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. Amid rising concern, analysts warned over growing Chinese investment, warning of risks in deeper ties. In Australia, CPA Australia joined a Shenzhen economic exchange ahead of APEC. Singapore-based legal firm Wotton Kearney established a shipping disputes practice. Vietnam confirmed a strategic partnership for its industrial fair.

Earlier commentary contended that mainstream international trade theory ignores development concerns. That view points to gaps in how trade benefits are measured across economies.