China and ASEAN moved to expand trade through a fresh pact. The arrangement is designed to increase commerce between China and the 10-member bloc. Amid rising concern, 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 shipping disputes practice. Vietnam confirmed a strategic partnership for its industrial fair.
Earlier commentary contended that mainstream international trade theory overlooks development issues. That view points to gaps in the way trade gains are assessed across economies.