The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade met in Jeju, Korea this May under the theme “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow”. The ministers worked together to produce a joint statement and a renewed commitment to cooperation and innovation. Here are our ten key takeaways from the meeting:
1. Consensus achieved amid complexity
In an increasingly fragmented global trade environment, the ministers’ ability to issue a joint statement is no small feat. Despite debates around trade reform and growing tensions in the sector, APEC reaffirmed its value as a consensus-building platform where diverse economies can unite around shared goals. The ministers committed to advancing the Putrajaya Vision 2040 and acknowledged APEC’s continuing role as the premier forum for regional economic cooperation.
2. Digital transformation takes centre stage
Digital transformation remains a top regional priority. Ministers pledged to bridge digital divides, expand digital infrastructure, and build a safer, more inclusive digital ecosystem. APEC economies are working toward implementing the APEC Internet and Digital Economy Roadmap (AIDER), with a focus on interoperability, trusted data flows, and paperless trade. As the roadmap nears completion in 2025, discussions have begun on how to continue its momentum into the future.
3. AI is reshaping trade
Artificial Intelligence featured prominently at the summit, particularly in its potential to streamline customs and trade facilitation. Korea previewed its “ABC” AI strategy: Advancing the AI transformation, Building capacity, and Cultivating investment. Ministers highlighted AI’s transformative impact on trade, encouraged information-sharing on domestic AI policies, and backed voluntary exchanges on trade-related AI standards, in coordination with international bodies.
4. Circular economy in focus
The transition to a circular economy is gathering pace across APEC. Ministers endorsed initiatives aimed at reducing waste and increasing resource efficiency. A workshop scheduled for August will explore plastic recycling in automotive and home appliance sectors, alongside discussions on chemical recycling, standardisation, and certification frameworks – key steps towards aligning regional efforts on sustainability.
5. Strengthening supply chains
Ministers stressed the urgency of enhancing supply chain resilience in the face of ongoing disruptions. APEC economies reaffirmed the importance of implementing the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement and welcomed the third phase of the Supply Chain Connectivity Framework Action Plan. A workshop in Incheon later this year will zero in on chemical sector supply chain challenges, signalling a sector-specific approach to resilience.
6. Private sector must be involved
Repeated throughout the joint statement was the call for meaningful private sector engagement. From AI and digital policy to investment facilitation and data governance, APEC underscored the role of public-private collaboration in designing effective, future-ready trade policies. The APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) was among the summit’s key participants, reinforcing the importance of private sector insights in shaping trade outcomes.
7. Reaffirmed support for the WTO
Amid calls for reform, APEC economies reaffirmed the WTO’s central role in the global trading system. Ministers backed efforts to deliver a successful 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in 2026 and encouraged progress on issues such as fisheries subsidies, electronic commerce, and investment facilitation.
8. Advancing Good Regulatory Practices (GRP)
APEC reiterated the importance of transparent, predictable, and efficient regulation. Ministers encouraged the adoption of GRPs to reduce unnecessary trade barriers while maintaining sound regulatory standards. Progress continues on aligning standards and conformity assessments, with an emphasis on innovation and collaboration across economies.
9. Trade tensions are hurting growth
Tariffs and trade restrictions were flagged as a growing threat to economic performance. APEC warned that these tensions are dampening export prospects and cutting trade growth forecasts. The statement highlighted the urgent need for cooperation and rule-based frameworks to restore predictability and trust in the global trading system.
10. APEC remains a vital institution
Despite shifting geopolitics and economic headwinds, APEC reaffirmed its role as a cornerstone of regional collaboration. The ministers emphasised APEC’s unique value in bringing together diverse economies to tackle cross-border challenges, from AI governance and digital integration to supply chain security and sustainable development.
The 2025 APEC Trade Ministers’ Meeting showed that while global uncertainty remains, regional cooperation is not only possible; it is also essential. With growing participation from the private sector and a forward-looking agenda, APEC continues to evolve to meet the demands of a dynamic trade landscape.
At Access Partnership, we have a longstanding relationship with APEC, working across the organisation and region to support clients in navigating the complexities of local, regional, and global policy. With unparalleled access and contacts throughout the Asia-Pacific, we monitor developments in real time to give you the insight and influence needed to stay ahead. Get in touch to find out how we can support your policy and market entry goals across the region and beyond.
