Ates transcript. Brief description and features of AES. Basic principles of APEC
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum was created in 1989 on the initiative of Australian Prime Minister John Hawke at a meeting of the ministers of economics and foreign affairs of twelve countries of the Asia-Pacific region - Australia, Brunei, Indonesia, Canada, Malaysia, New Zealand , Republic of Korea, Singapore, USA, Thailand, Philippines and Japan.
In 1991, the People's Republic of China joined the forum, as well as, as independent participants, Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei, according to the Constitution of the People's Republic of China, respectively, a special administrative region and a province of China.
Mexico and Papua New Guinea joined APEC in 1993, and Chile in 1994.
In 1998, simultaneously with the accession of Russia, Vietnam and Peru to APEC, a decision was made to introduce a 10-year moratorium on further expansion of the number of forum participants (extended in 2008).
In 1993, the First APEC Summit took place in Seattle (USA) and since then, meetings of APEC economic leaders have been held annually.
The leaders defined their vision of the created organization, accepted and formulated the basic principles and directions of activity.
1994
The main policy document, called the Bogor Declaration, defined the forum's strategy. Bogor Goals: “to create a system of free and open trade and investment activities in APEC” in accordance with GATT rules and the principles of open regionalism in two directions (trade and investment liberalization, economic and technical cooperation).
1995
An Action Program has been adopted that defines the tactics for implementing the stated Bogor goals. A key element of the Program was the agreement of APEC participants to prepare individual action plans aimed at liberalizing trade and investment regimes, as well as collective plans for the development of economic and technical cooperation. Fifteen areas were identified in which APEC members need to make changes: tariffs and non-tariff restrictions, services, investments, standards and compliance, customs procedures, intellectual property rights, government regulation, competition policy, government orders, compliance with WTO obligations (including rules of origin of goods ), mediation in disputes, mobility of business people, collection and analysis of information, strengthening the legislative framework.
1996
The declaration marked a transition to the development of specific mechanisms of cooperation. The Manila Action plan for APEC (MAPA) was adopted, which was based on the individual action plans (Individual Action Plan (IAP)) of the member economies and collective plans for trade and investment liberalization, as well as the APEC Declaration “Framework for Strengthening Economic Cooperation and Development” (Framework for Strengthening Economic Cooperation and Development). IAPs are prepared according to a unified scheme, but each APEC member independently determines the pace and order of liberalization, taking into account the state of the national economy and foreign trade. Collective Action Plans (CAP) detail the joint actions of APEC member economies in all areas of cooperation in accordance with the Osaka Agenda of Action.
1997
APEC membership criteria were approved and the Early Voluntary Sectoral Liberalization (EVSL) Program was agreed upon, providing for the elimination of tariff and non-tariff barriers in 15 trade sectors by 2010. The Vancouver Framework For Enhanced Public-Private Partnerships In Infrastructure Development and the declaration “Towards Strengthening Ties in the APEC Community” (Connecting The APEC Community) were adopted.
1998
A decision was made on the EVSL (Early Voluntary Sectoral Liberalization) Program in 9 sectors, as well as on the need for agreements on EVSL with economies that are not members of APEC within the WTO. The summit participants paid significant attention to the search for coordinated approaches to overcoming the financial and economic crisis and ensuring general economic stability in the Asia-Pacific region. APEC Blueprint For Action On Electronic Commerce and Action Program On Skills Development have been adopted.
1999
The main topics of the forum were the lessons of the Asian financial crisis, measures to restore and maintain economic growth in the region. The Auckland Challenge APEC Economic Leaders’ Declaration was adopted. APEC leaders approved the APEC principles for promoting competition and reforming the regulatory system. The results of the Forum's activities over ten years are reviewed and prospects for APEC development in the new millennium are outlined.
2000
The focus was on the processes of globalization with its inherent risks and opportunities to accelerate the pace of economic development, improve the well-being of the population, and master the latest information and telecommunication technologies. The Action Agenda for the New Economy was adopted. An electronic Individual Action Plan (e-IAP) system was introduced and the goal of tripling Internet access by 2005 was set.
2001
The Shanghai Accord was signed, providing for the expansion of the Osaka Program of Action, including the development of the concept of a “new economy”, strengthening the functioning of markets and the implementation of the “Electronic APEC” (e-APEC) strategy, the goal of which is to create a “digital society” in the region. Participants agreed to reduce the cost of trade transactions in regional trade by 5% by 2010. The leaders made the first APEC Leaders’ Statement On Counter-Terrorism.
