important levers for business resilience and influence.

Download the report to explore:

• The Government Engagement Maturity Curve—and how to move up it
• What’s behind Asia’s new era of policy assertiveness—and what it means for international firms
• What keeps Government Affairs leaders up at night in 2025
• How the best teams are shifting from firefighting to foresight