As the Asia-Pacific region navigates slowing trade growth and geopolitical uncertainties, the 2025 APEC Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea, has set a roadmap for sustainable development under the theme "Connect, Innovate, Prosper." The event highlights China’s push for institutional collaboration, digital transformation, and inclusive growth to counter fragmentation risks.
Connectivity Through Institutional Alignment
Amid global supply chain shifts, APEC members are prioritizing rule harmonization. Upgrades to the China–ROK Free Trade Agreement aim to expand digital trade and investment, while the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) framework is streamlining cross-border standards and reducing transaction costs. China advocates for "green channels" for critical materials and contingency mechanisms to stabilize industrial chains, emphasizing that "de-risking" should not undermine cooperation.
Innovation as a Growth Engine
The Republic of Korea’s focus on AI and semiconductor innovation aligns with China’s Global AI Governance Action Plan, which promotes an open, inclusive ecosystem. Proposed initiatives include cross-border computing networks, joint R&D in intelligent manufacturing, and regulatory frameworks for data security. Experts stress that shared technological progress—not barriers—will drive regional productivity.
Prosperity via Cultural and Green Economies
APEC’s inaugural High-Level Dialogue on Cultural and Creative Industries underscores the role of cultural tourism and digital copyrights in inclusive growth. China’s investments in new energy infrastructure and cross-border e-commerce are stabilizing industrial expectations while boosting green demand. Collaborative projects in film, performing arts, and SME support aim to broaden economic participation.
By advancing rule alignment, AI cooperation, and cultural-economic integration, APEC 2025 seeks to transform regional challenges into opportunities—a vision China and its partners are shaping through pragmatic, open policies.
