APEC economies outline AI cooperation priorities for Asia-Pacific

APEC member economies have outlined four priorities for artificial intelligence cooperation across the Asia-Pacific, covering secure development, responsible adoption, innovation and broader participation.

The priorities were set out in a statement issued at the APEC High-Level Forum on AI, hosted by China in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, on July 24 under the theme "Promoting AI Development for Good and for All."

Member economies reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening exchanges, building consensus, expanding cooperation and promoting AI innovation. They also pledged to further implement the APEC Putrajaya Vision 2040, the APEC Internet and Digital Economy Roadmap and the APEC AI Initiative (2026-2030).

Recognizing the different needs of APEC economies, the statement encouraged members to share experiences and promote the responsible development and adoption of AI across the region.

Promote the secure development and deployment of AI

The statement called for AI development that prioritizes security while supporting innovation aimed at addressing risks and benefiting the public. It encouraged economies to exchange best practices in developing reliable, accessible, scalable, trusted, secure and resilient AI infrastructure and improving access to digital infrastructure. Member economies also said they would work to facilitate cross-border data flows while strengthening consumer and business trust.

Accelerate the responsible adoption of AI applications

The statement encouraged economies to create conditions for AI to support economic growth and become integrated across industries and society. It called for accessible education and training resources to improve AI literacy and skills, and recognized AI's growing role in facilitating trade, modernizing customs procedures and improving business competitiveness.

Foster an enabling environment for AI innovation

The statement welcomed market-oriented and innovation-driven policies supporting the development and wider adoption of AI. It encouraged economies to address risks while promoting responsible use and to support open-source models and projects with strong safeguards throughout their development and deployment, while respecting security, data protection and intellectual property rights.

Foster broad-based cooperation to maximize participation and benefits across APEC

The statement called for stronger capacity building and knowledge sharing among APEC economies, as well as cooperation with the public and private sectors. These efforts are intended to help all member economies participate in the AI-driven economy and share its benefits more widely.

Member economies also committed to holding AI policy dialogues during plenary meetings of the APEC Digital Economy Steering Group. The discussions will cover AI innovation, adoption, access and other emerging issues as the technology develops.