Politics · Singapore Bureau
China urges APEC nations to defend free trade amid global uncertainty
Beijing has called for APEC members to uphold open trade principles at an online ministerial meeting, as Chinese officials warn of mounting geopolitical tensions and supply chain vulnerabilities across the region.
LSN Singapore ·
China's top diplomats stressed the importance of maintaining free trade commitments during an online gathering of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation ministers, signalling concerns about protectionist pressures threatening regional commerce.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Commerce Minister Wang Wentao cautioned against what they characterised as "changes and turmoil" in the global environment, pointing to escalating risks to supply chains that underpin regional economies. The remarks underscore Beijing's emphasis on economic stability as geopolitical tensions simmer across Asia-Pacific.
The ministerial meeting, held under China's APEC presidency, provided a platform for Beijing to advocate for sustained economic integration among the 21-member forum. Officials warned that fragmentation of supply networks could undermine growth prospects for developing and developed economies alike.
China has previously sought to position itself as a defender of multilateral trade frameworks as the United States and other Western nations pursue more protectionist policies. The messaging reflects Beijing's strategy to rally regional support for maintaining open commerce during a period of heightened great-power competition and trade tensions.