Decoding the ‘informal’ APEC

Shenzhen will host the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting this November. Given its significance, why is the summit described as “informal”?

The term dates to the first leaders’ meeting in 1993, when the then-host, the U.S., proposed elevating APEC from ministerial gatherings to a leaders’ forum. Because the proposal lacked unanimous support, the meeting was labeled “informal” — a designation that has since become customary.

This informality is embedded in APEC’s institutional design: Its agenda is deliberately flexible, enabling leaders to hold open discussions and offer broad strategic guidance without fixed topics or formal protocols.

APEC outputs are initiatives rather than legally binding agreements. Commitments rely on voluntary implementation, allowing members to pursue cooperation according to their development stages and national circumstances.