China and ASEAN moved to expand trade through a fresh pact. The arrangement is designed to increase commerce between China and the 10-member bloc. With growing unease, analysts warned over growing Chinese investment, highlighting risks in deeper ties. In Australia, CPA Australia joined a Shenzhen economic exchange ahead of APEC. Singapore-based legal firm Wotton Kearney established a marine disputes team. Vietnam confirmed a strategic partnership for its industrial fair.
Past analysis contended that mainstream international trade theory overlooks development issues. That view highlights gaps in how gains from trade are tracked across economies.