APEC 2023 will advance work on renewed conversations on the FTAAP agenda, especially on inclusive trade and multi-stakeholder engagement.

By utilizing digital tools and bringing SMEs closer to the fore of innovation, economies can promote broader SME economic engagement. APEC 2023 will continue to integrate SME and equity-related workstreams.

Creating the conditions for a more productive and inclusive labor force means using targeted public expenditures and supporting policies to invest in high-quality infrastructure, promote workforce development, and facilitate the participation of workers who have traditionally faced barriers to the labor market.

APEC 2023 can maintain momentum in applying a gender lens to policy areas such as agriculture, customs, e-commerce, infrastructure, energy, climate resilience, structural reform, services, trade, MSMEs, STEM fields, the future of work, and health.

At the core of equitably distributed prosperity is the elevation of workers and their voices in setting economic policy throughout the region. Increasing APEC’s outreach to existing and new stakeholders can reduce barriers to participation in APEC, and help disadvantaged groups and labor organizations engage in the policy process.

In 2023, APEC intends to include and elevate the voices of underserved and underrepresented segments of the population to ensure that economic policies are developed with representation from all communities, affording equitable economic opportunities to people, regardless of background.