Core Viewpoint - The signing of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade Protocol marks a significant step towards deepening economic integration and cooperation in emerging fields such as digital and green economies, amidst challenges to the multilateral trading system [3][4]. Group 1: Importance of the Protocol - The protocol signifies a commitment to multilateralism and free trade, countering unilateral trade measures that threaten the international economic system [3]. - It establishes a new milestone for regional economic integration, expanding cooperation beyond traditional trade to include digital, green, and supply chain sectors [4]. - The protocol supports the construction of a China-ASEAN community of shared destiny, enhancing economic cooperation and creating a resilient regional supply chain [4]. Group 2: Background and Negotiation Process - The China-ASEAN Free Trade Area is the first free trade agreement established by both parties, with the initial agreement signed in 2002 and subsequent upgrades in 2010 and 2015 [5]. - The 3.0 version negotiations began in November 2021, culminating in the signing of the protocol after nearly two years of discussions and multiple rounds of meetings [5][6]. Group 3: Key Features of the Protocol - The protocol expands into five new areas: digital economy, green economy, supply chain connectivity, competition and consumer protection, and support for small and medium enterprises [7]. - It enhances the level of openness in trade, focusing on rules and cooperation in both traditional and emerging sectors [7][8]. - The protocol promotes inclusive development by ensuring fair competition, consumer protection, and support for small and medium enterprises [8]. Group 4: Main Content of the Protocol - In the digital economy, the protocol establishes a high-level rule system, including customs duty exemptions on electronic transmissions and enhanced data flow protections [9]. - In the green economy, it defines key areas for cooperation, including green trade and sustainable finance, aiming to eliminate trade barriers related to environmental standards [10]. - The protocol includes a dedicated chapter on supply chain cooperation, enhancing the resilience and connectivity of regional supply chains [11]. - It sets forth standards and technical regulations, encouraging mutual recognition of standards and joint development of evaluation procedures [12]. - The protocol enhances sanitary and phytosanitary measures, improving transparency and reducing compliance costs for businesses [12]. - It utilizes digital technologies to improve customs procedures and trade facilitation, aiming to streamline processes and reduce costs [13]. - It establishes a comprehensive framework for competition and consumer protection, enhancing consumer rights and promoting fair market practices [13]. - The protocol supports small and medium enterprises by providing resources and information to enhance their participation in international trade [14]. - It creates a framework for economic and technical cooperation, focusing on capacity building and support for the least developed countries [14]. Group 5: Implementation of the Protocol - Following the signing, both parties will undergo domestic approval processes to ensure the protocol is implemented as soon as possible [15].