The Philippines is one of the world's biggest importers of the grain and its retail rice prices climbed further last month, with some varieties surging as much as 25% in some markets in and around the capital.

The meeting of foreign ministers comes as doubts mount over the credibility and unity of the bloc in dealing with the region's thorniest challenges.

Southeast Asia, a region with a collective population of 630 million – half of them under 30 – is one of TikTok's biggest markets in terms of user numbers.

Except for airplane wastewater testing by Malaysia and Thailand for the virus, the region's 11 nations will treat Chinese travellers like any others.

Southeast Asian countries tend to tread a careful line in trying to balance their relations with China and the US, wary of getting in between the super powers.

This comes days after a stop by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who has embarked on a more extensive tour of Southeast Asia in which he has highlighted Beijing's lavish infrastructure spending.

Anthony Albanese and his new foreign minister, Malaysian-born Penny Wong, will face an early test of diplomacy as they fly to Tokyo for a meeting of leaders of the Quad grouping of the US, India and Japan on Tuesday.

Still, the commitments pale in comparison to China's deep ties and influence.

The US is expected to 'focus on efforts to promote respect for human rights, the rule of law, and good governance', in addition to economic and strategic goals during the summit.

International airline bookings to Southeast Asia reached 38% of pre-pandemic levels by late March, according to travel firm ForwardKeys.

Malaysia received the highest ranking in the region due to its strong performance across all categories measured.

Falling Covid-19 infections and rising vaccine coverage will allow the country to revive its battered tourism sector with the Dec 1 reopening, authorities say.