Political advisor calls for IP sports events to welcome APEC meeting

The Shenzhen Municipal Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) will kick off its annual session on Feb. 8, lasting three days.

As part of the preparations, political advisor Tenniel Chu has proposed leveraging the 2026 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting as a strategic opportunity to boost the city’s cultural, sports, and tourism sectors, thus enhancing Shenzhen’s global influence.

Tenniel Chu, a member of the Shenzhen Municipal Committee of the CPPCC. Photo courtesy of the interviewee

Chu, a member of the Shenzhen Municipal Committee of the CPPCC, highlighted that the APEC meeting would bring together global political and business leaders, as well as international media, offering a prime chance to elevate Shenzhen’s profile. However, he noted that Shenzhen still has room to improve its international sports event recognition.

To maximize the APEC meeting’s potential, Chu suggested a series of “APEC+” sports and cultural events. His key proposal includes the creation of an “APEC+ Sports” synergy, aiming to host high-profile international sports events like world-class sailing competitions and golf tournaments. These would attract not only global athletes but also tourists, adding to the city’s vibrant, modern image. The plan also proposes an “APEC Friendship City Sports Exchange Week,” fostering ties between cities within the APEC network through friendly competitions in soccer, basketball, and dragon boating.

Chu, vice chairman of Mission Hills Group, also recommended a cultural initiative that integrates Shenzhen’s technological prowess with its tourism offerings, suggesting immersive tech-based travel experiences and industrial tours.