China and ASEAN moved to expand trade under a new protocol. The arrangement seeks to expand commerce between China and the 10-member bloc. In a cautious climate, analysts flagged risks 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 new alliance for its trade showcase.
Earlier commentary contended that mainstream international trade theory fails to account for development. That view points to gaps in how gains from trade are tracked across economies.