APEC pushes AI integration and online IP protections to boost regional trade

Thailand’s Department of Trade Negotiations (DTN) has unveiled key developments from the 3rd APEC Committee on Trade and Investment (CTI) meeting held in China, highlighting a unified push to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into regional trade strategies and strengthen protections against online intellectual property (IP) infringement.

DTN Director General Chotima Iemsawasdikul revealed that APEC member economies exchanged insights on deploying digital tools and robotics to streamline trade, boost capacity and drive regional economic activities.

Discussions centred on developing dedicated AI provisions for future free trade and regional trade agreements, under the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) framework, ensuring trade rules adapt to rapid technological evolution.

Members also advocated for the establishment of an ‘Asia-Pacific AI Centre’ to foster innovation, upgrade workforce skills, guarantee AI safety and facilitate knowledge sharing.

These initiatives align with the CTI’s core focus on openness, innovation and cross-border cooperation.

Addressing growing challenges in the digital economy, Chotima noted that APEC is stepping up joint efforts to combat the rise of counterfeit and pirated goods sold across borders via e-commerce platforms.

She added that these steps underscore APEC’s readiness for the digital trade era by refining regulatory frameworks, removing technical barriers and safeguarding IP assets to create a more conductive investment climate across the region.

APEC comprises 21 member economies, including Thailand, the United States, China, Japan and Australia.

In 2025, Thailand's trade with APEC nations reached US$494.65 billion, accounting for 72.26% of the kingdom's total trade volume, with exports valued at US$237.58 billion and imports standing at US$257.06 billion.