China and the Republic of Korea (ROK) have pledged to expedite negotiations for the second phase of their bilateral free trade agreement, following high-level talks between commerce ministers in Beijing this week. The move signals strengthened economic coordination between the two neighbors amid evolving global trade dynamics.
Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao and ROK Minister of Trade Kim Jung-kwan reaffirmed commitments to implement leadership-level consensus during their December 13 meeting. Both sides emphasized the need to conclude negotiations promptly while expanding collaboration in emerging industries and regional supply chain networks.
Wang highlighted China's renewed focus on high-standard economic openness following the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, which recently outlined the country's development roadmap through 2030. The minister proposed creating new growth drivers through subnational partnerships and enhanced cross-border investment frameworks.
Kim confirmed Seoul's willingness to align with Beijing in stabilizing industrial chains and improving trade remedy dialogues. The ROK also endorsed China's upcoming role as host of the 2026 APEC Leaders' Meeting, offering to share organizational expertise from its own experience hosting international summits.
Analysts suggest the accelerated FTA talks could help mitigate regional economic uncertainties while creating opportunities in green technology and digital trade sectors. Both nations agreed to maintain close coordination through multilateral platforms including WTO and RCEP frameworks.
