China: 2026 APEC Ministerial Meeting on Forestry held in south China's Shenzhen.

Storyline 2026 APEC Ministerial Meeting on Forestry held in south China's Shenzhen Delegates from 21 APEC economies and 7 international organizations are meeting in Shenzhen. The dialogue centers on advancing global forest goals and fostering innovation-driven green industrial growth. New Zealand's delegate highlights the importance of cross-border cooperation. Jenny Cameron, Deputy Director-General, China Relations, New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries: "China and New Zealand share many things in common when it comes to forestry and mangrove protection. In fact, migratory birds leave from New Zealand and fly away over 9,000 kilometers to land here in Shenzhen where they boost their feeding before heading on to Russia. So things like species of birds and forests share no borders and that's why it's really important for APEC economies to get together." As a key member of the Asia-Pacific community, China has contributed 25 percent of global green area growth and met its 2030 forest stock target early. This has earned regional praise for its restoration efforts. Wang Chunfeng, Executive Director, Asia-Pacific Network for Sustainable Forest Management and Rehabilitation: "The Chinese government has long prioritized forest conservation and restoration. Since 2012, its efforts have been remarkable, some of its unique approaches also offer valuable lessons for the region." The meeting adopted a joint statement, calling for stronger biodiversity protection, action on illegal timber, and forest governance in economic planning. Xu Hua, Reporter: "The consensus reached at this meeting will contribute forestry-related outcomes to the APEC Economic Leaders' Informal Meeting this November, to advance sustainable forestry development." [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]