Digital Cooperation, AI Key Drivers Of Economic Integration, Says APEC Official

KUALA LUMPUR, June 6 (Bernama) -- Digital cooperation and artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming key drivers of economic integration and business development across regions, according to APEC Secretariat Executive Director Eduardo Pedrosa.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with TV BRICS at the Roscongress International Cooperation Area during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), Pedrosa said the global economy is undergoing rapid technological transformation largely driven by the private sector.

“What we are seeing today is an enormous wave of technological change. Everything is moving very quickly, mostly driven by the private sector,” he said on Friday.

Pedrosa noted that APEC adopts a principle-based and non-prescriptive approach, allowing member economies to implement agreed frameworks according to their own national circumstances, thereby enabling greater flexibility in digital economy policymaking.

He said various regional initiatives, including digital economy agreements and e-commerce frameworks, demonstrate how digital integration is evolving through multiple complementary models across APEC, ASEAN and other groupings.

According to Pedrosa, this diversity of approaches creates opportunities for mutual learning, particularly in areas such as regulation, implementation and innovation policy.

On small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), he said digital platforms and AI are significantly lowering barriers to market entry and helping businesses expand internationally.

“When we integrate artificial intelligence into these systems, businesses can better understand consumer preferences.

“This allows products and services to be targeted more precisely and helps companies identify markets they may never have considered before,” he said, adding that this is how AI and digital technologies can help SMEs expand globally while still operating within local markets.

Pedrosa also highlighted the role of forums such as SPIEF, as well as APEC and ASEAN business dialogue mechanisms in facilitating engagement between governments and the private sector on emerging economic trends and opportunities.

“I am still learning more about this forum, but what I already see is a strong sense of enthusiasm among businesses regarding the next phase of economic development.

“There is also a great deal of networking taking place,” he said, adding that ongoing dialogue is essential as technological shifts such as the platform economy and quantum technologies continue to reshape the global digital landscape.

-- BERNAMA