China will host the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Shenzhen in November 2026. President Xi Jinping made this announcement during the closing session of the current APEC meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea, on November 1. The summit will gather leaders from 21 Asia-Pacific nations to discuss major economic issues.
Shenzhen, a major city in Guangdong province, has become synonymous with technological innovation and rapid economic growth since its establishment as a Special Economic Zone in 1980. Xi noted that next year’s meeting will represent a significant platform for fostering economic collaboration and dialogue among member economies.
This marked a notable moment in APEC’s history, as it will be China’s third time hosting this significant economic gathering. Xi emphasized the importance of mutual cooperation in overcoming challenges facing the region, including global supply chain disruptions and economic recovery post-COVID-19.
During the ongoing meeting in Gyeongju, leaders discussed several pressing topics, including climate change, trade policies, and international economic collaboration. The APEC forum aims to promote free trade and encourage economic growth among its member countries.
Xi’s assurance about Shenzhen’s role as the host city aligns with China’s ambition to position itself as a central economic hub in the Asia-Pacific region. The leaders at the summit look forward to transformative discussions that could shape the economic landscape for years to come.
As the world faces varying economic recovery rates post-pandemic, APEC 2026 aims to unite these 21 economies toward shared prosperity and resilient trade practices.