APEC Ministers Call for Openness and Connectivity Amid Economic Challenges

Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) ministers converged in Gyeongju, South Korea, to navigate the complexities of the global trade landscape. As protectionism and weakening trade trends pose significant challenges, the ministers sought to strike a balance between promoting growth and ensuring co-prosperity. In the face of economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, climate disruption, and demographic shifts, the ministers reaffirmed APEC's purpose as a driving force for regional openness, connectivity, and growth.

Key Takeaways:

• The Asia-Pacific region remains the engine of global growth, accounting for over 60% of the global economy and 50% of world trade.
• APEC ministers acknowledged the need to address demographic shifts, technological disruptions, and reconfigured trade flows in the region.
• The spirit of openness and trade, deeply rooted in the region's history, is seen as the key to navigating future challenges, according to Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo.
• The ministers recognized that rising protectionism and weakening trade trends require collective efforts to maintain regional connectivity and promote growth.
• Home to more than 40% of the world's population, APEC is home to some of the world's fastest-growing economies, including but not limited to China, Indonesia, Japan, and South Korea.

Statistics:

• Over 60% of the global economy is accounted for by the Asia-Pacific region.
• The region contributes to 50% of the world's trade.
• APEC member economies account for more than 40% of the world's population.

Sources:

• Xinhua via COMTEX
• COMTEX_469915921/2084/2025-10-30T13:26:04
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