APEC’s 2017 policy priorities presented
Policy cooperation to reinvigorate trade and economic growth among the 21 APEC member economies in 2017 will focus on improving adaptation to change in a globalized world, the group’s incoming Chair, Viet Nam, announced at the conclusion of a key planning meeting in Ha Noi on December 9, 2016.
Four priorities to be advanced by APEC members over the coming year, under the theme “Creating New Dynamism, Fostering a Shared Future,” were agreed upon following consultations between their Senior Officials. They also draw on inputs shared here by the private sector, policy researchers and international development organizations.
To this end, APEC’s 2017 POLICY PRIORITIES will include:
• Promoting sustainable, innovative and inclusive growth
Structural reform will be high on APEC’s agenda to boost productivity, innovation, and equitable and fair development. Mitigating against economic and financial volatility and the increasing threat of natural disasters and pandemics will be an additional emphasis.
• Fostering far-reaching regional integration and connectivity
Collaboration will center on revitalizing trade and investment via work on next generation issues that can open up the benefits to more people. Parallel work will address existing and ongoing regional trade arrangements as well as strengthen infrastructure financing and development.
• Supporting small business competiveness, innovation and participation in trade
Efforts will include building on APEC’s Ease of Doing Business initiative, with a focus on start-ups and women-led firms. They will also leverage the region’s large, fast-growing internet user base to drive digital infrastructure and small business internationalization.
• Enhancing food security and sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change
Work will facilitate the transfer and application of new technologies to lift agricultural productivity, quality and sustainability. Improving resource management, upskilling of farmers, financing and market access, and trade and investment within the sector will be an additional focus.
Press-release at the APEC official web-site