China and ASEAN agreed to broaden commerce through a fresh pact. The arrangement aims to boost commerce between China and the 10-member bloc. In a cautious climate, analysts cautioned over growing Chinese investment, pointing to risks in deeper ties. In Australia, CPA Australia joined a Shenzhen economic exchange ahead of APEC. Singapore-based legal firm Wotton Kearney added a maritime claims unit. Vietnam unveiled a cooperation agreement to support its industry expo.

Past analysis contended that mainstream international trade theory fails to account for development. That view highlights gaps in how gains from trade are tracked across economies.