DALIAN, China – APEC economies are advancing work on artificial intelligence, digital trade rules, and intellectual property protection as technology reshapes commerce across the Asia-Pacific. Thailand’s Department of Trade Negotiations participated in the third APEC Committee on Trade and Investment meeting and related sessions held August 17 to 28 in Dalian, China.
According to Director-General Chotima Iemsawasdikul, members discussed using AI, digital technologies, and robotics to facilitate trade, reduce barriers, and improve business capabilities. APEC is also studying AI-related provisions for future free trade and regional trade agreements as part of efforts toward the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific. A proposed Asia-Pacific AI Center would support innovation, skills development, AI safety, and knowledge exchange among member economies.
The meetings also addressed cross-border trade in goods that infringe intellectual property rights, especially those sold online. As e-commerce expands, APEC members are exploring greater cooperation to combat infringing goods, protect legitimate businesses and consumers, and improve confidence in digital commerce.
APEC comprises 21 economies and accounts for a large share of Thailand’s international trade. In 2025, Thailand’s trade with APEC economies totaled 494.65 billion US dollars, representing 72.26% of its total trade, with exports worth 237.58 billion dollars and imports totaling 257.06 billion dollars. (NNT)
