China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Monday signed the upgraded "Version 3.0" protocol of their free trade agreement during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, according to China Central Television (CCTV).

The new pact builds on the existing China-ASEAN FTA and RCEP frameworks, expanding cooperation into emerging areas, improving regulatory alignment, and promoting trade facilitation and inclusive growth.

Talks for the upgrade began in November 2022 and were completed in October 2024.