APEC trade ministers call for stronger supply chains and food security

APEC trade ministers have agreed to keep trade corridors open and strengthen supply chains across the Asia-Pacific, according to a joint statement issued after their meeting in Suzhou, China, on 22-23 May 2026.

The ministers said global trade continues to face major challenges, while technological change and industrial transformation are reshaping the region’s economy. They reaffirmed support for deeper economic integration, including work linked to the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific.

Supply chain resilience was one of the main points in the statement. Ministers said APEC economies should keep essential goods moving and improve transparency around measures that may disrupt trade. They also supported further digitalisation of trade procedures and a shift towards paperless trade.

Food security was also highlighted. The statement said trade has an important role in reducing food supply disruptions and building more open, resilient and innovative agri-food systems across the region.

APEC ministers also backed stronger cooperation on standards and conformity assessment procedures, saying this could help reduce unnecessary technical barriers to trade.

The statement pointed to digital trade, artificial intelligence and cross-border e-commerce as growing areas for cooperation. Ministers supported wider use of electronic trade documents, digital customs procedures and capacity building to help smaller businesses join regional and global markets.

The ministers also said APEC economies should continue work on WTO reform and noted the need for constructive engagement on agriculture at the WTO.

source and photo: apec.org