APEC health officials met to set health priorities for 2026, highlighting how aging populations, rising costs and workforce pressures are increasingly shaping economic performance across the region. Health was framed not only as a social concern, but also as a foundation for resilience and long-term growth.
Discussions focused on strengthening primary and community-based care, supported by digital transformation and artificial intelligence. Officials highlighted prevention, chronic disease management, mental health and healthy aging as key areas for coordinated action.
Health financing and brain health also featured prominently, with attention to sustainable reforms and technology-enabled care. Officials agreed that resilient, digitally enabled health systems are essential for both population wellbeing and economic stability.
Reference: Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Health Working Group. (2026, February 5). APEC health officials chart 2026 health priorities. https://www.apec.org/press/news-releases/2026/apec-health-officials-chart-2026-health-priorities