From the futuristic skyline to its buzzing smart factories, Shenzhen has always been a spotlight for innovation. Now, the southern city of the Chinese mainland is set to host the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in November 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced in Gyeongju, the Republic of Korea. 🚀
This will be the third time China has welcomed APEC top leaders, after Beijing in 2001 and 2014. Shenzhen’s journey from a reform-era testing ground to a tech powerhouse makes it a perfect stage for shaping the future of the Asia-Pacific.
Xi highlighted China’s plan to use this moment to supercharge the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) and boost practical cooperation in connectivity, the digital economy, and artificial intelligence. Think faster e-commerce, smarter supply chains, and AI solutions that tackle real-world challenges. 🤖
China’s track record speaks volumes: since joining APEC in 1991, trade liberalization and investment have grown steadily. From January to September 2025, trade with fellow APEC members rose 2%, hitting 19.4 trillion yuan (around $2.7 trillion). A recent poll even shows over 80% support for China’s vision of an open, inclusive, and innovation-driven community. 🌏
At the heart of the plan are three big ideas:
- Unleash digital and smart development 🌐
- Commit to green and low-carbon growth 🌱
- Build an inclusive future that benefits everyone 🤝
China has already rolled out major moves: proposing a World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, submitting 2035 climate targets, and funding an APEC Support Fund sub-fund dedicated to digital green transitions.
Eduardo Pedrosa, executive director of the APEC Secretariat, praised these efforts as a powerful boost for regional prosperity. With all APEC members joining forces, the next chapter for Asia-Pacific could be the greenest and smartest yet. 💡
As 2026 draws near, all eyes will be on Shenzhen—where ideas, tech, and sustainability meet to shape a brighter future for everyone in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
