中国—东盟自贸区3.0版开启区域合作新篇章

Core Viewpoint - The China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 version is set to enhance regional economic integration amidst rising global trade protectionism and geopolitical tensions, marking a new chapter in cooperation between China and ASEAN [1][2]. Group 1: Trade Relations - In the first 11 months of this year, trade between China and ASEAN reached $952.84 billion, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 7.7%, continuing a five-year trend of mutual partnership as the largest trading partners [2]. - The trade volume has significantly increased from less than $300 billion at the establishment of the Free Trade Area 1.0 to nearly $1 trillion today, indicating a substantial deepening of cooperation [2]. Group 2: Institutional Framework - The recently signed China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 upgrade protocol goes beyond tariff reductions, incorporating topics such as digital economy, green economy, and supply chain connectivity [2]. - The shift in industrial cooperation from cost-driven to collaborative industrial chain and technological upgrades is highlighted, marking a transition to a new phase of institutional openness based on rules and standards [2]. Group 3: Future Cooperation - Key future initiatives include expanding local currency settlements and promoting cross-border payment system integration to reduce reliance on a single currency and enhance financial autonomy [5]. - There is significant potential for cooperation in areas like artificial intelligence, smart cities, and capacity building, which are less sensitive to geopolitical tensions and can yield tangible development benefits [5].