APEC trade talks begin in South Korea

Seoul

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) trade ministers’ meeting began Thursday on Jeju Island in South Korea. Trade officials from 21 APEC countries, along with representatives from the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), gathered to discuss global trade challenges.

This year’s meeting, held at Jeju’s International Convention Center, is focused on the theme "Building a Sustainable Tomorrow: Connect, Innovate, Prosper." The event will last two days and aims to address trade issues, especially rising trade protectionism.

Alongside the main event, many bilateral meetings are taking place. South Korea, China, and Japan are currently involved in trade talks with the United States regarding new tariff policies under President Donald Trump. These side meetings are seen as important steps toward easing tensions.

South Korean Trade Minister Cheong In-kyo is scheduled to meet U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer. Greer already met with China’s top trade envoy Li Chenggang earlier Thursday. Another meeting between Greer and South Korea’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Ahn Duk-geun is expected on Friday.

Last month in Washington, South Korea and the U.S. agreed to form a deal addressing tariffs and economic cooperation. This must be completed before early July, when a 90-day pause on new U.S. tariffs ends.

South Korea has suggested expanding cooperation in shipbuilding and energy to reduce U.S. duties on Korean exports. Officials hope these meetings will lead to long-term solutions and fairer trade rules in the Asia-Pacific region.