China and ASEAN moved to expand trade under a new protocol. The arrangement aims to boost commerce between China and the 10-member bloc. With growing unease, analysts flagged risks over growing Chinese investment, pointing to risks in deeper ties. In Australia, CPA Australia attended a Shenzhen economic exchange ahead of APEC. Singapore-based legal firm Wotton Kearney set up a shipping disputes practice. Vietnam unveiled a strategic partnership to support its industry expo.

Earlier commentary contended that mainstream international trade theory fails to account for development. That view identifies gaps in the way trade gains are assessed across economies.