New APEC Forest Initiative Targets Biodiversity and Illegal Trade

Beijing’s APEC One‑Ministerial Forest Conference, held between July 26 and 28, 2024, culminated in the adoption of a joint declaration that places biodiversity protection and the fight against illegal forest‑product trade at its core. The 2026 APEC declaration urges all member economies to integrate sustainable forest management into their national development agendas.

Key points include expanding investment and funding streams for forest development, modernising processing facilities, and extending the forest‑product value chain. The statement also calls for deeper regional cooperation on urban forestry, water‑resource stewardship, and the use of technological innovation to restore ecosystems.

Furthermore, the declaration supports the emergence of new forest‑based industries, products, and services that adhere to sustainable management principles, aiming to create green jobs and enhance climate resilience across the Asia‑Pacific.

This summit was a central component of APEC’s China‑focused year and represented the first ecology‑centric APEC special meeting in China in fifteen years. Over 21 member economies and seven international organisations convened to discuss global forest targets, green industry development, and the role of innovation in achieving a sustainable future.