BOAO, Hainan — Economic linkages within Asia are continuing to grow stronger, with regional trade becoming increasingly interconnected, according to a new report issued by the Boao Forum for Asia.
The report, titled Asian Economic Outlook and Integration Progress Annual Report 2026, highlights a steady rise in intra-Asian trade dependence, which climbed from 56.3 percent in 2023 to 57.2 percent in 2024. This uptick reflects a broader shift among major economies in the region toward prioritizing trade with neighboring markets.
Trade activity across the Asia-Pacific is also showing renewed energy. Exchanges within ASEAN have picked up pace, while trade between ASEAN and China has been a key driver behind the overall rebound.
China’s export patterns are evolving as well. Shipments to emerging markets are expanding more rapidly than those to traditional partners like Japan and South Korea, underscoring China’s growing position as a central hub in regional trade. This role is supported by its large domestic market and strong supply of intermediate goods.
Beyond simple trade relationships, economic ties between China and its regional partners are becoming more deeply integrated. The report suggests these connections are shifting toward a model defined by shared growth and increasingly interconnected industrial and value chains.
At the same time, Asia’s role in the global services sector is undergoing a transformation. Backed by expanding digital infrastructure, strong consumer demand, and closer economic cooperation, the region is steadily moving from being a participant in global services trade to a leading force driving its growth.
Source : Xinhua News
