#China #Chengdu #SDGs #Youth Innovation #Chengdu Initiative

Chengdu Hosts Future Vision Cultural Industry Dialogue

The recent Future Vision Cultural Industry Dialogue took place on July 9, 2026, in Chengdu, China. This event aimed to explore how innovations spearheaded by youth can propel the digital cultural and creative industries, while also aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations.

More than 100 delegates, representing a diverse group of sectors including government, academia, international organizations, and youth communities, gathered in the Chengdu High-tech Zone for this significant dialogue. The thematic focus of discussions was “Youth Innovation Envisioning the Future of the Cultural Industry.”

Key Highlights of the Dialogue

Jointly initiated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the China Internet Information Center (CIIC), the event was implemented through the UNDP’s SDG Innovation Lab, known as SPARK Lab. A key outcome was the announcement of the Chengdu Initiative on the Coordinated Development of Asia-Pacific Youth Cultural Innovation and Digital Creative Industries.

This initiative is structured around four essential pillars:

• - Shared Values: Emphasizing common cultural narratives and fostering understanding among diverse communities.
• - Ecosystem Building: Creating a supportive environment for innovation and cultural exchange.
• - Industrial Collaboration: Encouraging partnerships within the cultural sectors to strengthen outputs.
• - Youth Talent Development: Focusing on nurturing the next generation of creative talents in the Asia-Pacific region.

The collaboration received support from five notable organizations, including the UNESCO International Research and Training Centre for Rural Education and various academic institutions from Beijing. These partnerships aim to forge a sustainable platform for youth interaction and creativity across the region.

Engaging Discussions

The dialogue featured two stimulating panel discussions. The first, titled “From the Entertainment Industry to New Drivers of Digital Culture: Unlocking the Economic Potential of the Creative Industries,” delved into how digital technologies have transformed cultural production, distribution, and consumption. Panelists highlighted the vast opportunities that arise for youth entrepreneurship and economic growth within this evolving landscape.

The second discussion, “Asia-Pacific Youth Entrepreneurs Dialogue: Challenges and Opportunities in Cross-Cultural Entrepreneurship,” provided insights into the various challenges faced by young entrepreneurs in navigating the complexities of cross-cultural initiatives. Experts and practitioners shared their experiences in overcoming hurdles and maximizing the benefits of cultural diversity.

Site Visit to Cultural Hub

Following the discussions, delegates visited the Tianfu Long Island Digital Cultural and Creative Park, a prominent hub for digital creative industries in Chengdu. The park boasts several innovative cultural enterprises known for creating successful intellectual properties, such as the Ne Zha films and the popular mobile game Honor of Kings, contributing to an impressive industrial output exceeding 100 billion yuan.

The Future Vision Cultural Industry Dialogue showcased a vibrant exchange of ideas among global representatives on how to position youth at the forefront of innovation in the cultural sector, fostering collaborative efforts within the Asia-Pacific region. As cultural industries continue to evolve through digital advancements, the contributions of young innovators will play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future for cultural creativity.