Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation

The purpose of Canada’s membership in APEC is to sustain Canadian influence on economic integration and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region (e.g. trade liberalization and facilitation, economic development, human security). Active engagement in APEC ensures that Canada maintains the necessary visibility and credibility to be a valued Asia-Pacific partner (Canada is not a member of other Asian organizations). APEC is the only Asia-Pacific forum which allows Canada both Leaders-level and sustained official-level networking with 20 Pacific Rim economies. It also provides a venue in which to bring forward G8 and G20 initiatives to a broader audience.