Malaysia can showcase RCEP progress on Apec stage, says trade analyst
Malaysia has the chance to use the Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting here to highlight progress under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) achieved during its Asean chairmanship, a trade analyst said.
Denis Hew, senior fellow at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, said the RCEP, which is an Asean-led initiative, can serve as a pathway to Apec’s long-term goal of a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP).
“RCEP also shows how deeper trade integration among its members can serve as a ‘buffer’ against external shocks such as the impact of aggressive reciprocal tariffs (from the US) and ongoing supply chain disruptions,” he told FMT.
“Malaysia can highlight the progress made in RCEP implementation at Apec, and perhaps revive discussions on FTAAP,” he added.
Malaysia recently wrapped up its term as Asean chair at the bloc’s 47th…