2002
Leaders’ Statement to Implement APEC Transparency Standards and Statement To Implement APEC Policies On Trade And the Digital Economy were made. The leaders issued a second APEC Leaders' Statement On Fighting Terrorism And Promoting Growth, a Statement on Recent Terrorist Acts in APEC Member Economies, and a Statement on North Korea. The Secure Trade In the APEC Region (STAR) Initiative was adopted.
2003
The final Bangkok Declaration on Partnership for the Future emphasizes that APEC undertakes obligations to counter international terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in the region. It was emphasized that regional and bilateral free trade agreements must comply with WTO principles and contribute to the achievement of the Bogor Goals. The APEC Leaders’ Statement on Health Security and the updated Statement on Implementation of Transparency Standards were signed.
2004
In the Santiago Declaration, leaders reaffirmed the primacy of the multilateral trading system and emphasized that fighting corruption and ensuring transparency are important tools for developing economies. The declaration noted the positive results of the implementation of the Doha Action Plan, reflected in the package of documents adopted by the WTO General Council. A new Initiative has been adopted to expand trade between APEC member economies.
2005
The Busan Declaration "APEC-2005" and the Statement of the leaders of the "Doha Development Round" (Doha Development Agenda, DDA) were adopted. The commitment to achieve the Bogor Goals was confirmed through a series of measures designated as the Busan Roadmap, including support for the multilateral trading system, regional trade agreements and free trade agreements. Leaders reviewed implementation of the Shanghai Agreement and called for regional trade transaction costs to be reduced by a further 5% by 2010.
2006
The Hanoi Action Plan was adopted, aimed at achieving the Bogor Goals, implementing the Busan Road Map and creating a free trade zone in the region. A statement was made by the leaders on the agenda of the Doha Development Round of the WTO (WTO Doha Development Agenda) in the context of removing the brakes on the negotiation process.
2007
For the first time in the history of APEC, a Declaration on climate change, energy security and clean development was adopted - the Sydney Declaration (Sydney APEC Leaders’ Declaration on Climate Change, Energy Security and Clean Development), outlining a plan for future actions, joint actions and initiatives. The leaders adopted a Statement on Multilateral Trade Negotiations at the WTO. They welcomed APEC's new trade facilitation plan, which aims to reduce the cost of trade transactions by 5% by 2010.
2008
The leaders adopt A New Commitment to Asia-Pacific Development and the Lima APEC Leaders’ Statement on the Global Economy in the context of the global economic and financial crisis. The leaders expressed their intention to refrain from increasing protectionism and promote the speedy completion of the Doha Round of multilateral trade negotiations.
2009
The leaders outlined a new model of economic integration to overcome the crisis and adopted a Statement on the creation of “A new Growth Paradigm For a Connected Asia-Pacific in the 21st Century”, which includes 3 components: balanced, inclusive and sustainable growth. The leaders spoke in favor of the further creation of a commonwealth in the region.
2010
Following the summit, the leaders adopted the Yokohama Declaration on achievements in the implementation of the Bogor Goals. Leaders extended a moratorium on protectionist measures in trade and investment until 2013. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the early conclusion of the Doha Round of negotiations within the WTO, calling 2011 a “window of opportunity.” It was decided to move on to specific measures to form the Free Trade Area in the Asia Pacific (FTAAP). The task has been set to develop a comprehensive free trade agreement that takes into account regional initiatives.
The leaders adopted a development strategy until 2015.
2011
To create a “cohesive regional economy,” the leaders agreed to take concrete steps in three areas: strengthening regional economic integration and expanding trade, promoting green growth, and regulatory convergence.
Leaders noted progress in discussions on next-generation trade and investment issues, including market-oriented innovation policies and the inclusion of small and medium-sized enterprises in global chains. Economies agreed to begin work on a list of environmental goods and services for the next reduction of tariffs and non-tariff barriers. The leaders also agreed to bring closer approaches to the development of regulatory systems and introduce successful regulatory practices in their economies.
2012
Taking into account the instability of the global economy, the key task for APEC member economies was to develop proposals to curb protectionism and advance towards the implementation of the Bogor Goals in the field of creating a system of free and open trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region.
Key initiatives were implemented under four key priorities.
Liberalization of trade and investment, regional economic integration:
- adoption of the APEC Model Chapter on Transparency in FTA Agreements;
- formation of a list of environmental goods, obligations to counter “green” protectionism;
- dissemination of best practices in protecting foreign investments.
Formation of reliable supply chains:
- implementation of measures to diversify supply routes between the Asia-Pacific region and major partners;
- introduction of modern technologies in supply chain management;
- risk management and supply chain security issues.
- strengthening food security.
Intensive interaction to ensure innovative growth:
- formation of an educational space in APEC and development of cooperation in the field of education;
- active discussion of issues of innovative growth, creation of working bodies in APEC to discuss issues of innovation policy;
- discussion of measures to develop human capital.
