APEC Finance Ministers Commit to Enhanced Policy Coordination Amid Global Economic Turbulence
APEC finance ministers pledge to strengthen macroeconomic policy coordination to combat global risks as China hosts the 2026 summit in Hong Kong.
POLICY WIRE — Hong Kong, China — Finance ministers representing the 21 member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum have reached a consensus to bolster macroeconomic policy communication. The agreement aims to better navigate the mounting external risks and challenges currently impacting the global landscape.
Chinese Minister of Finance Lan Foan announced the commitment on Wednesday, following the conclusion of the two-day meeting. Lan urged the APEC member nations to foster closer collaboration to stimulate economic growth while contending with significant geopolitical and financial instability.
The 2026 APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting commenced on Tuesday, October 20, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai. During his opening address, Lan highlighted that the international environment is currently defined by turbulence and complexity, noting that ongoing geopolitical conflicts are creating spillover effects that challenge global stability.
As the host for the 2026 APEC cycle, China utilized the Hong Kong gathering to advance four primary agenda items. These include the implementation of fiscal policies to support public livelihoods, the financing of digital infrastructure, the promotion of inclusive finance adapted to local conditions, and the fostering of sustainable economic development.
Minister Lan led the Chinese delegation throughout the proceedings, with Vice-minister of Finance Liao Min also delivering remarks on behalf of the host nation. This ministerial summit serves as a critical precursor to the upcoming APEC leaders’ summit, which is slated to take place in Shenzhen on November 18 and 19.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
