Core Viewpoint - The upcoming 8th Hongqiao International Economic Forum will release the "World Open Report 2025" and the latest World Open Index, addressing the current global economic and trade challenges and the overall openness of the world [2][3]. Group 1: Report Overview - The "World Open Report 2025" aims to enhance the completeness, precision, and depth of insights regarding the global openness landscape and the progress of various countries [3]. - The report consists of three main parts: global openness trends, key issues in global openness, and successful practices in global openness [3]. Group 2: Key Themes - The first part focuses on measuring the 2024 World Open Index and presents historical data from 1990 to 2007, analyzing the overall trend of global openness since 1990 [3]. - The second part delves into critical issues such as the tension between free trade and protectionism, cross-border data flow, global investment facilitation, and the role of openness in supporting industrialization in the Global South [3][5]. - The third part highlights successful practices, particularly China's initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the China International Import Expo, showcasing China's pragmatic measures and achievements in openness [3]. Group 3: Report Highlights - The report features increased international influence, including contributions from a Nobel laureate and collaboration with the UNIDO, enhancing the report's global perspective [4]. - The data foundation has been expanded to include a 35-year historical perspective, allowing for a more robust analysis of global openness trends [4]. - The report addresses cutting-edge topics such as cross-border data flow and global green development, emphasizing the role of cooperation among BRICS and emerging economies in industrial transformation [5].

Core Points - The APEC 32nd Leaders' Informal Meeting was held in Gyeongju, South Korea, from October 31 to November 1, focusing on the theme "Building a Sustainable Tomorrow" [1] - APEC is a significant cooperation platform encompassing 21 economies along the Pacific Rim, promoting economic integration in the Asia-Pacific region through a unique operational model [3] - The meeting emphasized three priority areas: enhancing connectivity, promoting innovation, and achieving inclusive growth and prosperity [3][4] Group 1 - APEC's commitment to "open regionalism" has facilitated trade and investment liberalization, benefiting both member economies and external economies, thus enhancing the global multilateral trading system [3] - The meeting serves as a collective response to protectionist sentiments, reinforcing support for a rules-based multilateral trading system and providing a platform for major economies like China, the U.S., Japan, and South Korea to coordinate and manage disputes [4] - The "2040 APEC Putrajaya Vision" outlines a grand blueprint for the Asia-Pacific region, emphasizing openness, vitality, resilience, and peace, aligning with future development needs [4] Group 2 - The Asia-Pacific region accounts for one-third of the world's population, over 60% of the global economy, and nearly half of global trade, highlighting the importance of cooperation over confrontation [5] - The themes and discussions of the APEC meeting reflect the desire for connection and collaboration among economies in response to the challenges of decoupling and supply chain disruptions [5]

Core Insights - The upcoming "World Open Report 2025" will analyze global trends in openness and governance, addressing the dynamics between free trade and protectionism [1][2] - The report will present the world openness index from 1990 to 2007 and project the index for 2024, highlighting the overall trends in global openness since 1990 [1] - Notably, the report will include contributions from a Nobel laureate in economics and will adopt a multinational corporate perspective to enhance the analysis [1] Group 1 - The report will focus on key issues such as the tension between free trade and protectionism, cross-border data flow, and the facilitation of global investment [1] - It aims to explore the development of efficient and sustainable global supply chains and value chains, as well as the role of openness in supporting industrialization in the Global South [1] - The report will also address new trends in global green development and the relationship between open cooperation and economic security [1] Group 2 - The eighth Hongqiao International Economic Forum will feature discussions among prominent figures from politics, academia, and business regarding the latest trends in global openness and China's initiatives for high-level opening [2] - The "World Open Report" serves as the flagship report of the Hongqiao International Economic Forum, co-authored by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum Research Center [2] - Since its first release in 2021, the report has been published annually for five years, contributing to the discourse on economic globalization [2]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the historical evolution of tariffs as a significant policy tool in international trade, emphasizing their role in shaping economic strategies and national interests throughout different historical periods [3]. Group 1: Early Forms of Tariffs - Tariffs originated as "tolls" paid at city gates, ferry crossings, or ports, with minimal impact on national revenue, primarily supported by land and head taxes [5]. - The Age of Exploration marked a turning point, where tariffs transitioned from local fees to a central tool for national fiscal and economic policy due to the rise of international trade [5]. Group 2: Mercantilism and Tariffs - During the early stages of capitalism, European nations adopted mercantilist policies, imposing high tariffs on imports to protect domestic industries and promote exports, aiming to accumulate gold and silver [6]. - A notable example is the UK, where tariff revenues increased approximately 3.5 times from 1700 to 1800, consistently accounting for over 20% of central government revenue [6]. Group 3: Divergence of Trade Policies in the 19th Century - The 19th century saw a split between free trade and protectionism, with industrialized nations like the UK advocating for lower tariffs to expand markets for manufactured goods [6]. - In contrast, emerging industrial nations such as the US and Germany implemented high tariffs to protect nascent industries from British competition, highlighting the contrasting trade strategies of the time [6].

