APEC Ministers for Trade Meeting

This week I will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.

At APEC I will advocate Australia's support for economic openness and a rules-based multilateral trading system. I will also reiterate the importance of a collective response to challenges facing regional and global trade, including rising protectionist sentiments.

I welcome PNG's focus on the digital economy and inclusive opportunities. I will discuss Australia's work on these objectives, including boosting women's economic empowerment and maximising opportunities for growth through digital trade.  

APEC's 21 members account for 60 per cent of the world's GDP and 72 per cent of Australia's trade in goods and services. Australia's participation in APEC strengthens our relationships with key economic partners, enhances export opportunities and helps drive Australia's economic growth.

I look forward to meeting my trade representative counterparts in Port Moresby to promote Australia's ambitious trade agenda.