Core Insights - The 2025 Trilateral Economic Report highlights the resilience and opportunities of the East Asian economic circle amid global uncertainties, emphasizing the importance of trilateral cooperation among China, Japan, and South Korea [1][6]. Economic Scale and Trade - In 2024, the combined GDP of China, Japan, and South Korea reached USD 24.21 trillion, a 2.7% increase from 2023, accounting for over 24% of global GDP [2][40]. - The total population of these three countries is approximately 1.584 billion, representing nearly 20% of the global population, making it one of the most promising consumer markets [2][40]. - The goods trade volume among the three countries is estimated at USD 8.93 trillion in 2024, which is 18.8% of global trade, highlighting their role as stabilizers in global supply chains [2][40]. Demographic Challenges - The aging population is a significant challenge, with Japan having 30% of its population aged 65 and older, South Korea at 18%, and China nearing 14%, all exceeding the global average of 10% [3]. - Fertility rates are critically low, with South Korea at 0.7, Japan at 1.2, and China at 1.0, indicating potential long-term population decline [3]. Economic Outlook - The report predicts that the economic growth rate for the ASEAN+3 region may fall below 4% in 2025 due to global trade shocks, with growth for China, Japan, and South Korea expected to decrease from 4.1% in 2024 to 3.7% [3][40]. - Long-term projections suggest that potential economic growth for ASEAN+3 and the CJK economies could decline to 2.8% and 3.0% by 2050, respectively [3][40]. Regional Economic Integration - The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has shown positive impacts on trade and investment, with the trade volume reaching USD 13 trillion in 2023, accounting for 30% of global exports [4]. - However, challenges remain, such as small and micro enterprises struggling to benefit from RCEP, and the need for improved customs facilitation [4]. Semiconductor Industry Collaboration - The semiconductor industry is highlighted as a critical area for trilateral cooperation, with South Korea leading in memory chips, Japan dominating in manufacturing equipment, and China rapidly advancing [5]. - Recommendations include establishing a trilateral semiconductor supply chain dialogue platform and joint research initiatives to enhance regional supply chain resilience [5]. Future Cooperation Directions - The report emphasizes the need for accelerated negotiations on the China-Japan-Korea Free Trade Agreement (CJKFTA) and collaboration in emerging sectors like electric vehicles and renewable energy [5]. - Strengthening regional cooperation is deemed essential to navigate uncertainties and promote sustainable growth across the region [6].