Key Outcomes of the 2026 World Conference on Traditional Medicine
The World Conference on Traditional Medicine 2026, held in Beijing from 17-18 October, concluded with several significant outcomes aimed at strengthening global cooperation for health and well-being. These included the adoption of the Beijing Initiative on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Traditional Medicinal Plant Resources, the promotion of the New-Era Shennong Herbal Project, and the publication of the Report on artificial intelligence empowering global traditional medicine development (2026).
Conference Participants and Hosts
Nearly 2000 participants, including experts and scholars from 103 countries and areas, attended the conference. Sixteen ministerial-level health officials participated. The conference was co-hosted by the People’s Government of Beijing Municipality, the National Health Commission, the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the National Medical Products Administration.
Key Announcements
Premier Li Qiang emphasized the critical role of traditional medicine and announced China’s intention to promote the digital and intelligent transformation of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). He also expressed China’s willingness to expand pilot programs for medical service sector opening and collaborate on the Belt and Road medicinal resources conservation centre.
WHO’s Role and Strategic Direction
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, highlighted the importance of integrating knowledge systems through research and innovation. Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, underscored the need to integrate traditional medicine into mainstream health systems. Dr Shyama Kuruvilla, Director of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre, expressed appreciation for the exchange of world views and scientific advances.
Conference Objectives and Forums
The conference, themed “Technology Empowerment and Integrated Development: Advancing Traditional Medicine for All,” featured a government forum, ministerial round table, and eight parallel forums. These forums focused on strengthening evidence, ensuring safety through regulation, integrating traditional medicine into health systems, and realizing its value through action across sectors.
Source: World Health Organization (WHO). Featured image credit: World Health Organization (WHO).
Leave a Reply