Group 1 - Xi Jinping's visit to South Korea from October 30 to November 1 aims to enhance regional cooperation and global economic governance, marking his first state visit to South Korea in 11 years [1] - The visit is expected to strengthen the strategic partnership between China and South Korea, contributing to regional and global peace and stability [1][7] - Various stakeholders in South Korea express hope that Xi's visit will promote cooperation in trade and investment, particularly in high-value manufacturing and emerging industries [7][8] Group 2 - The APEC 2025 meeting logo, inspired by a butterfly, symbolizes the connection among APEC members and the promotion of regional cooperation and prosperity [2] - China's role as a strong advocate for open regional cooperation is emphasized, with expectations for Xi to propose initiatives that foster inclusive growth and connectivity [4][5] - The importance of multilateralism and free trade is highlighted, with China being recognized for its contributions to sustainable development and economic recovery in the Asia-Pacific region [5][6] Group 3 - The significance of Xi's leadership in promoting a community with a shared future for mankind is acknowledged, with calls for continued cooperation to address global challenges [3][4] - China's experience in green transformation, digital innovation, and infrastructure connectivity is seen as valuable for APEC members, especially developing economies [5][6] - The visit is viewed as a crucial opportunity to rebuild trust and cooperation between China and South Korea amidst rising unilateralism and protectionism [7][8]

Group 1 - The core theme of the meeting is "Building a Sustainable Tomorrow," focusing on activating trade and investment in the region and addressing global challenges such as energy and food security [2] - The meeting serves as an important platform for discussing economic cooperation and mutual development, while also providing an opportunity to strengthen historical ties and explore future collaborations [2] - China and other Asia-Pacific parties are committed to promoting regional integration and connectivity, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in the face of global challenges [2] Group 2 - The Asia-Pacific region is recognized as a major growth engine for the global economy, and its ability to maintain a cooperative spirit will significantly influence the development trajectory of both the region and the world [2] - The APEC meeting aims to deepen multi-level exchanges and promote digital innovation through artificial intelligence collaboration, addressing the digital divide [2] - The meeting is expected to foster consensus among participants, enhance unity and cooperation, and contribute to peace and prosperity in Asia and beyond [2]

Group 1 - The APEC meeting will take place in Gyeongju, South Korea, from October 31 to November 1, marking the first time in 20 years that South Korea has hosted the event [1][2] - The meeting is set against a backdrop of significant changes in the global economic landscape, presenting both new opportunities and challenges for regional cooperation in the Asia-Pacific [1][2] - The theme of this year's APEC meeting is "Building a Sustainable Future - Connectivity, Innovation, Prosperity," focusing on enhancing trade and investment cooperation among member countries [6][7] Group 2 - The meeting is expected to facilitate bilateral and multilateral interactions among key nations, including the U.S., China, Japan, and South Korea, with a focus on economic and security cooperation [4][5] - There is an emphasis on addressing contemporary issues such as artificial intelligence governance and demographic changes, reflecting the evolving priorities of APEC [7][8] - The APEC framework aims to counter rising protectionism and promote a more integrated and resilient economic environment in the Asia-Pacific region [8][9] Group 3 - The APEC meeting is seen as a critical turning point for the organization, with hopes of revitalizing its functional role and resetting its direction amid challenges to multilateralism and free trade [3][5] - The upcoming APEC meeting in 2026 will be hosted by China, which is expected to contribute to regional stability and cooperation through its experience in innovation and sustainable growth [10][11] - The discussions at the Gyeongju meeting will likely set the stage for future collaboration and consensus-building among APEC members, particularly in light of the ongoing geopolitical uncertainties [10][11]

