nonetheless, the AEC is still the best strategic response by the region in preserving its competitive strength. over the years, work has intensified at varying levels to implement the elements of the AEC.while there have been important and positive achievements, more efforts are still needed to achieve the integration targets. as the AEC draws near, and following the priorities set by the leaders in the phnom penh agenda during the 20th summit in april 2012, it has become clear that countries need to redouble their efforts and take active steps to realise the AEC by 2015.