China to Host APEC 2026, Emphasizes Multilateralism

The 32nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Gyeongju concluded with Chinese President Xi Jinping announcing Shenzhen will host the 33rd APEC in 2026 and promoting a theme of “Building an Inclusive Open Asia‑Pacific Economy for All.” Beijing framed itself as a defender of multilateralism, urging protection of the multilateral trading system, stable supply chains, and digital and green transformation of trade. Chinese authorities and business leaders signaled a shift toward high‑standard institutional opening‑up — including shortening negative lists, piloting free‑trade zones and measures in the Hainan free‑trade port — as part of the 15th Five‑Year push for high‑quality development. CEOs at the APEC CEO Summit expressed confidence in China’s capacity to host and spur innovation and sustainable regional growth, while observers warned rhetoric must be matched by practical reforms amid rising trade restrictions and weak trade forecasts. China pointed to recent trade and investment records — ranking as the world’s largest goods trader, second in services, and attracting more than $700 billion in foreign investment in recent years — to argue it can be a hub for regional prosperity while aligning rules with international norms.