Ever wondered what's powering this year's APEC buzz? 🤔 As leaders gather in the Republic of Korea, the spotlight is on the unstoppable trade duo: the Chinese mainland and the ROK. Together, they're driving economic waves that ripple across Asia and beyond!
Trade on the Rise 📈
Last year saw a record-high $272.91 billion in import-export volume between the two giants – a 2% rise compared to 2023. Here's the breakdown:
- The ROK exported $133.04 billion in goods to the Chinese mainland, climbing 6.6%.
- It imported $139.87 billion from the Chinese mainland, a slight 2.1% dip.
Investment: A Two-Way Street 🚀
- ROK companies invested $1.93 billion in the Chinese mainland in 2024, up 2.1%, bringing total ROK investments to $95.62 billion.
- Investments from the Chinese mainland into the ROK soared to $5.79 billion – a whopping 266.1% jump year-on-year!
FTA Talks Forge Ahead 🌐
In April 2025, negotiators met in Beijing for the 11th round of Phase Two of the free trade agreement. Service trade, investment and finance were top of the agenda, shaping the blueprint for deeper economic ties.
Neighbors in Trust 🤝
On the sidelines of the ninth Trilateral Summit Meeting among the Chinese mainland, Japan and the ROK in Seoul, Premier Li Qiang highlighted the vision of being 'friendly neighbours of mutual trust and partners of mutual achievement.' It’s all about nurturing a sound, steady and substantial partnership across the Yellow Sea.
For students, young professionals and globe-trotters, these vibrant China-ROK connections are more than numbers – they’re the heartbeat of tomorrow’s markets. Keep your eyes on Asia-Pacific, it’s where the future is being written! ✨
Reference(s):
Driving forces: Robust China-ROK trade ties power APEC forward
cgtn.com