Core Points - The upcoming visit of President Xi Jinping to South Korea from October 30 to November 1 marks his first state visit to the country in 11 years and the first meeting between the Chinese and South Korean leaders since President Yoon Suk-yeol took office [4][10] - Xi Jinping emphasized the deep-rooted ties between China and South Korea, highlighting their geographical proximity, cultural connections, and economic interdependence [5][7] - Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, bilateral trade between China and South Korea has increased over 60 times, with China being South Korea's largest trading partner for 21 consecutive years [7] Summary by Sections Bilateral Relations - China and South Korea are described as inseparable neighbors and partners, having built a strong relationship over 33 years despite ideological differences [7][9] - The two countries are currently advancing negotiations for the second phase of their free trade agreement, focusing on high-end manufacturing, biopharmaceuticals, and artificial intelligence [7] Strategic Cooperation - Xi Jinping proposed that both nations should adhere to their original intentions of establishing diplomatic relations, maintain friendly ties, and pursue mutual benefits regardless of changing global circumstances [8][10] - The leaders have reached significant consensus on enhancing strategic cooperation to elevate bilateral relations to a higher level [9] Current Context - The relationship is at a crucial juncture for improvement and development, with Xi's upcoming visit drawing global attention [10]

Core Points - The signing of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 upgrade protocol on October 28 in Kuala Lumpur marks a significant milestone in open cooperation between China and ASEAN, injecting strong momentum into the construction of an open world economy [1] - The upgrade is a key outcome of the consensus reached during the 30th anniversary summit of China-ASEAN dialogue relations and aligns with the goals of expanding high-level opening-up as outlined in the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China [1] - The China-ASEAN Free Trade Area has evolved since its establishment in 2010, continuously adapting to regional integration and enhancing trade cooperation across various sectors [1] Economic Cooperation - The construction of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 is an effective way to build a super-large market and a community with a shared future, with trade value expected to approach $1 trillion in 2024 and cumulative bilateral investment exceeding $450 billion as of July this year [2] - The upgrade will promote the development of emerging industries such as digital and green sectors, enhance standards and regulatory alignment, and facilitate infrastructure and supply chain connectivity [2] - The agreement reflects a strong commitment to multilateralism and free trade, providing certainty in the face of rising protectionism and geopolitical tensions [2] Future Outlook - By early 2025, China is expected to have signed 23 free trade agreements with 30 countries and regions, expanding its space for mutual benefit and cooperation [3] - The ongoing commitment to open cooperation and mutual benefit positions China as a stabilizing force and a source of momentum in the global economy [3] - The trend of economic globalization is seen as unstoppable, with China aiming to share opportunities and achieve win-win outcomes through inclusive economic globalization [3]

Core Points - The signing of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 upgrade protocol on October 28 in Kuala Lumpur marks a significant step in enhancing trade relations between China and ASEAN [1][3] - The protocol covers nine major areas, introducing five new sectors: digital economy, green economy, supply chain connectivity, competition and consumer protection, and support for small and medium enterprises [3][9] - The agreement aims to promote inclusive regional economic development, ensuring that businesses and people in both China and ASEAN benefit from economic growth [3][5] Group 1 - The protocol reflects a commitment to multilateralism and free trade, demonstrating a united front against unilateralism and protectionism [5] - It signifies a deeper level of cooperation in trade, moving beyond traditional trade and investment liberalization to include emerging sectors [9] - The trade volume between China and ASEAN reached $982.3 billion in 2024, a 17-fold increase since the establishment of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area in 2002 [7] Group 2 - The protocol is expected to enhance the quality and upgrade of economic cooperation between China and ASEAN, contributing to the construction of a high-standard free trade network [11] - The implementation of the protocol will facilitate advancements in areas such as digital trade and cross-border payments, linking the two regions more closely [9] - Agricultural imports from ASEAN to China increased by 15.3% in the first three quarters of this year, with a notable 37.8% growth in fruits entering China via the China-Laos Railway [7]