Summary
Founded in 1989, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is a regional forum of 21 member economies working together to promote trade, investment, and economic growth across the Asia-Pacific. In 2026, China hosts APEC under the theme “Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together,” with the main meetings taking place in Shenzhen on November 14-19, 2026.
What You Will Gain:
Insight into regional trade, investment, and economic policy
Access to research, reports, and data on the Asia-Pacific economy
Opportunities to take part in meetings, events, and APEC initiatives
Tools and resources for doing business across borders, such as the APEC Business Travel Card
Understanding of how digitalisation, AI, and the future of work are shaping the region
Who Can Join:
Governments and policymakers from member economies
Business leaders, entrepreneurs, and SMEs
Researchers, academics, and students
Organisations looking to connect with regional economic networks
Why Join:
APEC brings governments, businesses, and experts together in one place to tackle shared economic challenges. Through ministerial meetings, working groups, and capacity-building projects, participants can learn how cooperation is shaping regional trade, build connections, and explore business and policy opportunities across the Asia-Pacific.
One note: APEC is an intergovernmental forum, so membership is limited to its 21 economies. The “Who Can Join” list reflects who can take part in or engage with its work, rather than formal membership.
