With the theme of “Collaborate. Act. Deploy. Building CCS pathways and value-chains” the Institute’s 2025 APAC CCS Forum brought together CCS proponents from across sectors to Malaysia for two days of robust discussions, knowledge exchange and networking.
CCS is not just a technological solution; it is a strategic imperative
Forum discussions got underway with an opening address from Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Economy, YB Dato Hajjah Hanifah Hajar Taib who spoke to the strategic role of CCS in achieving Malaysia’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050.
During her speech, the Minister highlighted that CCS is not just a technological solution, it is also a strategic imperative, providing a bridge between current economic realities and the low-carbon aspirations of the future.
She stressed that our efforts cannot be in isolation – that global challenges require global solutions – with strategic partnerships key to fostering innovation, sharing knowledge, and ensuring that developing economies are not left behind.
Setting the scene for the remainder of the Forum, the Minister then called on those present to move forward together, united by a shared purpose and collective responsibility.
CCS value-chains and cross-border CO2 transport and storage offer significant regional opportunity
Over the course of the Forum, it was evident that CCS value-chains and cross-border CO2 transport and storage offer a significant opportunity for Asia.
This was reiterated by representatives from leading companies in the CO2 transport and storage sector, who shared how the industry is developing rapidly in the region on the back of a growing number of projects – increasing demand for their services. Costs, however, remain relatively high and discussions centred around the need for further efficiencies in the value-chain to bring about reductions.
The growing number of projects in the region was also clearly demonstrated, with nine companies sharing updates on their projects, ranging from those in advanced development through to those fully operational. Across the region as a whole, there are now 66 projects in development, 2 in construction and 3 operational (as of 28 February 2025).
“Fit-for-Purpose” pathways needed for continued regional progress
Discussion at the Forum homed in on the key factors needed to successfully build CCS value-chains and pathways across Asia. Key among these factors was a “fit-for-purpose” approach that takes into consideration the unique needs of the region and parties involved.
Providing examples of this in practice, Forum participants heard from government representatives from Japan, Malaysia and Singapore on how CCS is being incorporated into government policies, programmes and initiatives to incentivise investment and also foster regional co-operation.
A panel discussion also focussed on the importance of bilateral and/or multilateral efforts, such as government-to-government agreements, and collaboration with regional countries to further support deployment of CCS and build pathways across the region.
Legal considerations span London Protocol to community engagement
In transporting and storing CO2 across jurisdictions and borders, legal considerations were also brought heavily into focus. Discussions covered the broad range of policy, regulatory and commercial aspects critical to success – from the London Protocol to the importance of engaging with stakeholders from the start of projects, especially indigenous communities.
Attracting investment for CCS projects is a key priority
For those governments across Asia that have moved to rapidly develop policies and regulatory frameworks supportive of CCS, the focus is now turning to financing of projects – with attracting investment a key priority. This is one of the most challenging aspects of most CCS projects.
Representatives from financial institutions and government agencies delivered presentations and took part in a panel discussion, which provided Forum participants with information on financing for CCS projects and business models for commercially viable CCS investments.
CCS technology on display
Taking a breather from panels and presentations, Forum participants were able to get “hands-on” and delve deeper into CCS technology, with the return of the highly popular “Technology Speed Networking Event.” Sponsored by LETA, 10 companies showcased their CCS technology to an enthusiastic group of Forum attendees.
A connected, collaborative Asia can be a world leader in cross-border CCS – unlocking a pathway to new markets and regional prosperity.
After two days of robust discussions, knowledge sharing and vibrant networking, the 2025 APAC CCS Forum drew to a close. The Institute’s Alex Zapantis, Strategic Adviser Emerging CCS Markets concluded by reinforcing:
- CCS deployment provides a significant opportunity for the region – especially in cross-border CO2 transport and storage.
- The region has more than enough storage resources to take advantage of demand for services, coupled with expertise and existing infrastructure that can be applied, adapted & repurposed for CCS.
- Across the region, governments and the private sector are actively and rapidly addressing hurdles to a fully-fledged regional CCS industry.
- By building on these advantages and existing regional collaborations – a connected, collaborative Asia can unlock a pathway to new markets and regional prosperity.
- These pathways and value-chains can help sustain and diversify Asia’s industries – benefitting jobs, economic growth and energy demands, while decarbonising industry.
The work is well underway, and the Institute is proud to be supporting the governments, companies and institutions making this possible.
Interested to know more about CCS progress in APAC? Read our APAC At a Glance Factsheet Series, for a brief overview of policy and legal developments, project numbers, key projects and key country collaborations.
