Shenzhen to take APEC center stage

China's announcement that Shenzhen will host next year's 33rd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders' Meeting has placed the coastal city in the spotlight.

It marks the third time for China to host APEC, following Shanghai in 2001 and Beijing in 2014.

APEC 2026 is poised to showcase Shenzhen's remarkable development and technological achievements, and highlight China's sustained contribution to shared prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region, according to observers.

Shenzhen, a metropolis in South China's Guangdong province, has been the focal point of China's reform and opening-up for the past 47 years, and has grown from being just a small fishing village into a miracle of economic liberalization.

Dai Yonghong, dean of Shenzhen University's College of International Studies, said the choice of the city to host APEC was of symbolic importance. "Shenzhen serves as a window showcasing China's development model, acting as a testing ground for the country's reform and opening-up, and standing as a prime example of the success," Dai said.

"Through the case of Shenzhen, China will also showcase at APEC — a platform focused on economy and cooperation — a Chinese path to modernization that has led to economic takeoff, particularly to developing countries," he added.

Shenzhen's GDP has skyrocketed from being just 270 million yuan ($37.95 million) in 1980, to 3.68 trillion yuan last year. In 2024, its total import and export value reached 4.5 trillion yuan, cementing its position as China's top foreign trade city.

Its evolution aligns with APEC's emphasis on open trade, digital transformation and sustainable growth. As a key engine of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the city serves as a platform for promoting new forms of globalization and regional integration.

Guo Wanda, executive vice-president of the Shenzhen-based China Development Institute, said the city's dynamism and innovative capacity reflect the very principles APEC advocates.

In addition, the city's stature as a hub of technological innovation — home to tech heavyweights such as Huawei, Tencent, BYD and DJI — reinforces China's commitment to high-quality development and self-reliance in science and technology.

Zeng Guosong, secretary-general of the International SparkLink Alliance, said APEC 2026 will be a valuable opportunity. "The event will focus global attention on Shenzhen's advancements in sectors such as wireless communication," he said. "We look forward to engaging with international partners and showcasing our standards and vision."

Beyond its economic and technological significance, the choice of Shenzhen is also a source of pride for local residents.

"Shenzhen represents openness, innovation and inclusion. I truly hope to volunteer during the event and help share the energy and passion of Chinese youth," said Ding Hui, a 22-year-old graduate student at South China Agricultural University, who was born and raised in the city.

Hosting an event of this scale will test and enhance Shenzhen's capabilities in conference organization, urban management and international exchanges. "It represents both a milestone and a catalyst — elevating Shenzhen's global profile while motivating further improvements in its soft power and infrastructure," said Guo from the China Development Institute.