China has decided against hosting the United Nations (UN) Conference of Parties (COP) in 2028, leaving several other Asian countries in contention. This comes seven months after India withdrew its offer to host the climate summit in 2028.
Sources familiar with the matter confirmed the development to AFP on Friday on the sidelines of the ongoing COP31 climate summit in Turkiye.
This comes amid climate experts hoping that Beijing would assume a greater leadership role following US President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.
Despite being the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter, China is also undergoing an unprecedented green energy transformation.
The country’s clean energy sector contributed $2.1 trillion to its economy in 2025, accounting for more than a third of its economic growth.
Why has China decided against hosting COP33?
While Beijing has yet to officially confirm the development, experts believe the 2028 US presidential election could have influenced its decision.
COP33 is scheduled to take place from November 6 to 17, 2028, with Americans heading to the polls on November 7.
Even if Democrats reclaim the White House, Trump will remain president until January 2029.
The upcoming summit holds particular significance as countries will collectively assess their progress towards achieving the Paris Agreement’s climate goals.
Which country will host COP33?
Under the UN’s regional rotation system, an Asia-Pacific country is expected to host the 2028 summit.
With China and India reportedly out of contention, South Korea, Uzbekistan, Indonesia and Thailand have emerged as potential candidates.
Meanwhile, Ethiopia will host next year’s COP32 climate summit.