Others:
- declaration on cooperation in the energy sector;
- Declaration on Anti-Corruption.
Declaration following the 2012 APEC summit.
2013
The Indonesian presidency of APEC highlighted pressing issues regarding the future development of the global economy, taking into account the economic problems that have arisen in developed economies (in particular, the USA and the EU). The Chairmanship's theme emphasizes the need to maintain sustainable economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region as one of the main engines of global growth. Three main priorities have been identified:
1) Trade and investment liberalization, achieving the Bogor goals:
- Creation of a platform for dialogue aimed at implementing commitments to reduce tariff restrictions within the list of environmentally friendly goods;
- Work to stimulate trade in goods that contribute to green growth, rural development and poverty alleviation.
2) Promoting connectivity between economies in the region:
- APEC Connectivity Framework;
- Action Plan for the Development of Cross-Border Cooperation in Education in APEC;
- Cooperation among APEC economies to facilitate the movement of relief workers.
3) Achieving sustainable growth on an equitable basis:
- APEC Food Security Partnership Roadmap to 2020;
- APEC Ocean Mainstreaming Initiative;
- An initiative to promote clean, renewable and sustainable energy use to strengthen energy security.
Others:
Adoption of the “Separate Statement from APEC Economic Leaders on Support for the Multilateral Trading System and the Ninth Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization: To Develop a Balanced and Effective Bali Package.”
The declaration following the summit can be obtained from the link: Declaration of the Twenty-First Meeting of APEC Leaders of Economies
2014
Despite the gradual recovery of the global economy, economic growth in various economies around the world remains weak, and the risks of fragmentation of the global economy are deepening. In this regard, China's presidency year has focused on how the APEC region can explore new areas of growth, enhance the interconnectedness of economies, and promote the development of the multilateral trading system. China has formulated three priorities for its chairmanship:
1) Strengthening regional economic integration:
- Work Plan for APEC's Contribution to the FTAAP;
- Creation of an APEC mechanism in the field of information exchange on RTA/FTA;
- APEC Strategic Plan for the development and interaction of value chains;
- Establishment of an APEC strategic framework for value chain analysis based on input-output tables;
- APEC Alliance on Supply Chain Connectivity;
- Model network of interaction of electronic ports in the Asia-Pacific region;
- A strategy to promote supply chain connectivity through mutual recognition, facilitation and information exchange between customs services;
- Public-private partnerships for environmental goods and services.
2) Strengthening the comprehensive interconnectedness of APEC economies and infrastructure development in the region:
- Strategic Plan for Connectivity 2015-2025;
- Multi-year plan for infrastructure development and investment in this area;
- APEC Customs Strategic Framework Initiative.
3) Innovative development, carrying out economic reforms and achieving economic growth:
- APEC Agreement on Innovative Development, Economic Reform and Growth;
- Development of the Internet economy;
- Cooperation in the field of Blue Economy;
- An initiative aimed at innovative development;
- Beijing Declaration against Corruption;
- An initiative aimed at creating a healthy Asia-Pacific region by 2020;
- Cooperation in the field of urbanization and sustainable urban development;
- Cooperation in overcoming the middle income trap;
- Statement on Supporting Trade and Investment in Renewable and Clean Energy.
The declaration on the results of the summit can be obtained from the link: DECLARATION ON THE RESULTS OF THE 22nd MEETING OF APEC FORUM ECONOMY LEADERS
2015
Recognizing the uneven growth of the global economy and the associated risks, APEC leaders reaffirmed the importance of integrating and increasing the level of participation of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in regional and global markets; creating sustainable communities; human capital development; improving regional economic integration. In addition, support was expressed for achieving high-quality growth and the formation of efficient service markets, which constitute a significant share of the regional economy. The main priorities of the Philippine Presidency for 2015 were:
1) Strengthening regional economic integration:
- A work plan has been developed to conduct a collective strategic study on FTAFA issues;
- Framework for Action on Cooperation in Services (Annex B of the 2015 Leaders' Declaration);
- Development of the Portal for foreign economic information (APEC Trade Repository APECTR);
- Development of cooperation in the field of ensuring interconnectedness of supply chains;
- Report on the fulfillment of obligations to reduce tariffs on environmental goods to a level of 5% and below.
2) Stimulating the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises in the regional and global economy:
3) Investments in human capital:
4) Building balanced and sustainable communities:
Others:
2016
In 2016, APEC continued to work to promote free and open trade and investment, sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region (APR). To achieve these goals, the main priorities of Peru's presidency for 2016 were the following:
1) Promotion of regional economic integration:
2) Modernization of small and medium enterprises:
3) Development of human capital:
4) Strengthening the food market in the region:
Others:
The text of the Declaration following the summit can be accessed at the following link: DECLARATION OF APEC LEADERS 2016, LIMA, NOVEMBER 21, 2016.
