Frequently Asked Questions

The Asia Economic Research Institute (AERI) is a non-profit academic research and industry collaboration platform registered with multiple Asian governments. It specializes in Asian macroeconomic analysis, regional economic cooperation, industrial development, financial cooperation, and digital economy research. AERI operates specialized bodies including the Education Development Committee, the Digital Economy Committee, and the Economic and Trade Committee. Under the leadership of Advisor Dato' Loh Sua Yaw, Secretary-General Raymond Kuan, and researchers Chen Chao and Henry H. L. Law, AERI is committed to supporting the Belt and Road Initiative and promoting sustainable economic development and integration across Asia.

You can apply for AERI membership through the online application form on our Membership page. The application process involves four steps: (1) Submit your application online with supporting documents; (2) The Secretariat and relevant committees review your materials within 15–30 working days; (3) The Board of Directors votes on the application — approval requires a two-thirds majority; (4) Upon approval, both electronic and paper membership certificates are issued. We offer Individual Membership (for researchers and professionals with a master's degree or above), Institutional Membership (for universities, enterprises, and associations), and Honorary Membership (for outstanding contributors to Asian economic development). Individual members are currently exempt from membership fees.

AERI members enjoy comprehensive benefits across three categories: Resource Access — free access to annual reports, industry white papers, and public research outcomes; priority participation in closed-door seminars, international summits, and industry-academia collaboration projects. Voice Platform — publish research updates, enterprise case studies, or policy recommendations on AERI's platform; nominate and elect Board of Directors members. Service Support — individual members receive career development consulting and academic matchmaking; institutional members receive customized market research, technology transfer support, and brand exposure opportunities. Members also gain access to exclusive networking events with regional leaders and the opportunity to participate in AERI's advisory committees and delegation visits across Asia.

AERI publishes comprehensive investment cooperation guides covering key Asian and Middle Eastern markets. Our guides are available for free on the Investment page and include: Malaysia — Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Penang, and Miri/Sarawak; Southeast Asia — Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and the Philippines; Middle East — UAE and Saudi Arabia. Each guide provides detailed information on local investment policies, market conditions, regulatory frameworks, key industries, and cooperation opportunities. Members can also access hard copies and customized advisory services tailored to specific investment needs.

You can reach AERI through multiple channels: Email — chairman@aeri.org.cn for general inquiries, membership applications, and collaboration proposals; Online Form — use the contact form on our Contact page; Main Website — visit www.aeri.org.cn for additional information about our programs and activities. Our team typically responds to inquiries within 1–3 business days. For urgent matters or media inquiries, please indicate the urgency in your email subject line.

AERI covers the broader Asian region with strategic focus areas aligned with the Belt and Road Initiative and ASEAN economic cooperation. Our primary coverage includes: ASEAN — Malaysia (with offices and partnerships in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Penang, and Miri/Sarawak), Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and the Philippines; Middle East — the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; East Asia — China and the broader East Asian economic zone. We maintain research cooperation relationships with institutions throughout these regions and are continuously expanding our network to support cross-border investment and academic exchange.