The 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, held in Gyeongju, South Korea, in late October and early November 2025, provided a significant platform for Thailand, assuming the role of APEC Chair, to advance its economic interests and project its influence within the regional framework. This chairmanship, lasting until 2026, presents a complex balancing act, demanding strategic engagement across key sectors while navigating evolving geopolitical realities, particularly concerning China’s growing economic and political leverage within the organization. The meeting’s outcomes and Thailand’s subsequent actions represent a critical test of its ability to foster cooperation and maintain a stable, multi-polar APEC.
The immediate context surrounding Thailand’s chairmanship is shaped by several interconnected trends. China’s dominance within APEC, evidenced by its vast economic size and increasingly assertive diplomatic approach, necessitates a nuanced strategy from Thailand. Simultaneously, the ongoing technological revolution, specifically the rapid development of artificial intelligence, offers Thailand both opportunities and potential vulnerabilities. The adoption of the 2025 APEC Leaders’ Gyeongju Declaration, alongside the APEC Artificial Intelligence Initiative, signals a deliberate effort to engage with these developments. However, the speed and scope of AI deployment, coupled with concerns about data security and potential job displacement, will require careful management.
Key Stakeholders and Motivations:
- Thailand: Driven by a long-standing ambition to solidify its position as a regional economic powerhouse, Thailand seeks to leverage APEC to attract foreign investment, promote trade liberalization, and enhance its connectivity within the global economy. The Prime Minister’s stated priorities – encompassing AI development, combating cybercrime, and promoting sustainable development – reflect a desire to modernize the Thai economy and address pressing social challenges.
- China: As the largest economy within APEC, China’s motivations are primarily focused on expanding its economic influence, securing access to resources, and shaping regional trade rules. China’s influence within APEC has increased significantly over the past decade, and Thailand’s leadership will require careful diplomacy to mitigate any potential friction.
- United States: The U.S., despite some shifts in its engagement with APEC, remains a vital partner and advocate for free and open markets. Maintaining a cooperative relationship with Thailand is strategically important for Washington, particularly given concerns about China’s growing economic power.
- South Korea and other APEC Economies: These economies, often focused on innovation and technological advancements, bring distinct priorities to the table, including promoting digital trade and supporting sustainable growth.
Recent Developments (Past Six Months): Thailand’s APEC chairmanship began with a renewed emphasis on digital trade, following a series of bilateral agreements aimed at facilitating cross-border data flows. The country also initiated discussions on harmonizing regulations related to e-commerce, a move designed to boost trade and attract investment. Furthermore, the Thailand Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre, which was expanded and integrated into APEC’s cybercrime initiatives, demonstrated Thailand’s commitment to tackling transnational criminal activities – a priority shared by many APEC members. The 2025 APEC CEO Summit in Bangkok, as detailed in official reports, showcased Thailand’s attempts to attract international business and promote investment.
Future Impact & Insight:
- Short-Term (Next 6 Months): Thailand will likely continue to focus on solidifying its role as a facilitator of digital trade and combating cybercrime. Success will depend on its ability to secure buy-in from key economies, particularly the US and China. The resolution of ongoing disputes regarding data localization regulations will be crucial.
- Long-Term (5–10 Years): Thailand’s APEC chairmanship presents an opportunity to potentially shape the future of regional trade rules and promote innovation. However, the long-term success of the chairmanship hinges on Thailand’s ability to maintain a neutral stance, skillfully navigate geopolitical tensions, and foster genuine collaboration among APEC members. The handover of the APEC Chairmanship to China in 2026 will undoubtedly present both challenges and opportunities for Thailand, requiring continued strategic engagement and a sustained commitment to regional cooperation. The potential for further fragmentation within the APEC framework, driven by differing economic and geopolitical priorities, remains a significant concern.
Call to Reflection: The Thailand APEC Chairmanship serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges facing the international economic order. How effectively can smaller economies, like Thailand, leverage regional institutions to promote their interests while simultaneously mitigating the influence of dominant powers? The decisions made during this period will likely shape the trajectory of APEC for years to come.