China's latest government work report has signaled a renewed focus on private-sector collaboration to drive economic growth, emphasizing innovation and infrastructure development. Key measures include targeted support for high-tech small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly 'unicorn' firms and newly highlighted 'gazelle companies' — startups demonstrating rapid revenue growth. The policy framework also aims to attract private capital into national-level infrastructure projects, fostering partnerships between public initiatives and market-driven innovation.
In an exclusive interview with KhabarAsia.com, Raymond Yeung, Chief Greater China Economist at ANZ, highlighted the strategic importance of these policies. 'China's recognition of private enterprises as engines of technological advancement sends a strong signal of confidence to global investors,' Yeung noted. He emphasized that expanding private-sector involvement in infrastructure — from smart cities to renewable energy grids — could unlock new opportunities for sustainable development.
The emphasis on 'gazelle companies' reflects China's push to cultivate dynamic, agile firms poised to lead in emerging industries like AI and green tech. 'By nurturing these high-growth startups alongside established unicorns, China is building a multilayered innovation ecosystem,' Yeung explained, adding that such efforts align with broader goals of economic resilience and global competitiveness.
For business leaders and investors, these developments underscore China's evolving approach to balancing state-led priorities with market-driven solutions. Analysts suggest the policies could reshape investment flows across Asia, particularly in sectors tied to digital transformation and sustainable infrastructure.
