BEIJING, December 30, 2025
China and South Korea Push for Faster Free Trade Deal Amidst Geopolitical Shifts
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Negotiators from both nations met in Beijing to accelerate the second phase of their free trade agreement, signaling continued economic cooperation despite broader regional tensions.
- China and South Korea are prioritizing the acceleration of the second phase of their Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
- The talks focused on implementing agreements reached by the two countries’ heads of state.
- Both sides expressed willingness to address key issues and differences to achieve substantial progress.
- Discussions also included the China-ROK Free Trade Agreement’s implementation and China’s potential accession to the Digital Economic Partnership Agreement (DEPA).
China and South Korea are doubling down on economic ties, with high-level talks in Beijing aimed at speeding up negotiations for the second phase of their Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This push for closer economic integration comes as both nations navigate a complex geopolitical landscape. The agreement, if finalized, promises to unlock new opportunities for businesses and deepen trade relations between the two East Asian powers.
Building on Recent High-Level Discussions
International Trade Negotiator and Deputy Minister of Commerce Li Chenggang met with Yeo Han-koo, Director of the Trade and Negotiation Headquarters of South Korea’s Ministry of Industry and Trade, on December 30th. The meeting centered on putting into action the important consensus reached by the leaders of both countries, specifically regarding accelerating the second phase of the China-ROK Free Trade Agreement.
Li Chenggang emphasized that recent talks between the heads of state provided “strategic guidance” for the development of bilateral economic and trade relations. He also noted a previous meeting on December 12th, where Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao and Chairman Kim Jong-kwan of the Ministry of Trade and Industry of South Korea exchanged views on implementing the leaders’ consensus. China, according to Li Chenggang, is prepared to collaborate with South Korea to tackle key issues, navigate differences, and achieve substantial results in the FTA negotiations as quickly as possible.
A Mutual Commitment to Progress
Yeo Han-koo echoed this sentiment, stating a willingness to work alongside China, find common ground, and expedite the second phase of the South Korea-China Free Trade Agreement. He expressed a desire to reach a mutually beneficial and balanced outcome for both nations.
Beyond the FTA, the two sides also engaged in discussions regarding the effective implementation of the existing China-ROK Free Trade Agreement and China’s potential accession to the Digital Economic Partnership Agreement (DEPA). These conversations highlight a broader commitment to strengthening economic ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation in the digital economy.
