Guangzhou City is currently hosting the first APEC Senior Officials' Meeting of 2026, a precursor to November's 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting. The February 1-10 gatherings coincide with vibrant Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival celebrations across Guangdong Province, blending economic diplomacy with cultural heritage.
Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Visitors this week can experience flower markets showcasing AI-powered floral displays alongside Uygur-style embroidery workshops. The centerpiece 'APEC Partners' lantern installation – a 12-meter digital-art hybrid – symbolizes regional cooperation through animated depictions of member economies' landmarks.
Local authorities report over 2 million visitors to heritage sites since February 1, with cross-border e-commerce platforms seeing a 40% surge in overseas orders for Lingnan-style handicrafts. 'This fusion showcases our capacity to honor traditions while driving economic modernization,' noted a Guangdong cultural affairs official.
