The 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting is set to take place from November 18 to 19, 2026, in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province on the southern Chinese mainland. As one of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation's flagship events, APEC gathers heads of state and government, along with business and civil society leaders, to advance trade, digital innovation, and sustainable development across its 21 member economies.
Why Shenzhen? Once dubbed China's Silicon Valley, Shenzhen has transformed from a fishing village into a megacity of 17.5 million residents and a GDP exceeding 3.2 trillion yuan in 2024. Its thriving tech ecosystem—home to giants in hardware manufacturing, fintech, and e-commerce—makes it a fitting venue for discussions on the digital economy, next-generation supply chains, and cross-border investment.
This year's agenda will spotlight emerging trends shaping the global marketplace. Sessions on AI-powered logistics, green finance, and resilient supply chains aim to bridge the digital divide and foster inclusive growth. Young entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts can look forward to parallel forums showcasing startups and innovation labs, while thought leaders and policymakers debate pathways to carbon neutrality.
For travelers and digital nomads, Shenzhen offers a blend of high-speed rail connections, bike-friendly urban parks, and creative hubs like OCT Loft. Sustainable tourism initiatives, from electric ferry services to eco-conscious dining, are reshaping the visitor experience. Music festivals, esports tournaments, and pop-up galleries add a cultural pulse to the city's futuristic skyline.
As the countdown to November 2026 begins, all eyes will be on Shenzhen's role in steering the Asia-Pacific toward a more connected, innovative, and sustainable future.
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2026 APEC meeting to be held on Nov. 18-19 in China's Shenzhen
cgtn.com
