APPT is a biennial conference on parallel and distributed processing. Its scope covers all aspects of parallel and distributed computing technologies, including architectures, software systems and tools, algorithms, and applications. With the worldwide information revolution, almost every business area starts to face big data issues. Research on big data is being raised as nation intentions. Industries, research organizations and even governments around the world have already participated in planning and executing large projects on mass data. We have stepped into the era of big data. Decisions in businesses and economics will rely on analysis of mass data instead of on experiences. Mass data will bring us new business models. The analysis of virtual societies on the Internet will have great impact on and even lead the shaping of our future society. In scientific research area, the paradigm of science development has transformed from computing simulation to data-based exploration. The analysis of mass data in research area will be an important approach to innovation. APPT focuses on parallel computing, a central element in any big data processing solution. The computing models, methodologies, computer architectures, computer software, programming models, and analysis frameworks are deeply challenged by big data applications. APPT 2013 is a dedicated forum to explore, learn, exchange scientific results and research directions in parallel processing. Big data processing will be a highlight of this conference.