India's CA body aims to strengthen its regional alliance in Southeast Asia

President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India ICAI Prasanna Kumar D also emphasised the need for professionals to build stronger capabilities in technology-led business environments, where rapid execution, digital transformation, and fast-evolving market dynamics are reshaping global commerce.

The Singapore chapter of the ICAI is focussing on developing a deeper understanding of tax structures, regulatory frameworks, and cross-border financial management in an era of growing trade flows and technology-driven business practices, the body's president has said. President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) Prasanna Kumar D also emphasised the need for professionals to build stronger capabilities in technology-led business environments, where rapid execution, digital transformation, and fast-evolving market dynamics are reshaping global commerce. Kumar's comments came as the professional body's Singapore Chapter is aiming at strengthening its 'Regional Alliance' across Southeast Asia even as he welcomed the growing collaboration between ICAI and the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA). Kumar, who is in Singapore to participate in the ASEAN Federation of Accountants (AFA) meetings held on Friday, further underlined ICAI's expanding regional and global presence of Indian CAs. He emphasised on the need for professionals ''to build stronger capabilities in technology-led business environments, where rapid execution, digital transformation, and fast-evolving market dynamics are reshaping global commerce.'' Kumar emphasised ICAI's role as one of the world's largest accounting bodies and a global knowledge powerhouse committed to shaping future-ready professionals. He spoke about strengthening international collaborations, enhancing global mobility for members, and positioning Indian Chartered Accountants as trusted leaders in an increasingly interconnected economic landscape. He further highlighted ICAI's ongoing engagement with ISCA, including possible pathways towards a Mutual Recognition Agreement. In another announcement, Kumar shared the inclusion of a Singapore-based member in one of the ICAI Central Council Committees, reinforcing the Institute's growing global integration and recognition of overseas members. Satish Kumar Gupta, Central Council Member, ICAI, and Sanjay Gattani, chairperson of the ICAI Singapore Chapter, also spoke on the occasion. Gattani emphasised Singapore's role as a strategic gateway to ASEAN and the strong opportunities available for Indian Chartered Accountants across the region, while also advocating a balanced approach to success through his H2O philosophy - Health, Happiness and Opulence. The event witnessed participation from over 150 members, industry leaders, and regional dignitaries, including delegates from the Malaysian ICAI Chapter, reflecting the Singapore Chapter's strengthening ASEAN footprint.