The 2026 APEC SME Digital Forum was held in Guangzhou on August 31 with focus on how artificial intelligence and other digital technologies could help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) improve productivity and competitiveness.
The forum brought together about 200 participants from government, academia, industry and the media of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies. It was held as a supporting event for the 32nd APEC SME Ministerial Meeting under the theme "Innovation-Driven Development for Win-Win Cooperation."
Discussions focused on practical approaches to SME digital transformation, including AI adoption, digital capacity building, industrial ecosystem development and cross-border cooperation. Participants also shared experience from across the region and the business community in using technology to upgrade operations and strengthen industrial and supply chain linkages.
The forum was organized by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, with support from local research institutes, industry organizations and government bodies.
Organizers said the event provided a platform for policymakers, researchers and businesses to explore practical avenues for digital-economy cooperation and build greater consensus on SME digital transformation across the Asia-Pacific.
The forum was part of APEC China 2026, held under the theme "Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together," with openness, innovation and cooperation as its three priorities.
Reporter: Hu Nan
Photo: 2026 APEC SME Digital Forum
