China, Japan, and South Korea pledged to strengthen trade cooperation during a high-level economic meeting in Seoul on Sunday, signaling a unified push to stabilize supply chains and accelerate regional economic integration amid global uncertainties. Ministers from the three nations agreed to deepen collaboration under multilateral frameworks like the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), while committing to advance free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations.
Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, South Korea's Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun, and Japan's Economy Minister Yoji Muto emphasized the need to counter protectionism and uphold the rules-based trading system. Key initiatives include enhancing supply chain resilience, expanding digital and green economy partnerships, and fostering a favorable business environment for cross-border investments.
Minister Wang highlighted the trio’s “geographic proximity and interconnected economies” as drivers of mutual growth. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to high-quality development and open markets, urging joint efforts to “inject strong impetus into global economic prosperity.” Analysts predict the trilateral pact could reshape Asia’s trade dynamics, offering new opportunities for businesses navigating geopolitical headwinds.
