Carbon Economics Salon Explores Climate-Trade Challenges in Shenzhen

The Carbon Economics Salon Series was held at Peking University HSBC Business School (PHBS) in Shenzhen on June 16, 2026. It attracted nearly 100 scholars, policymakers, and industry representatives to discuss the climate-trade nexus, a key issue for the Asia-Pacific region. This event preceded the APEC Forestry Ministerial Meeting where the green transition was expected to dominate discussions.

Co-hosted by PHBS and the Institute of Carbon Neutrality (ICN-PKU), the salon focused on climate-trade measures, carbon market development, and AI’s role in carbon governance. Speakers called for global carbon governance systems and stronger carbon pricing mechanisms. Keynote speaker Thomas J. Sargent highlighted the need for early investment in green technologies.

Roundtable discussions tackled unilateral climate measures and carbon market collaboration with the Global South, emphasizing the impact of trade rules and international coordination on carbon governance. The event underscored the value of ongoing dialogues on climate cooperation, particularly in China’s energy transition.