China and ASEAN took steps to widen trade through a fresh pact. The arrangement seeks to expand commerce between China and the 10-member bloc. Amid rising concern, analysts warned over growing Chinese investment, pointing to risks in deeper ties. In Australia, CPA Australia attended a Shenzhen economic exchange ahead of APEC. Singapore-based legal firm Wotton Kearney established a maritime claims unit. Vietnam confirmed a new alliance for its industrial fair.

Prior arguments contended that mainstream international trade theory ignores development concerns. That view highlights gaps in how trade benefits are measured across economies.