2017
In 2017, APEC continued to work towards the goal of creating a peaceful, stable region characterized by stable, dynamic and sustainable economic growth. The main activities of the Forum were aimed at stimulating structural reforms to ensure a rapid recovery of world trade and economic growth after the global economic crisis, in the context of the fourth industrial revolution and globalization. The main issues discussed within all APEC working bodies touched upon the need to ensure economic integration against the backdrop of growing protectionist sentiments, structural reforms, human development, the formation of a digital economy and ensuring socio-economic integration, as well as the integration of micro, small and medium-sized businesses into global supply chains.
In addition, institutional aspects of APEC’s work were actively discussed, including the mechanism for conducting project activities and the vision of APEC after 2020.
Vietnam, as the 2017 APEC Chair, has identified the following key priorities for APEC activities in 2017:
- Ensuring sustainable, innovative and inclusive growth
- Structural reforms: continued implementation of the APEC Roadmap for Enhancing Competitiveness in Services, continued implementation of individual action plans to implement the Updated APEC Structural Reform Agenda, publication of the 2017 Economic Committee Report on Structural Reforms and Human Capital Development ", continued exchange of best government practices, simplification of business mechanisms in APEC.
- Innovation: approval of the APEC Roadmap for the Digital and Internet Economy, holding events at the innovation forum of the life sciences industry.
- Development of human capital in the digital era: approval", discussion of issues on the development of environmentally friendly tourism, the formation of an initiative for the economic integration of remote regions and the creation of an electronic platform for the sale of technical means for the rehabilitation of people with disabilities.
- Deepening regional economic integration
- Achieving the Bogor Goals by preparing for their renewal.
- Shaping the APEC agenda beyond 2020 through the formation of a special task force.
- Carrying out activities aimed at the formation of the FTAAP: approval of the “Action Plan for the implementation of the 3rd initiative to improve competencies in the field of regional integration”, as well as the continuation of the implementation of the “Lima Declaration on the FTAAP”.
- Supporting the development of the multilateral trading system by supporting the activities of the WTO and monitoring progress in its implementation in APEC economies.
- Supporting APEC Connectivity, Value Chains (VACs) and Supporting Industries: Continued implementation of the APEC Connectivity Action Plan 2015–2025. , APEC Supply Chain Connectivity Action Plan (SCFAP) Phase 2 and expansion of the APEC Green Supply Chain Cooperation Network, as well as discussions on the formation of a platform for cooperation in the field of value chains and approval of the APEC Investment Climate Improvement Report.
- Facilitating cross-border e-commerce, investment and services: approving Annex A to the APEC Cross-Border E-Commerce Framework Agreement, Annex A to the Statement by Finance Ministers, and by discussing non-tariff barriers in the food sector and conducting dialogues on issues trade policy in the field of digital trade.
- Increasing the competitiveness and innovation potential of MSMEs in the digital era
- Promoting greater participation of MSMEs in global value chains: Continued efforts to implement the Boracay MSME Globalization Action Agenda and undertake a series of activities to engage MSMEs in global supply chains.
- Creating a favorable business environment for the successful operation of MSMEs in the digital era: approval of the statement of ministers responsible for the development of MSMEs “Increasing the competitiveness and innovativeness of MSMEs in the digital era” and holding activities for the participation of MSMEs in e-commerce.
- Promoting the development of start-ups and innovative MSMEs: approval of Annex B to the Ministerial Declaration on the APEC Strategy for Green, Innovative and Sustainable MSMEs and approval of the APEC Strategy on Promoting the Development of Innovative Start-ups.
- Strengthening food security and developing sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change
- Addressing the issue of food security through the prism of climate change: approval of the annex to the ministerial declaration of the APEC Multi-Year Plan for Food Security in a Changing Climate.
- Sustainable management of marine and forest resources, including the use of modern technologies, including through the approval of the Seoul Statement of Ministers Responsible for the Forestry Sector.
- Sustainable development of urban and rural areas: approval of the annex to the ministerial declaration “Action Plan for the Development of Urban and Rural Areas to Strengthen Food Security and Ensure Quality Growth.”
- Promotion of trade in agricultural products and investment in agriculture.
- Harmonization of food safety standards and reduction of food losses through activities on this topic.
The leadership declaration following the summit can be obtained from the link: Declaration following the 2017 APEC Summit.
The Ministerial Declaration following the summit can be obtained from the link: Declaration following the 2017 APEC Ministerial Meeting.
