Shenzhen ready to host APEC 2026, officials say

Detailed summary

Shenzhen is officially ready to host the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting on November 18 and 19, local officials confirmed on Saturday.

A press briefing for the 2026 APEC Economic Leaders' Week was held in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, southern China, on November 14, 2026. /Xinhua

Shenzhen is officially ready to host the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting on November 18 and 19, local officials confirmed on Saturday.

Organizers have upgraded key venues, conducted rehearsals, and infused the event with green practices, digital tech and traditional Lingnan culture, Wang Xi, deputy head of the provincial preparatory leading group, said.

Additionally, currency exchanges will be possible at some 1,600 bank branches and tax refunds in 3,160 shops, including more than 1,000 offering instant refunds.

During the meeting week, Guangdong is offering 218 visitor sites and 43 travel routes, including two showcase routes in Shenzhen.

Shenzhen Mayor Li Yun said the city has boosted transport, power, communications and hotel services while minimizing disruptions to residents' daily lives.

Meanwhile, the city's economy is booming. Shenzhen has become the first city on the Chinese mainland to top 5 trillion yuan (about $ 744.6 billion) in foreign trade. Customs data shows imports and exports hitting 5.25 trillion yuan in the first 10 months of the year, a 40.9% jump year on year. Exports rose 19.7% to 2.71 trillion yuan, while imports surged 73.7% to 2.54 trillion yuan.

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