Senior Chinese officials and economists outlined a roadmap for sustainable development at the 2025–2026 China Economic Annual Conference in Beijing, emphasizing policy continuity and innovation as the country prepares to launch its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030). The event, hosted by the China Center for International Economic Exchanges (CCIEE), highlighted upgraded growth forecasts and strategic priorities across key sectors.
Economic Resilience and Upgraded Forecasts
Han Wenxiu of the Central Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs Office reported China's economy is on track to reach 140 trillion yuan ($19.84 trillion) in 2025, with full-year growth projections holding firm at around 5%. International institutions including the IMF have revised their 2025–2026 forecasts upward, recognizing China's role as the primary engine of global economic expansion.
Trade and Policy Coordination
Officials announced plans to strengthen foreign trade through digital and green initiatives while maintaining stable macroeconomic policies. A "proactive fiscal policy" and "moderately accommodative monetary policy" will support domestic demand stabilization, with particular emphasis on synchronizing fiscal, financial, and reform measures.
Consumption-Driven Growth
The conference revealed that new energy vehicles now account for nearly 60% of auto sales, driven by successful trade-in programs. Urban and rural income growth plans, pension increases, and service sector reforms aim to unlock 1.4 billion consumers' spending power, with special focus on improving infrastructure for inbound tourism consumption.
Green Transition Accelerates
Plans to build zero-carbon industrial parks and expand the national carbon trading market signal intensified climate commitments. The energy sector will see accelerated development of hydrogen infrastructure and green fuel systems while maintaining fossil fuel efficiency improvements.
Business Environment Reforms
Authorities pledged to streamline regulations for state-owned and private enterprises alike, with new measures to prevent payment delays to suppliers and curb anti-competitive practices. These reforms aim to create what officials termed "a quality-first market ecosystem."
