China and ASEAN agreed to broaden commerce under a new protocol. The arrangement is designed to increase commerce between China and the 10-member bloc. In a cautious climate, 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 set up a shipping disputes practice. Vietnam confirmed a cooperation agreement to support its industry expo.

Past analysis contended that mainstream international trade theory fails to account for development. That view points to gaps in how trade benefits are measured across economies.