Trump takes center stage at APEC–yet Asia's business leaders are optimistic that multilateralism will prevail.

The article focuses on the recent APEC Summit held in Gyeongju, South Korea, where discussions centered around U.S.-China trade relations and broader economic cooperation among Asia-Pacific nations. Key takeaways include a cautious optimism regarding multilateral trade agreements, with U.S. President Donald Trump solidifying deals with Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN nations, despite some investor disappointment over the lack of a comprehensive trade agreement. Energy discussions highlighted a shift towards sustainability, with nearly 60% of APEC leaders planning to invest more in sustainable practices. Additionally, South Korea's advancements in strategic technologies and cultural influence were noted, emphasizing its growing role in the global economy. [Extracted from the article]