2018
Despite the willingness of the parties to make concessions on issues of the digital agenda, the economies were unable to adopt the Leadership Declaration and the Statement of the Ministers of Trade and Foreign Affairs following the results of the forum. Significant differences in positions (primarily the United States and China) regarding the role of the WTO and its future reform did not allow the economies to come to formulations that would suit all parties. APEC economies agreed on the need to reform the WTO, but specific proposals for implementing this work caused serious disagreement. The positions of economies in combating “unfair” trade practices also became a stumbling block.
2019
APEC annually hosts closely related conferences and meetings at various levels. The main ones are informal summits of the top leaders of the participating economies, as well as meetings of the ministers of foreign affairs and trade dedicated to them.
Economics Chairman elected for one year and responsible for organizing all meetings taking place on its territory. She also determines the priorities of the forum's activities for the term of her chairmanship.
Performs administrative and technical functions APEC International Secretariat, located in Singapore. The secretariat includes the executive director, his deputy, diplomats from each forum participant and local support staff. The Secretariat is responsible to the Senior Officials (SLOs) of member economies and may be authorized to act on behalf of APEC members.
APEC's work includes both “physical” meetings and the use of electronic means of communication (intersessional work). Participation of guests (non-APEC economies, international organizations and business representatives) is provided for in the activities of working groups and is regulated by Consolidated Guidelines on Non-Member Participation in APEC Working Group Activities.
APEC Supreme Body – APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting(APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, AELM).
Based on the results of the AELM, final declarations and various types of annexes are adopted, complementing them and defining the principles of cooperation.
APEC summits are always preceded by ministerial meetings(APEC Ministerial Meetings, AMM) – meetings of foreign ministers and trade ministers. At these meetings, joint statements are finalized and then submitted to the leaders for review and approval. Before ministerial meetings, meetings of heads of line ministries (Sectoral Ministerial Meetings, SMM) are held on a regular basis. These meetings can take place in any country that agrees to organize it.
Meetings are held to prepare meetings at the ministerial level and coordinate the activities of working bodies senior officials(Senior Officials’ Meeting, SOM). SAOs coordinate the implementation of decisions taken at the summit, and also control the budget of APEC working bodies and projects. Since 2005, Senior Finance Officials Meeting (SFOM) has also been held as a precursor to Finance Ministers' meetings.
It has been operating on an ongoing basis since 1995 as an autonomous business forum. Business Advisory Council(BKS) (APEC Business Advisory Council, ABAC). The ABAC holds four meetings a year with the invitation of well-known businessmen from participating economies. ABAC participates in APEC summits as an official delegate and has its own secretariat.
At the operational and project level, the functioning of APEC is coordinated by SAOs overseeing four main committees.
- (Committee on Trade and Investment, CTI) coordinates issues on the implementation, expansion and promotion of trade and investment liberalization. It is the main working body of APEC and coordinates the work of eight working bodies and three “industrial dialogues”. The APEC Strategy Unit (PSU) supports CTI in analytical work related to its key priorities. CTI also conducts Trade Policy Dialogues (TPDs) to gain greater understanding of not only the technical but also the political aspects of the issues discussed in the committee.
- (Steering SOM Committee on ECOTECH, SCE) deals with issues of economic and technical cooperation in order to achieve sustainable growth and equitable development in the Asia-Pacific region. In accordance with the decision of the SAO in 2010, the priority areas of the Committee's activities in the medium term are regional economic integration, the social dimension of globalization, improving the quality of life through sustainable growth, structural reforms and human security. SCE coordinates the work of seventeen task forces and working groups.
- (Economy Committee, EC) analyzes trends in the economic development of the region, develops reforms aimed at reducing structural and administrative barriers. The Committee actively uses the advice of scientists, researchers, businessmen, and develops action plans to make doing business easier.
- (Budget and Management Committee, BMC) develops recommendations on the budget structure and draws up justification for financing APEC projects. BMC monitors the activities of committees and working groups and provides SAOs with reports on their effectiveness.
The current macroeconomic situation is conducive to the development of export sectors of the Russian economy. We have already discussed with one of our experts, academician Andrei Spartak, the prospects for the markets of the Asia-Pacific region for our country. Russia has been a member of APEC, an international organization that unites the leading countries of the Asia-Pacific region, for almost 20 years. Is this tool used to promote Russian exports and what are the prospects for this cooperation - in an interview with Tatyana Flegontova, Director of the APEC Russian Research Center.
What is Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation and what is its role in the global economic system?
The APEC Forum was created in 1989 on the initiative of Australian Prime Minister Hawke. Russia joined APEC in 1998 and held its first and so far only chairmanship in 2012. Today APEC plays a fairly serious role in the global economic system. At the end of last year, 64% of world GDP was accounted for by the joint GDP of APEC economies, and the share of APEC economies in global trade turnover was 48%.
