How does APEC differ from the World Trade Organization (WTO)?
APEC and the WTO are complementary in that both are working towards the same goals of free and open trade and investment across borders. APEC is the only inter governmental grouping in the world operating on the basis of non-binding commitments, open dialogue and equal respect for the views of all participants. Unlike the WTO or other multilateral trade bodies, APEC has no treaty obligations required of its participants. Decisions made within APEC are reached by consensus and commitments are undertaken on a voluntary basis.
