Big Take How APEC Become a Battleground for US-China Influence
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Nov 4, 2025 In this discussion, Adam Farrar, a senior geoeconomics analyst for Asia-Pacific at Bloomberg, delves into the balancing act Asian nations face between the U.S. and China. He examines why APEC has lost its policy clout yet remains significant for smaller economies, like Taiwan. Farrar highlights the lasting impacts of U.S. trade policies, Trump's selective engagement in Asia, and Xi Jinping's efforts to position China as a reliable trade partner. The conversation wraps up with insights on the complex dynamics shaping regional trade and security.
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APEC Still Matters As A Convening Hub
- APEC's policy role is declining but it remains valuable as a convening forum for diverse leaders and businesses.
- Taiwan's inclusion gives it unique bilateral access that smaller economies rely on.
Multilateral Forums Losing Policy Clout
- APEC and G20 have lost policy-moving power as major participants diverge in objectives.
- Smaller economies still prize leader access and bilateral meetings more than grand multilateral outcomes.
Allies Bear Scars From Trade Wars
- Adam Farrar recounts deep scars among U.S. allies from past trade treatment during the trade war era.
- He notes that recent agreements elevated Korea and Japan as preferred trade partners despite past grievances.