GDP and share of Asia-Pacific countries in the global economy in 2000-2017. Source:What are the key features of APEC compared to other international organizations?
Firstly, it is a club-type organization. Decisions made in APEC are not binding, but nevertheless, it is important to note that they are made by consensus. The high probability of compliance with the agreements of the economies is associated with the annual reporting on the achievements of the APEC economies and the image component. The results of countries' work at the technical level are discussed at summits at the end of the year.
Source: RIA Novosti
Secondly, APEC is one of the few platforms where open dialogue takes place between developed and developing countries. There are several key groups of economies or blocks that participate in APEC activities. This is the Anglo-Saxon bloc (Australia, USA, New Zealand, Canada) plus Japan, the leading Asian players are Japan, China, Russia and Korea. One can also identify a group of Asian tigers - in addition to Korea, this includes Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore, ASEAN member states and the South American economies of Mexico, Peru and Chile. Papua New Guinea stands apart, but its activities in APEC have intensified in recent years. Next year all events will be held under the auspices of Papua New Guinea and on the territory of this country.
Source: APEC Russian Research Center
Often people talk about APEC only in terms of holding summits. Are there any other events taking place at the APEC site?
APEC is a structure that operates throughout the year with three key clusters of working group meetings that culminate in meetings of senior officials. A number of other meetings at various levels are being held. They are more technical in nature, but this is where most of the work of APEC economies takes place. In addition, the Business Advisory Council is active and annual meetings of business representatives from APEC economies are held.
Why is cooperation interesting for national economies?
The APEC platform may be interesting from the point of view of promoting the interests of national companies in the region. Firstly, within the framework of APEC, a large number of seminars and dialogues, studies and surveys are held among both representatives of the power structures of economies and business representatives. Databases and information resources are being formed that make it easier to obtain information about the regulation of APEC economies, how business operates in APEC economies, how to integrate into international trade, international economic cooperation for businesses from APEC economies.
Secondly, APEC is often a platform for testing certain decisions, and if successful, APEC advisory decisions are subsequently transferred to other sites, for example, the WTO, and there they become binding. One can note a fairly serious level of interaction between the APEC forum and the G20, the OECD, and a number of other forums and organizations.
Thirdly, some of the most discussed regional integration initiatives were formed in the Asia-Pacific region or with the participation of APEC economies. These are the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, and the Pacific Alliance. Despite the fact that in the last six months there has been a slight slowdown in these processes, the Asia-Pacific region nevertheless remains key in terms of the development of regional trade and economic integration. Therefore, when forming and developing our initiatives, including the EAEU, the Greater Eurasia project, the project to connect the EAEU with the Chinese Silk Road initiative, we need to take into account the ongoing integration processes in the Asia-Pacific region and become involved in them.
Source: APEC Russian Research Center
What can business gain from participating in APEC?
The first - this is probably the simplest option - is to find partners and exchange experiences. APEC is actively working towards the development of small and medium-sized enterprises, including holding a lot of forums and various kinds of exhibitions and fairs. Here you can show yourself and look at people. For example, conduct campaigns to exchange best practices with business representatives from similar industries.
The second is reducing costs when entering foreign markets. Although APEC recommendations are not binding, nevertheless, long-term work leads to the harmonization of a number of standards and to the reduction of tariff and non-tariff restrictions. And if a business has long-term goals of entering and consolidating its own interests in a particular market in the Asia-Pacific region, then it should participate in the work of APEC.
The third is promoting your own developments. At APEC platforms, issues of trade in individual goods, issues of technological cooperation, the formation of common new or harmonization of existing standards are discussed. The latter is especially important for innovative, high-tech goods, including digital goods, for many of which generally accepted technical standards have not yet been formed.
Source: APEC Russian Research Center
How active is Russia in APEC?
The main peak of Russia's activity in APEC occurred in 2012, when Russia chaired it. The priorities of the year and key initiatives were formed precisely thanks to Russian proposals.
What priorities and initiatives are we talking about?
The first priority is trade liberalization. In particular, a list of environmental goods was formed, on which by the end of last year the economies had agreed, and, by the way, had already reduced tariff restrictions to the level of 5% and below. Another priority was the formation of reliable supply chains. As part of this initiative, much attention was paid to the development of the Far East. The next priority placed significant emphasis on promoting food security. And finally, this is innovative growth, innovative development.
Are these initiatives developing today?
As sad as it may be, Russia's interest in working in APEC has become much less today. However, to date, work on all started tracks continues - the initiatives that Russia puts forward today often originate precisely from the 2012 chairmanship.
