Guangzhou, China – An Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) delegation from Hong Kong, China, led by Commissioner Mr. Woo Ying-ming, concluded its participation in Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) anti-corruption meetings in Guangzhou on . The meetings aimed to bolster international collaboration in combating graft across the Asia-Pacific region.
The ICAC delegation’s attendance at the meetings, which began on , marks the first APEC anti-corruption thematic event held during China’s host year for APEC 2026. Representatives from almost all APEC member economies participated, according to officials.
Mr. Woo emphasized the ICAC’s commitment to the three priorities outlined by APEC – openness, innovation, and cooperation – as it contributes to the vision of “Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together.” He noted that China, as the host of APEC 2026, is organizing a series of high-level conferences throughout the year.
Speaking on , Mr. Woo highlighted the ICAC’s progress since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration on Fighting Corruption in 2014. He stated that the Commission has been effectively implementing the declaration’s objectives through strategic partnerships, notably with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
These collaborations have resulted in several joint initiatives, including the “Coding4Integrity Asian Youth Anti-Corruption Hackathon 2025” and the Professional Development Programme on “Empowering Integrity: Mastering Artificial Intelligence & Technologies in Anti-Corruption.” The ICAC and UNODC also jointly compiled a Guide on Corruption Risk Management in Prison Systems.
Beyond its work with the UNODC, the ICAC has also established numerous Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with counterpart agencies in various jurisdictions to strengthen international cooperation against corruption. This network of agreements underscores Hong Kong’s commitment to a multilateral approach to tackling transnational crime.
Mr. Woo further noted the significance of the upcoming Year of the Horse, referencing the adoption of the Beijing Declaration during the last Year of the Horse. He stated that the ICAC will “continue to deepen regional anti-corruption ties and capitalise on the unique advantages of the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ principle to implement the objectives of the declaration, building a clean and fair society.”
The ICAC delegation included Director of Investigation (Private Sector) of the Operations Department, Mr. Bryan Chong Ka-lok, and other ICAC officers. During the three-day meetings, which focused on Anti-Corruption Authorities and Law Enforcement Agencies Network and Anti-Corruption and Transparency Experts’ Working Group, ICAC representatives shared their experiences in leveraging big data and artificial intelligence to enhance corruption investigations and asset recovery efforts.
The delegation also presented technological corruption prevention measures and innovative publicity strategies employed by the ICAC. These presentations highlight Hong Kong’s proactive approach to utilizing technology in the fight against corruption, a strategy increasingly relevant in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The APEC meetings in Guangzhou represent a key moment for regional anti-corruption efforts. China’s leadership of APEC in 2026 provides a platform for increased cooperation and the implementation of best practices in combating corruption. The ICAC’s participation underscores Hong Kong’s continued role as a key player in these international initiatives.
The focus on openness, innovation, and cooperation, as outlined by APEC, reflects a broader international consensus on the need for a multifaceted approach to tackling corruption. This includes not only law enforcement and legal frameworks but also the promotion of transparency, the use of technology, and the engagement of civil society.
The ICAC’s commitment to these principles, as demonstrated by its participation in the Guangzhou meetings and its ongoing collaborations with international partners, positions Hong Kong as a leader in the global fight against corruption. The Commission’s work is crucial in maintaining the integrity of both the public and private sectors, fostering economic growth, and promoting good governance throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
