In Shenzhen on December 12, 2025, senior officials from APEC economies gathered to begin shaping the agenda for the Asia-Pacific Economies Cooperation forum in 2026, which China will host. China unveiled the official theme for APEC 2026 as “Building an Asia-Pacific Community Together”. Which emphasizes the need for greater unity and coordinated regional action in the face of rising protectionism, anti-globalization pressures, and slow economic growth.
However, Deputy Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu highlighted that maintaining openness, fostering innovation, and strengthening cooperation will be central to achieving the vision. Openness is portrayed as fundamental to regional prosperity, with China noting significant tariff reductions among APEC economies over time. Calling for continued support of the multilateral trading system, resilient supply chains, stronger regional connectivity, and advancement of the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP).
Innovation, especially in digital technologies and artificial intelligence, is presented as a key driver of future growth. China advocating deeper collaboration on frontier technologies, expansion of digital public services, and equitable technological benefits across the region. Cooperation is framed as indispensable for inclusive and balanced development, warranting enhanced coordination in fiscal policies, food security, energy, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, transportation, tourism, workforce development, and public health so that no economy or community is left behind.
Shenzhen, long recognized as a major hub of foreign trade and innovation, is highlighted as a fitting venue and will host the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in November 2026. Ambassador Chen Xu, chairing the Senior Officials’ Meeting, introduced the APEC 2026 logo inspired by the mythic Peng bird, symbolizing the 21 APEC member economies working collaboratively toward shared prosperity. APEC 2026 will include the first five-year review of the Aotearoa Plan of Action, offering an opportunity to assess and adjust progress toward the 2040 vision of an open, dynamic, resilient and peaceful Asia-Pacific community.With technical meetings scheduled to begin in February 2026 in Guangzhou.
Reference:
APEC. (2025, diciembre 12). China unveils APEC 2026 theme and priorities in Shenzhen. APEC. https://www.apec.org/press/news-releases/2025/china-unveils-apec-2026-theme-and-priorities-in-shenzhen