The second set of issues is the development of human capital. Here I would like to note the work that is being done in the field of cooperation in higher education. For example, a conference on higher education is held annually in Vladivostok. This year it will be devoted to the issue of recognition of diplomas and qualifications in the APEC region. Work is also underway to ensure a culture of prevention in occupational safety. This year, at the All-Russian Occupational Safety and Health Week, a trial APEC conference on this topic was held, and next year it is planned to hold a high-level event, that is, at the level of ministers and deputy ministers. APEC's work to support innovative, competitive SMEs and encourage their inclusion in international trade is of great importance. The main area of work is the formation of an information database (APEC MarketPlace), which provides complete information to small and medium-sized enterprises necessary to enter the markets of APEC economies. Russia is actively participating in this, offering its directions and its developments.
The third block of issues that Russia is actively promoting in APEC is carrying out structural reforms and ensuring innovative growth. This year, Russia put forward several initiatives and projects that were successfully adopted and supported by APEC economies.
Data from a VTsIOM survey prepared for the APEC summit. Source: VTsIOM
What are these initiatives?
Firstly, initiatives to develop innovation clusters and technology markets of the future. They are being developed jointly with the National Research University Higher School of Economics, and it is planned to connect ASI and RVC. We also actively attract businesses to these areas.
Secondly, a comprehensive initiative for the development of remote regions of APEC economies. This is related to the task of promoting the interests of the Russian Far East, however, the initiative was supported by China, Indonesia, and a number of other countries that have their own interesting ideas for the development of remote regions. Already in August of this year, a corresponding conference at the level of senior officials on this issue will be held. Based on the results of this work, it is planned to formulate a comprehensive APEC strategic plan on this issue.
Recently, there have been major changes in the global economy and trade, including those related to the development of new technologies. Do they somehow affect discussions in APEC? Are there any new issues that have not been discussed before?
Yes, of course, discussions change. If previously the key issue was regional economic integration and the traditional reduction of tariff barriers, now the key issues are, firstly, innovative development, and here Russia, as I have already said, is promoting a number of interesting initiatives and projects. Secondly, this is the development of the digital economy, which is also fundamentally important for Russia. This year it is planned to formulate a common APEC road map for the development of the digital economy.
Can you tell us more about the ideas that go into such a map?
To begin with, we are talking about the development of physical infrastructure, that is, ensuring universal access to the Internet. Here we are talking not only about the availability of broadband Internet throughout the APEC economies, but also about its accessibility.
The second set of issues is ensuring the creation of a regulatory framework that must be formed for the development of the digital economy. To date, none of the APEC economies has comprehensive legislation in this area. There are separate laws that relate to personal data, digital signatures, electronic document management, and other issues.
The third set of questions concerns ensuring the security of the Internet system and the digital economy as a whole. This is one of the key areas, because “big data” is a stimulus for growth, a kind of currency of the modern economy, and it is necessary to ensure proper protection of this data at different levels. The role of the state in this case is of fundamental importance.
The fourth block is the formation of an inclusive digital economy. Here again the question arises of remote regions, small and medium-sized enterprises, and ensuring access to digital technologies for people with disabilities.
It is also important to note the need to support the development of appropriate technologies.
A separate issue is the formation of tools for statistical assessment of the digital economy.
What about e-commerce?
E-commerce is a separate area of APEC work. Vietnam is chairing APEC this year, and on its initiative, a framework agreement is being developed to develop e-commerce in APEC economies.
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation- — Telecommunications topics, basic concepts EN Asia Pacific economic cooperationAPEC… Technical Translator's Guide
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation- ... Wikipedia
ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERATION- (Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation) An intergovernmental organization of 21 states in the region, including the USA, Canada, Japan, Mexico, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, China, South Korea, ASEAN countries, etc., created in 1989 on the initiative of... ... Foreign economic explanatory dictionary
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)- ASIA PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERATION (APEC) A regional economic bloc formed in 1990 with the aim of creating a free trade zone. The group included: Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Canada, China, Republic of Korea, Malaysia,... ... Dictionary-reference book on economics
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)- a regional grouping created in 1989. The association includes states of the Pacific Ocean, which differ greatly in their level of economic development. In 1995, a program was adopted providing for the creation of a free trade zone and... ... Geoeconomic dictionary-reference book
Forum "Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation" Encyclopedia of Newsmakers
Forum Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation- In connection with the upcoming APEC Summit of Heads of State and Government, November 18-19. The intergovernmental forum "Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation" (APEC) was created in November 1989 at the first ministerial conference... ... Encyclopedia of Newsmakers
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum- Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC, Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum) is an interstate forum created to promote economic growth, cooperation, trade and investment in the Asia Pacific region.… … Encyclopedia of Newsmakers
Asian-Pacific area- Countries of the Asia-Pacific region The Asia-Pacific region is a political and economic term denoting the countries located along the perimeter of the Pacific Ocean and the numerous island states in itself ... Wikipedia
APEC- Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is an international (regional) economic organization. APEC is the largest economic association (forum), accounting for over 60% of world GDP and 47% of world trade volume... ... Wikipedia
Books
- Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. Yesterday, today, tomorrow, the book continues a series of publications devoted to the development of the macroregion, under the general title “Strategy for the development of the Far East and the Baikal region”. The second book in the series attempts to answer... Category: Enterprise Economics Series: GSL Library Publisher:, Manufacturer: Far Eastern University Publishing House, Buy for 2750 UAH (Ukraine only)
- Asia-Pacific economic cooperation: yesterday, today, tomorrow, Kurilov V.I. , The monograph continues a series of publications devoted to the development of the macroregion, under the general title 171; Strategy for the development of the Far East and the Baikal region 187;. It attempts to answer... Category: Foreign policy. International relationships Series: Publisher:
