Taiwan joins APEC ministers to advocate for trade reforms

In South Korea, from May 15 to 16, 2025, a delegation representing Taiwan, including members from the Executive Yuan's Office of Trade Negotiations and the Ministry of Economic Affairs, participated in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting. This active involvement underscores Taiwan's commitment to furthering its regional economic integration and collaboration with other APEC member economies. During the meeting, discussions focused on several key topics, such as enhancing connectivity through the multilateral trading system, harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence to streamline trade processes, and promoting sustainable trade practices that can lead to collective prosperity. The Taiwanese delegation, led by Minister without Portfolio and OTN Trade Representative Yang Jen-ni, advocated for significant reforms within the World Trade Organization's operational frameworks. Their recommendations included improving transparency, the negotiation process, and the mechanisms for dispute settlement. They also emphasized the need for concerted efforts among APEC members to ensure successful outcomes at the upcoming 14th WTO Ministerial Conference scheduled for 2026. The Taiwanese representatives highlighted their successes in leveraging technology, particularly through artificial intelligence, to streamline customs processes and contribute to trade efficiency. Amid these discussions, the delegation highlighted their government's initiative launched by President Lai Ching-te, known as the Five Trusted Industry Sectors, which aims to elevate key industries in Taiwan. Concerns regarding the challenges posed by AI in trade, particularly issues of intellectual property rights and information security, were also addressed. Delegation members recognized the importance of adopting AI-driven methods to enhance trade, underlining the necessity of protecting rights while embracing innovation. Moreover, Taiwanese representatives reiterated their commitment to environmental sustainability by discussing their ongoing carbon pricing measures, promotion of a circular economy, and efforts to bolster the global standing of Taiwanese industries. The meeting emphasized that robust regional cooperation is vital for building resilient and sustainable supply chains. They underscored that transforming to a green economy necessitates collaboration between public and private sectors. During the event, the delegation also took opportunities to seek support for Taiwan’s inclusion in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). In a separate meeting, Yang Jen-ni met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, reaffirming the positive outcomes of trade talks that had occurred the month prior in Washington, D.C., signaling Taiwan's intent to strengthen its economic ties with the United States.