The meeting, which will begin on May 15 in South Korea, is taking place at a time marked by persistent global economic uncertainty. In addition to focusing on the host country’s priority areas, which include artificial intelligence (AI) and demographic challenges, member economies are expected to reaffirm the importance of a robust multilateral trading system.

Officials said that given the current difficulties in global trade, Malaysia will take advantage of the APEC platform to reassure its strong commitment to a transparent multilateral trading system.

This aligns with South Korea’s thematic priorities: connectivity through the Multilateral Trading System, innovation in AI to facilitate trade, and prosperity through Sustainable Trade, they added.

The agreement seeks to improve transparency, simplify procedures and create a more predictable environment for investors, especially in developing economies.

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