42. Ates: goals and directions of activity. Organizational structure.
APEC goals and objectives
Its main long-term goal is to deepen intraregional economic relations by eliminating obstacles in trade, investment and technological interaction.
The goals of the Asia-Pacific Forum for Economic Cooperation were officially defined in 1991 in the Seoul Declaration:
1) Maintaining economic growth of the countries of the region;
2) Strengthening mutual trade;
3) Ensuring a free and open trade regime in accordance with GATT/WTO standards and strengthening regional cooperation.
Activities in APEC are aimed at discussing and searching for agreed solutions in the following areas:
1. Achieving benefits from globalization and the new economy. Work is underway to expand economic and technological cooperation by adopting individual action plans in this area
2. Promote trade and investment liberalization. The use of trade facilitation methods to improve trade efficiency is expanding,
3. Maintaining sustainable economic growth. It is planned to expand cooperation in the financial sector,
APEC structure
The Seoul Declaration established the commitment of participating countries to achieve free trade and regional economic cooperation based on the principle of open regionalism. APEC's activities are also based on the principle of consensus in decision-making, non-discrimination, mutual respect and equality, compliance with WTO standards and “network” cooperation (taking into account the capabilities of each participating country).
The APEC structure is decentralized.
Each country holds the APEC Presidency for a year, and its leader chairs the Forum and chairs meetings of leaders, ministers, senior officials, and APEC groups on tourism, SMEs, customs, standards and compliance. In other APEC working groups, the chairman is elected based on the principle of consensus.
At the meetings of the heads of APEC member states (Economic Leader's Meeting), the most important political decisions are made. The first meeting of the heads of APEC member states took place in 1993 in Seattle (USA). The tenth meeting of the leaders of APEC member countries took place in Los Cabos ( Mexico) October 26-27, 2002
The areas of APEC activity are determined at the annual meetings of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Economics (Ministerial Meeting).
Meetings of ministers (Sectoral Ministerial Meetings) of the sectors: education, energy, labor, science and technology, communications, transport, finance, trade, small and medium-sized enterprises, ecology, etc. are held separately.
Before the next meeting of ministers, meetings of senior officials (Senior Officials Meeting - SOM) are regularly held. Senior officials prepare recommendations for decisions taken at ministerial level. They monitor and coordinate the budget and work programs for the APEC forum.
The leading role in ensuring interaction between government agencies and the business community is played by the APEC Business Advisory Council, which was created in accordance with the decision of the Osaka Summit in November 1995. Members of the ABAC are appointed directly by the heads of state and government from among the most authoritative and competent representatives of the business community. From each country, the council includes up to three people, often one seat is reserved for leaders of small and medium-sized businesses. ABAC members meet three to four times a year and develop recommendations on how to improve the business and investment climate in the region. Recommendations are presented by APEC heads of state and government at their annual summits in the form of a report. The recommendations of the ABAC, approved by the heads of state and government, subsequently become a “guide to action” for APEC as a whole. The ABAC Action Plan Monitoring Committee oversees the implementation of the Forum members' Individual Action Plans (IAPs), which serve as the main instrument of trade and investment liberalization. CMPD monitors the implementation of IPD in electronic format and studies ways to improve them.
Administrative and technical functions are performed by the Secretariat (APEC Secretariat), created in 1993, with headquarters in Singapore. The terms of reference performed by the Secretariat are defined in an official statement approved by APEC member states. Based on this document, the Secretariat is the main working body of APEC. The management of the Secretariat is carried out by the Executive Director in strict accordance with the priority areas of activity established at a meeting of senior officials (acting on behalf of ministers).