APEC Leaders Meet in South Korea Amid Global Economic Uncertainty

Strategic Insights

Oct 31, 2025 — 1 min read

APEC leaders gathered in South Korea on Friday for the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Meeting, aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and charting a common path to a sustainable future. President of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Lee Jae-myung emphasized the need for closer cooperation and solidarity in the region to overcome new challenges, including the technological revolution associated with artificial intelligence. The meeting is taking place against a backdrop of growing uncertainty in the international economic environment and the resurgence of protectionism and unilateralism.

Key Takeaways:

The APEC meeting is focused on promoting regional connectivity, innovation-driven growth, and a more sustainable future for the Asia-Pacific region, under the theme "Building a Sustainable Tomorrow."
President Lee Jae-myung noted that global economic uncertainty is growing, with trade and investment slowing, and the technological revolution associated with artificial intelligence bringing both challenges and opportunities.
APEC members face numerous structural challenges, including accelerating population aging, widening development gaps, uneven digital transformation, and the rising costs of transitioning to a green economy.
APEC members will collectively account for over 60 percent of global GDP in 2025, with economic growth in the region expected to reach 3.1 percent this year.
The APEC Regional Trends Analysis report warns that growth could slow to 2.9% in 2026 due to rising public debt and weakening temporary factors.
Founded in 1989, APEC has become a dynamic engine of economic growth and one of the most important regional forums in the Asia-Pacific region.

Statistics:

APEC members will collectively account for over 60 percent of global GDP in 2025.
Economic growth in the region is expected to reach 3.1 percent this year, with a forecast of 2.9% in 2026.
APEC Growth Forecast: 3.1% (2024), 2.9% (2026).

Sources:

Xinhua - State Council News, Oct. 31
APEC Regional Trends Analysis Report

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