Denis Matsuev, the renowned Russian pianist, captivated audiences at the Primorsky Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre in Vladivostok, performing alongside the Russian National Youth Symphony Orchestra. This concert was a highlight of the cultural program at the 11th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), which runs from September 1 to 4, 2026.
The EEF, a major international conference held annually since 2015, focuses on the economic development of Russia's Far East. This year's theme, "The Far East: Development for the Benefit of People, " underscores the forum's commitment to fostering growth and international cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. The event, hosted on Russky Island, aims to attract investment and promote the region's economic potential.
Since its inception, the EEF has facilitated significant economic agreements, with deals worth at least 3 trillion rubles ($35 billion) annually since 2018. In 2025, a record 358 agreements were signed, totaling 6.058 trillion rubles ($71 billion). The forum's organizing committee is chaired by Yury Trutnev, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister, with the Roscongress Foundation serving as the event's operator since 2016.
This year's EEF features over 70 business events, including panel sessions and roundtables. The program is divided into five thematic blocks: living and working in the Far East, attracting private investment, international interaction, present and future technologies, and logistics and infrastructure. Notable events include the Creative Industries Forum, the "Day of the Future" youth forum, and the APEC International Conference on Cooperation in Higher Education.
In addition to its business agenda, the EEF offers a rich cultural and sports program. The "Far Eastern Seasons" Arts Festival, showcasing the culture of the indigenous peoples of the Far East, is among the cultural highlights. Its gala concert will also be held at the Primorsky Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. Meanwhile, the Primorsky State Art Gallery will host the exhibition "Russian Impressionism: The Element of Color."
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy events such as the Roscongress Chess Cup, the EEF Open Water Swimming Cup, and international table tennis and mass-wrestling tournaments. The 5th International Vladivostok Regatta is also part of the lineup. For the first time, football has been included, with a gala match featuring legends of the Spartak Moscow football club held on August 28, 2026.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has been a consistent presence at the EEF, attending every year since its launch. Over the years, the forum has attracted high-ranking officials from around the world, including leaders from Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia, China, India, Armenia, Myanmar, and Laos.
The 2026 forum has confirmed participation from representatives of 80 countries, emphasizing its international significance. Title partners for this year include the A7 Russian international payment system and VEB. RF, with VTB, Gazprom, RusHydro, and the Elga coal company as general sponsors. Aeroflot serves as the official carrier, and TASS is the general media partner.
On September 2, a free concert titled "The Soul of Russia: A Language Understood by All" will take place at the Square of the Fighters for Soviet Power in Vladivostok. This event will feature popular performers from Russia and China, further enhancing the cultural exchange fostered by the EEF.
