The inaugural event of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) China Year—the First APEC Senior Officials’ Meeting for 2026—took place in Guangzhou, drawing more than 1,000 participants from 21 APEC economies and three observer organizations.

Under the theme ‘Building an Asia-Pacific Community for Shared Prosperity’, discussions centred on three priorities: openness, innovation, and cooperation. Over ten days, more than 70 sessions and side events were held, addressing trade and investment, the digital economy, food security, health, and other key areas.

Five curated city tours were organized, linking landmarks such as the Canton Fair Complex, the Guangzhou Cultural Centre, Haizhu Wetland Park, economic zones, technology enterprises, the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Yongqing Fang, and ancient villages. These visits showcased Guangzhou’s dynamism across business, the economy, ecology, and culture.

Participants highlighted Guangzhou’s advances in autonomous driving and artificial intelligence, as well as its commitment to preserving cultural heritage and the environment. They also expressed strong interest in deepening cooperation with China for mutual benefit.