In the era of globalization, digital trade has emerged as a critical engine of economic development, especially for countries within the Asia-Pacific region. This paper examines the legal mechanisms established within the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) to regulate, facilitate, and promote digital trade. APEC, while not a treaty-based organization, has developed a robust framework of soft law instruments, institutional coordination platforms, and non-binding guidelines that shape digital trade governance across its diverse member economies. The study analyzes the institutional legal tools employed by key APEC bodies, such as the Digital Economy Steering Group (DESG), the Electronic Commerce Steering Group (ECSG), and the Policy Support Unit (PSU) to address challenges related to data flows, digital standards, cybersecurity, and trade facilitation. Special attention is given to how APEC’s legal-institutional model complements global trade norms while supporting regional economic development. The paper argues that APEC’s flexible and consensus-based legal framework not only reflects the realities of economic diversity but also serves as a potential model for digital economic cooperation in other regional contexts. Ultimately, this research contributes to a better understanding of how regional legal mechanisms can foster inclusive growth in a globalized digital economy.
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Share and Cite
Zhou, Y. (2025) APEC Legal Mechanisms for Digital Trade under Globalization. Journal of Social Development and History, 1(5), 99-104. https://doi.org/10.71052/jsdh/GOAO4958