Finance officials flag persistent imbalances
Senior Pacific Rim finance officials warned that persistent global economic imbalances threaten growth and stability. They also pledged to strengthen cooperation and communication among the region’s economies.
Following two days of meetings in Hong Kong, APEC finance leaders described trade rebalancing as a common interest. However, their joint statement did not identify specific measures. Officials also cited geopolitical tensions and vulnerable supply chains as important risks.
Trade concerns focus on China
Preparations for next month’s APEC summit in Shenzhen come as policymakers seek to rebalance trade with China. The country’s trade surplus this year is expected to exceed the record $1.2 trillion reported in 2025.
Meanwhile, APEC’s 21 member economies include China, the United States, Japan, South Korea, Canada and Australia. U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are expected to meet on the sidelines of the Shenzhen summit.
Members promise closer policy coordination
Chinese Finance Minister Lan Fo’an chaired the finance ministers’ meeting and said members agreed to improve economic policy coordination. Their goal is to address the risks and challenges facing the region.
According to China’s customs agency, the country’s trade with other APEC economies rose nearly 24% during the first three quarters of this year. Surging exports of high-tech products, including electric vehicles and lithium-ion batteries, drove the increase.
References
Chan, H.-H. (2026, October 21). APEC finance ministers warn persistent global imbalances risk growth and stability. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/apec-finance-ministers-trade-economy-f8d9079539914ff6d97546bbc438fd0a