China and ASEAN agreed to broaden commerce through a fresh pact. The arrangement seeks to expand commerce between China and the 10-member bloc. With growing unease, analysts cautioned over growing Chinese investment, highlighting risks in deeper ties. In Australia, CPA Australia took part in a Shenzhen economic exchange ahead of APEC. Singapore-based legal firm Wotton Kearney added a shipping disputes practice. Vietnam confirmed a new alliance for its industrial fair.

Past analysis contended that mainstream international trade theory overlooks development issues. That view highlights gaps in how trade benefits are measured across economies.