The document discusses the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) which will be established in 2015. It provides background on ASEAN countries and outlines the goals of the AEC to create a single market and production base. This will involve removing tariffs and other trade barriers, and allowing the free flow of goods, services, investment, capital and skilled labor. The AEC is expected to benefit businesses through increased trade and investment opportunities, but will also increase competition which businesses will need to prepare for. Food industries may face both opportunities from a larger market and challenges from greater competition in the AEC.