APEC official anticipates China to be 2026 host, emphasizing innovation, connectivity

APEC official anticipates China to be 2026 host, emphasizing innovation, connectivity
Reuters

Executive Director of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Secretariat Eduardo Pedrosa said China is expected to host the APEC summit in 2026, noting that the country’s future policy priorities will play a key role in shaping the regional agenda.

Speaking to China Central Television (CCTV) on the sidelines of the APEC CEO Summit in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea, Pedrosa said member economies are watching closely to see how Beijing defines its next phase of development and engagement with the Asia-Pacific region.

“We'll have to wait till the Chinese government comes out with its priorities,” Pedrosa said. “We're looking for more openness, a focus on innovation and on cooperation as well. Connectivity has been something that China has focused on over the past 10 years at least, building throughout its rail network. Are there lessons that can be learned through their own domestic processes as well?”

He added that China’s trade transformation over the past few decades offers valuable insights into how economies adapt to global shifts. “What is China exporting now compared to 25 years ago? All of our economies go through changes. So, it'll be interesting to hear through the next plan and through the APEC hosting what we can learn from that,” he said.

China’s previous APEC hosting in 2014 in Beijing underscored themes of regional connectivity and trade liberalisation. The 2026 summit is expected to further expand discussions on innovation, digital economy, and sustainable growth as member economies navigate a rapidly changing global landscape.

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