Finance ministers and representatives from Asia-Pacific economies are meeting in Hong Kong on October 20 and 21, with household affordability, digital infrastructure and access to financial services among the key issues on the agenda.
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum says the meeting will assess the economic outlook and consider how government spending and revenue policies can support growth, households and investment in people.
The talks take place against a mixed regional outlook. APEC’s Policy Support Unit projects growth of 3.2 per cent in 2026, compared with 3.3 per cent in 2025. Average inflation is expected to rise to 2.9 per cent from 2.4 per cent, with higher food and transport costs contributing to the increase.
Canada’s Department of Finance said its representative, Parliamentary Secretary Ryan Turnbull, would take part in discussions covering the global financial outlook, employment opportunities and measures to ease pressure on households.
In an October 16 statement, the department said Turnbull would also meet government and business leaders in Hong Kong to promote trade diversification, investment and economic partnerships. Canada described the engagement as part of its response to global volatility and trade uncertainty.
Hong Kong is hosting the finance ministers’ meeting for the first time. Its official event announcement says the 21 APEC economies will also discuss exchanges for young financial talent alongside the wider economic and financial agenda.
Sources: APEC; Canada Department of Finance; Hong Kong Government.
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