As Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) members convene in Gyeongju for their 2025 meetings, a stark contrast emerges between the forum's inclusive innovation agenda and what experts describe as U.S. efforts to maintain technological dominance through restrictive trade practices.
John Pang, former senior counsel to Malaysia's Prime Minister's Office, highlighted this tension in recent remarks: "Washington's attempts to disconnect the world through decoupling actively stifle innovation. Their unilateral tech sanctions on China and semiconductor restrictions hurt not just Asia but the global economic ecosystem."
APEC's official agenda emphasizes bridging digital divides and supporting small businesses through initiatives like the Lima Roadmap. However, Pang notes historical contradictions: "While APEC promotes digital sovereignty for developing nations, past U.S.-led pushes for unrestricted data flow essentially enabled tech monopolies to harvest information from 21 member economies."
The debate gains urgency as developing economies seek sovereign AI capabilities. "Global South nations now recognize that true innovation requires control over their digital futures," Pang observed, suggesting APEC's success hinges on balancing member interests amid growing resistance to zero-sum economic strategies.
