APEC officials have called for closer regional cooperation on artificial intelligence, digitalisation and connectivity as the third Senior Officials’ Meeting and Related Meetings of APEC China 2026 concluded in Dalian, northeast China.

The nearly two-week gathering brought together officials and delegates from the 21 APEC economies for discussions spanning digital innovation, AI, trade and regional connectivity. Participants highlighted opportunities to strengthen cooperation with China, particularly in developing AI governance frameworks and advancing digital trade.

Papua New Guinea said it could benefit from greater support in developing and regulating AI, while Singapore highlighted its close cooperation with China on trade digitalisation and efforts to promote an open, transparent regional trading environment.

The meetings also produced six new bilateral customs agreements, introducing smart customs solutions and mutual quarantine recognition to help reduce trade barriers and facilitate cross-border flows.

The Dalian meetings set the stage for the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Shenzhen on Nov. 18 and 19.