APEC ministers seek stronger cooperation on digital technologies, AI

The discussions took place Thursday at the 2026 APEC Digital and AI Ministerial Meeting in Chengdu, as AI creates opportunities for innovation, productivity and economic growth.

“AI is profoundly changing the way we produce and live,” China’s Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing said, according to an APEC statement issued Friday.

“China stands ready to deepen practical cooperation in digital technology and AI to inject stronger momentum into building the Asia-Pacific community,” he said.

Ministers discussed how digital technologies and AI can support economic growth while ensuring innovation benefits are shared more broadly across the Asia-Pacific.

The meeting builds on the APEC Internet and Digital Economy Roadmap and advances the APEC AI Initiative endorsed by leaders last year.

The initiatives promote cooperation on AI innovation, digital resilience, best practices and governance approaches that support growth while fostering trust and inclusion.

China’s Minister of Industry and Information Technology Li Lecheng said APEC economies should seize opportunities from digital technologies and AI while addressing emerging risks.

“We can seize new opportunities and address risks only by pursuing innovation-driven growth, inclusion, openness and connectivity,” Li said.

“With joint efforts, this year’s APEC cooperation on digital technology and AI will create new momentum for sustained development and prosperity,” he added.

Discussions will continue during APEC Digital Weeks, bringing together officials and industry leaders to examine how digital technologies and AI can boost growth and improve people’s well-being.

APEC is a forum of 21 economies that promotes trade, investment and sustainable economic growth across the Asia-Pacific.

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