携手打造更加繁荣、更具活力的亚太经济(国际论坛)
Ren Min Ri Bao·2025-07-31 21:52

Core Points - The completion of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 negotiations demonstrates both parties' commitment to supporting free trade and multilateralism [1][2] - The upgraded FTA will enhance trade facilitation and support ASEAN's goal of becoming a regional economic growth center [2][3] Group 1: Economic Impact - The China-ASEAN Free Trade Area is the first FTA for ASEAN and has been a significant platform for bilateral economic cooperation since its establishment in 2010 [1] - China has maintained its position as ASEAN's largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years and is the second-largest source of foreign direct investment for ASEAN [1] - ASEAN has been China's largest trading partner for five consecutive years, indicating a growing interdependence in economic relations [1] Group 2: New Areas of Cooperation - The 3.0 version includes nine new chapters covering digital economy, green economy, supply chain connectivity, customs procedures, and trade facilitation [3] - The agreement aims to promote the free flow of products, services, and investments, creating a more resilient regional industrial chain network [3] - In the digital economy sector, the 3.0 version focuses on facilitating paperless trade, electronic invoicing, digital identity, and electronic payments, expanding cooperation in AI, cybersecurity, and fintech [3] Group 3: Regional Significance - The China-ASEAN Free Trade Area covers over 2 billion people, accounting for one-quarter of the global population, and represents over one-fifth of the world's economic output [3] - The partnership is positioned as a crucial engine for global economic recovery amid rising protectionism in some Western countries [3]