Chinese Scholar: Vietnam’s Role in APEC Is Growing
Fudan University scholar Triệu Vệ Hoa says Vietnam’s expanding economy is helping it move from an active APEC member to a connector and a source of cooperation proposals. Vietnam is set to host APEC in 2027, after putting forward three proposals at the 2026 ministerial meeting.
Triệu Vệ Hoa, director of Fudan University’s Center for the Study of China’s Relations with Neighboring Countries, told the Vietnam News Agency that Vietnam’s role in APEC is shifting from active participation in cooperation toward connecting members and proposing cooperative initiatives. He said economic growth and an expanding market are important drivers of this change. Vietnam joined APEC in 1998, hosted it in 2006 and 2017, and is set to host it again in 2027.
Triệu Vệ Hoa, director of Fudan University’s Center for the Study of China’s Relations with Neighboring Countries, is interviewed by the Vietnam News Agency.（VietVance）
Triệu Vệ Hoa said Vietnam’s participation in both the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership helps it coordinate between different approaches to trade liberalization. He also said Vietnam’s extensive economic and trade ties with several major economies, and its participation in global supply chains, enable it to serve as a bridge when members discuss trade and investment.
At the 2026 APEC Ministerial Meeting, Vietnamese Foreign Minister Lê Hoài Trung put forward three proposals: applying artificial intelligence and digital technologies responsibly; building an open, connected Asia-Pacific region; and strengthening resilience while ensuring food and energy security. Triệu Vệ Hoa said the proposals show Vietnam taking a more active role in shaping the agenda.
China is hosting APEC in 2026, with Vietnam set to follow in 2027. Triệu Vệ Hoa said coordination between the two countries during the handover would help maintain continuity in cooperation. He also said APEC’s key challenge is turning its agenda into concrete actions acceptable to all members.
Source: VietVance
