BEIJING: China will host next year’s APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in November 2026, President Xi Jinping announced on Saturday. The summit will take place in the bustling metropolis of Shenzhen, a city known for its rapid growth and technological advancements.
This significant announcement occurred during the closing session of the current APEC summit held in Gyeongju, South Korea. Leaders from 21 nations in the Asian and Pacific Rim region, including Australia, the United States, and Japan, gather annually to discuss economic cooperation and promote free trade across the Pacific.
Shenzhen, often referred to as China’s Silicon Valley, has developed into a global technology hub. With a population exceeding 13 million, it boasts a vibrant economy characterized by innovation and digital enterprises. Hosting the APEC summit in such a dynamic location underscores China’s growing influence in global economic matters.
This APEC summit will mark China’s third time acting as host, a move that reflects its strong commitment to regional economic integration. As President Xi noted, the meeting will provide an opportunity to enhance collaboration among member economies to stimulate growth and respond to global challenges.
APEC’s agenda frequently focuses on trade, investment, and economic resilience, which are particularly critical in the current global landscape marked by the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. By convening leaders in Shenzhen, China aims to reinforce its role as a facilitator of economic dialogue and progress in the Asia-Pacific region.
The announcement of the 2026 APEC summit at Shenzhen has garnered positive reactions from various member countries, which view the event as a chance to foster collaboration in overcoming shared economic challenges. Duterte, the President of the Philippines, stated, “We look forward to constructive discussions and initiatives that will benefit the people of our nations.”
As the world anticipates the upcoming summit, experts suggest that it could address pressing issues like supply chain disruptions and climate change, paving the way for a cohesive approach to these global crises. The summit promises to be a pivotal event that reinforces alliances and fosters economic partnership across the Pacific.
