Under the theme Toward an Asia-Pacific that advances forest resilience and ecological well-being for all, the 2026 APEC Ministerial Meeting on Forestry, held from July 27–28 in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China, brought together leaders, experts, and scholars from 21 APEC member economies and various international oỏganizations, including a Vietnamese delagation, led by Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Nguyen Quoc Tri.

Participants shared experiences in the conservation and sustainable use of forest resources, the realization of eco-product values, and the promotion of science and technology-driven development, while discussing strategies to strengthen regional forestry cooperation.

During the conference, Deputy Minister Nguyen Quoc Tri delivered a keynote presentation, highlighting Vietnam’s sustainable forest management to enhance forest ecosystem resilience and improve ecological well-being.

Drawing from Vietnam’s practical forestry development, he proposed that APEC economies focus their cooperation on four major priorities:

First, accelerating the sharing of knowledge, science, and technology to enhance the resilience of forest ecosystems against the increasing impacts of climate change.

Second, promoting green finance, developing carbon credit markets, and establishing long-term investment mechanisms for forest conservation, restoration, and development.

Third, strengthening research cooperation, biodiversity conservation, and the sustainable management of transboundary ecosystems to protect the region’s shared natural heritage.

Fourth, building legal, transparent, and responsible timber supply chains that adapt to the evolving requirements of international trade.

"Vietnam is committed to being a reliable and responsible partner. We are always ready to share experiences and foster cooperation with APEC economies to build healthier forests and contribute to the sustainable development of the region," said Deputy Minister Tri.

He emphasized that these four areas are crucial for achieving sustainable forestry goals, enhancing forest resilience, and driving green growth across the Asia-Pacific.

The 2026 APEC Ministerial Meeting on Forestry concluded with a broad consensus and the adoption of a Joint Statement. The declaration reaffirms the commitment of APEC economies to biodiversity conservation, strengthening law enforcement to prevent the illegal trade of forest products, and integrating sustainable forest management into national economic development strategies and policies.

Furthermore, the Statement calls for increased investment and the expansion of financial opportunities for forestry development and legal timber trade, tailored to the specific conditions and development priorities of each member economy.

Vietnam is scheduled to serve as the host for APEC forestry activities in 2027, under the spirit of "Partnership – Cooperation – Innovation – Sustainable Development."