This study builds on previous APEC Policy Support Unit (PSU) reports that have contributed to ESAP with the intention to advance the liberalization of trade in environmental services. It addresses challenges related to the definition and scope of environmental services and considers how domestic regulations can hinder international trade in environmental services by discouraging the participation of foreign service providers.

The study highlights the need to build domestic human capacity to deliver environmental services to ensure high quality service provision and to encourage economies to adopt more progressive positions regarding trade liberalization. The study also identifies the needs of developing economies in this area, as well as some existing measures and good practices.

The research includes findings from discussions with experts from government, industry, and academia in APEC and beyond. Stakeholders from various fields and professional backgrounds were consulted to reflect a range of perspectives and negotiating positions.