The broad consensus at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, which features some of the world's most powerful leaders on both sides of the Pacific, is that free trade is a force for good. A draft seen by AFP praises open markets, denounces protectionism and warns that curbing free trade will slow the ongoing recovery of the world economy. He campaigned against the proposal as a "terrible deal" that would "rape" the United States by sending American jobs to countries with cheaper labor. During a vitriol-filled campaign, Trump frequently took a combative stance against China, blaming Beijing for "inventing" climate change and rigging the rules of trade. It is also pushing a 16-member Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) that excludes the United States.

Source: The Nation Bangkok November 20, 2016 11:20 UTC