The fourth meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Advisory Council (ABAC) has commenced in Shenzhen, a major economic hub in south China`s Guangdong Province.

Over 60 business delegates alongside approximately 200 experts and relevant officials from all 21 APEC member economies are participating in the three-day gathering that began on Saturday, according to the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).

The meeting features dedicated working sessions centered on four core themes: regional economic integration, sustainable development, connectivity, and digital innovation. During these sessions, participants will review the achievements of respective working groups over the past year and chart priorities for cooperation in the coming year. China`s representative to ABAC will chair the working session on connectivity.

Established in November 1995, ABAC is the sole non-governmental entity mandated to provide official advice to the APEC Economic Leaders` Meeting. The council engages in formal dialogue with APEC leaders and submits an annual report containing concrete policy recommendations.

Meanwhile, the first press briefing for APEC 2026 was held at the media center on Saturday. Officials from the Guangdong Provincial Government and the Shenzhen Municipal Government briefed journalists on organizational preparations and logistical support measures underway for the upcoming APEC events.

Following the conclusion of the ABAC meeting, the 2026 APEC CEO Summit will take place in Shenzhen on November 17 and 18, convening leading business executives and government officials from across the Asia-Pacific region.

Source: Nahar, Faisal | CCTV