The APEC CEO Summit 2025 is set to take place from October 28 to 31, 2025, in Gyeongju, South Korea, bringing together over 1,200 business leaders and policymakers to discuss pressing issues facing the Asia-Pacific economy. This summit marks a critical juncture for regional collaboration, aiming to redefine dialogue through data-driven insights and thought leadership.
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) has evolved since its inception in 1993, when the first CEO Summit was held in Seattle. Today, APEC comprises 21 member economies that collectively represent nearly half of global trade and approximately 60% of global GDP, positioning it as a vital player in shaping the international economic landscape.
Insights from Deloitte’s CEO Survey
Deloitte, acting as the exclusive Knowledge Partner for the summit, will present findings from its inaugural APEC CEO Survey report. This extensive survey gathers insights from 1,252 senior executives across 18 APEC member economies, highlighting both opportunities and challenges that businesses face in this rapidly changing region.
The report reveals a complex business environment characterized by global economic uncertainty, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and technological advancements. Despite the challenges, the summit aims to strengthen trade cooperation while driving sustainable development across the Asia-Pacific region.
During the event, Deloitte’s experts will lead discussions that emphasize the summit’s theme, “Bridge, Business, Beyond.” Key topics will include digital transformation, sustainability, and innovative trade practices.
Business Optimism Amid Uncertainty
The Deloitte APEC CEO Survey 2025 indicates a significant divergence in sentiment regarding economic outlooks. While less than 45% of executives expressed optimism about the global economy, a notable 72% reported a positive outlook for their own companies.
“APEC’s CEOs are not retreating in the face of uncertainty,” stated David Hill, CEO of Deloitte Asia Pacific. “They are leaning in and practicing what we call ‘expansive resilience’—turning disruption into opportunity, and volatility into advantage.” This resilience is a reflection of the region’s ability to navigate past crises, including the pandemic and shifting trade dynamics.
Deloitte’s survey indicates a proactive approach to growth, with 42% of APEC leaders identifying technology adoption as their primary growth driver. Presently, 60% of companies utilize artificial intelligence across various functions, such as customer engagement and supply chain management. Looking ahead, the focus is expected to shift toward new products and innovation, emphasizing a creative approach to growth.
In response to geopolitical complexities, over half of the CEOs surveyed intend to expand their supply chains in the coming year. Additionally, 59% plan to increase investments in sustainability, aligning business practices with pressing environmental priorities.
The survey also highlights a growing interest in mergers and acquisitions, with 39% of leaders planning to pursue deals, particularly in the energy and life sciences sectors. This trend reflects a cautious yet opportunistic approach to growth in the region.
Deloitte’s role as the APEC CEO Summit’s Knowledge Partner underscores its commitment to fostering collaboration and progress. With over 110,000 professionals across 23 geographical regions, Deloitte combines global perspectives with local insights, providing valuable intelligence to drive resilience and growth.
Through the APEC CEO Survey and its involvement in the summit, Deloitte aims to support economies as they adapt to change and pursue new opportunities. By integrating quantitative research with cross-sector collaboration, the organization equips leaders with the necessary tools to navigate today’s complex business environment.
For more information on the Deloitte APEC CEO Survey 2025, visit their official website.
