Edinburgh to host G20 summit of finance ministers and central bank governors next year
Some of world’s most influential financial figures heading for Capital
Edinburgh has been named as the host city for next year’s summit of G20 finance ministers and central bank governors.
The meeting on July 8 and 9, 2027, at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre will bring together the key financial figures from some of the world’s most powerful nations, putting the Capital in the global spotlight.
The gathering will be a core part of the UK’s presidency of the year-long G20, which will also see the G20 leaders’ summit take place in Manchester on November 27 and 28, 2027.
The G20 brings together 19 of the world’s largest economies plus the European Union and the African Union. Together, it makes up 85 per cent of global GDP, 75 per cent of international trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population and is the main international forum for coordinating the world's largest economies.
The UK Government has said it is determined to ensure its presidency of the organisation will benefit people in every part of the country, bringing the G20 to nations and regions across the UK.
The finance summit is seen as one of the most significant gatherings on the economic calendar, bringing together some of the world's most influential economic leaders for discussions that will help shape the global financial agenda.
Making the announcement, Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey said: “As the UK’s second financial centre, Edinburgh is a fitting host for the G20 finance meeting. Alongside the Leader’s summit in Manchester, and other meetings around the nations and regions, the G20 is a real opportunity for the whole of the UK.”
And Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said: "Bringing the world's finance ministers to Edinburgh recognises our capital's reputation as a global financial centre. This is a significant moment for Edinburgh and the whole of Scotland - the event showcases Scottish innovation and ambition to a global audience."
Among the issues to be discussed will be AI, which Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he plans to put at the heart of the UK’s G20 presidency. He said he wanted to bring together the right people on the key questions about delivering on the potential of AI for good and dealing with the risks to ensure that AI development is safe.
The EICC has previously hosted international events such as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM); the North Atlantic Assembly; and the NATO Parliamentary Assembly 55th Annual Session.
Council leader Jane Meagher said: “We’re pleased to have been chosen to host the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting in Edinburgh next summer and look forward to welcoming the world’s most prominent financial decision makers to our capital city.
“Edinburgh has long earned its global status as a major centre for financial services, with our history in the sector spanning over three centuries. We’re proud to be the UK’s second largest financial centre outside of London and of our longstanding reputation, expertise and innovation in the finance sector.
“With a strong track record of delivering events on the world’s stage, we look forward to having all eyes on us next year – and working with partners at both a Government and local level to showcase the very best of what Edinburgh has to offer.”
The EICC said preparations were already underway to ensure world-class facilities, technology, delegate services and security arrangements were in place ahead of the meeting.
And it said that, beyond the immediate economic benefits generated by visiting delegations, hosting the summit would create a lasting legacy for Edinburgh, showcasing the city’s international profile and supporting future inward investment opportunities.
EICC board chair, Cllr Lezley Marion Cameron, said: “I am delighted the EICC is again hosting world leaders and economic decision makers. To do so is a privilege and a responsibility. It also boosts Edinburgh’s offering as a business events city and shows confidence in the EICC’s facilities and track record of delivering international political and financial gatherings to world class standards.”