The 2009 APEC Meetings and U.S. Trade Policy in Asia

Michael F. Martin | Congressional Research Service | 2010-02-04

This report presents an overview and an analysis of the 2009 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Meetings within the context of U.S. trade policy in Asia. "Critics of APEC have referred to the association as a 'talk shop,' that has produced few results," states the report's summary. "However, studies conducted by APEC reveal a substantial drop in members’ average tariff rates, the elimination of a number of non-tariff trade barriers, and a major reduction in the transaction costs associated with international trade—all of which is likely attributable at least in part to APEC initiatives."