APEC delegation launches APEC China 2026 'Tech for People' Nanshan Day

Eduardo Pedrosa, executive director of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Secretariat, attended the APEC China 2026 “Tech for People” Nanshan Day yesterday during his multi-day visit to Shenzhen with a high-level delegation.

Eduardo Pedrosa (2nd R), executive director of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Secretariat, speaks with a local representative at the “Go Global” Global Service Center in Shenzhen’s Nanshan District during his visit yesterday. Zhen Jianhong 

The visit comes as preparations for the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Informal Meeting, to be held in the southern China tech hub in November this year, gain momentum. The delegation toured local innovation platforms, met with young entrepreneurs, and exchanged views on technological innovation, youth development and regional cooperation.

Eduardo Pedrosa addresses attendees during the APEC China 2026 “Tech for People” Nanshan Day event in Shenzhen yesterday, emphasizing the role of innovation, youth development and regional cooperation in building a more connected Asia-Pacific region. Photos courtesy of the event organizer unless otherwise stated

Co-hosted by the Nanshan district government and Shenzhen News Group and themed “Tech for People,” yesterday's event drew officials, international startups, mentors and foreign media representatives, who also witnessed the launch of the “Create in Shenzhen Nanshan” Global Co-Creation Initiative.

This marked the first visit by the APEC Secretariat’s core team to Shenzhen for a district-level innovation event. The trip provides a closer look at Shenzhen’s preparations for APEC China 2026 and highlights growing interest in Nanshan’s innovation ecosystem, open environment and youth-focused policies.

Cristina Christodulo, community outreach manager of Communications and Public Affaris, APEC Secretariat, tests an infrared laser healthcare device during the APEC China 2026 “Tech for People” Nanshan Day event in Shenzhen yesterday.

Innovation ecosystem in focus

As the Asia-Pacific region seeks to boost growth, innovation and cooperation, APEC continues to prioritize youth development, digital connectivity and inclusive growth. The event has brought a regional perspective to Shenzhen’s local innovation landscape and created new opportunities for international engagement.

In his remarks, Pedrosa said Shenzhen and Nanshan’s open, innovation-driven development aligns with APEC’s priorities of openness, innovation and cooperation, as well as this year’s theme of building a shared Asia-Pacific future.

He said the APEC “Tech for People” event could serve as a starting point to attract more young innovators to Shenzhen, linking the region with global markets and ensuring technology better serves society.

Eduardo Pedrosa (R) and Fernando Salas (L), director of Communications and Public Affairs of APEC Secretariat, examine DJI’s latest drone technologies during a visit to the company in Nanshan District yesterday. Zhen Jianhong

The delegation also visited leading institutions and companies such as the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology and drone manufacturer DJI, gaining insights into the full innovation chain from research to commercialization. They said Nanshan stands out for its concentration of resources, commercialization efficiency, and startup ecosystem, making it a leading innovation hub in the Asia-Pacific region.

Global co-creation initiative launched

An event host engages with attendees during the APEC China 2026 “Tech for People” Nanshan Day event in Shenzhen yesterday.

A highlight of the event was the launch of the “Create in Shenzhen Nanshan” Global Co-Creation Initiative.

Jointly introduced by the district government and Shenzhen News Group, the program combines technology, storytelling and global communication. It aims to present Shenzhen’s innovation story in a more accessible and engaging way to international audiences.

The initiative will invite young people from across the Asia-Pacific region, international creators and foreign journalists to take part in on-the-ground innovation projects in Nanshan. Participants will document their experiences through video, writing and design.

Selected works will be included in Shenzhen’s official digital city image platform, showcasing the city as a global hub for innovation and helping local technologies and brands reach wider markets.

Startups showcase innovation

Alain Dijkstra, CEO of Kaiyan & Nuon Medical, presents his company’s medical technology project during a roadshow session at the APEC China 2026 “Tech for People” Nanshan Day event in Shenzhen yesterday.

Six international teams presented projects at a roadshow following the launch ceremony, covering sectors such as advanced materials, smart hardware, medical technology and digital innovation.

Company representatives introduced their projects and outlined potential applications in both Chinese and English. Organizers said the presentations highlighted the role of young innovators in driving technological progress and creating social value.

Pedrosa praised Nanshan’s efforts to support youth entrepreneurship and cross-border collaboration, encouraging startups to expand into broader Asia-Pacific markets.

Supporting regional cooperation

The APEC China 2026 “Tech for People” Nanshan Innovation Day is expected to show Shenzhen's as well as Nanshan’s efforts to support APEC China 2026 and broader Asia-Pacific cooperation through local innovation. By showcasing Nanshan’s innovation ecosystem, engaging young innovators across the region and advancing the global co-creation initiative, the event expands Shenzhen’s international outreach and cooperation network under the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation framework.

Eduardo Pedrosa examines an architectural model during a visit to drone maker DJI in Nanshan District yesterday.

Officials said the initiative supports China’s broader diplomatic agenda by demonstrating a commitment to openness, innovation and cooperation, while contributing to efforts to build a more integrated Asia-Pacific community. It also highlights a focus on youth development by providing a platform for young people to exchange ideas, showcase projects and pursue cross-border collaboration, helping drive long-term regional growth.

At the same time, Nanshan’s innovation ecosystem — spanning industrial clusters, emerging sectors, open collaboration and efficient commercialization — offers a practical model for other APEC economies seeking to share the benefits of digital development and achieve high-quality growth.

As APEC China 2026 approaches, Shenzhen and Nanshan are expected to further open their innovation ecosystem, support young entrepreneurs and deepen regional cooperation, contributing to a more dynamic and connected Asia-Pacific region.