Hong Kong hosted the APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting (FMM) 2026 on October 20-21, marking the first time the city has held the event. The meeting brought together finance leaders and representatives of international organisations to discuss regional financial and economic development. The FMM concluded with the issuance of the 2026 APEC Finance Ministers' Joint Statement, which reaffirmed the commitment to building an open, dynamic, resilient, and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040 for the prosperity of all people and future generations.
The significance of Hong Kong's hosting role was emphasised by Chief Executive John Lee, who described it as a historic occasion. He noted that the APEC member economies represent some three billion people and account for over 60 per cent of global GDP. Lee highlighted that under the "one country, two systems" principle, Hong Kong enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage, being the only common law jurisdiction in China with a legal and regulatory regime similar to other top financial hubs. This positioning is crucial for the city's ability to facilitate international cooperation and maintain its status as a global financial centre.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan, speaking during the discussion sessions, stressed the need for Asia-Pacific economies to strengthen cooperation amid geopolitical tensions and trade policy uncertainties. He called for open channels for trade and investment, not new barriers, and for connected markets that allow capital to reach productive uses and technologies to be adopted across borders. Chan stated that Hong Kong would leverage its unique advantages and diverse financing channels to serve as a "super connector" and "super value-adder."
The meeting also featured two thematic seminars held by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the APEC Business Advisory Council on fostering a digitalised, inclusive, and sustainable supply chain ecosystem through finance, and on mobilising capital for nature. Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, noted that prosperity would not be secured by any economy acting alone but through partnership, innovation, and resilience.
The FMM's outcome carries implications for regional economic stability and long-term growth. The joint statement and the discussions underscore a collective commitment to multilateralism and practical cooperation in fiscal and financial affairs. For Hong Kong, successfully hosting the event reinforces its role as a bridge between China and the world, and as a platform for dialogue on pressing economic issues. The meeting also provided an opportunity to showcase the city's cultural heritage and unique charm to delegates, with visits to landmarks such as The Peak, the Hong Kong Palace Museum, and Victoria Harbour.
As global economic uncertainties persist, Hong Kong's ability to convene APEC finance ministers and facilitate consensus-building demonstrates its continued relevance in shaping the region's financial architecture. The event, covered by Media OutReach Newswire, highlights the city's capacity to contribute to regional economic and financial stability, a point echoed by Minister of Finance Lan Fo'an, who urged all parties to firmly implement the consensus reached at the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and deepen practical cooperation. For more information about Hong Kong's role, visit https://www.brandhk.gov.hk/.
