Live: How should we understand China's role in RCEP trade deal?
Updated 07:52, 20-Nov-2020

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), signed by 15 Asia-Pacific countries on Monday, is the world's largest trade deal and it promises to lower tariffs, strengthen supply chains and improve market access in participating economies. The timing couldn't be better, as many economies have been battered by the COVID-19 pandemic and looking for ways to bounce back. The trade deal has been called a victory for multilateralism and free trade, and it's a testament to what's possible when countries come together and cooperate. 

However, some media are turning the news into one more "China threat" story. They say China is using the deal to extend its influence in the region or as a counterweight to the U.S. 

What details have media misrepresented or left out? How significant is the RCEP for the region? Don't miss out on this week's Headline Buster.