As the Republic of Korea prepares to host world leaders in Gyeongju from October 31 to November 1, momentum around the 10th anniversary of its free trade agreement with the Chinese mainland is building. Over the past decade, the deal has paved the way for deeper economic integration, making the Chinese mainland South Korea’s top trading partner and the Republic of Korea the second-largest for the Chinese mainland.
According to data from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, bilateral trade volumes have surged, reflecting growing demand for electronics, green technology, and consumer goods across both markets. Young entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts are tapping into emerging opportunities, while sustainability advocates and policy makers track how this partnership shapes regional growth.
With the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting on the horizon, Gyeongju will become a hub for discussions on supply chain resilience, digital innovation, and sustainable finance. Thought leaders and changemakers will join business executives and cultural ambassadors in exploring new paths for collaboration that echo the FTA’s success story.
For global citizens and digital nomads, the strengthened trade ties signal a more connected landscape—from smoother business exchanges to enriched cultural tourism. As the FTA chapter reaches its 10-year mark, the stage is set not just for a milestone summit but for the next wave of cross-border ventures and cultural exchanges that will define the Asia-Pacific’s future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
