As China's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) nears its conclusion, international voices in Beijing offer fresh insights into the country's economic trajectory. CGTN's Séan Doherty gathered perspectives from foreign residents and visitors, revealing nuanced views on innovation, sustainability, and market dynamics.
"The push for green tech here is unlike anything I've seen," remarked Lars Jensen, a Danish renewable energy consultant working in the Chinese mainland since 2020. "From EV infrastructure to solar panel production, there's tangible momentum."
Academic researcher Dr. Priya Mehta from India noted: "The focus on high-tech manufacturing aligns with global supply chain shifts. My students at Tsinghua University are particularly interested in semiconductor development under the plan."
Tourism entrepreneur Maria Gonzalez highlighted consumer trends: "Digital payment systems and smart logistics transformed how small businesses operate. Even street vendors use AI inventory tools now."
While challenges like demographic shifts and global trade tensions were acknowledged, interviewees emphasized China's adaptive policymaking. "The pandemic recovery strategy showed flexibility within the five-year framework," observed Kenyan trade analyst Kwame Omondi.
These international perspectives coincide with preparations for China's 15th Five-Year Plan, offering global investors and policymakers food for thought as Asia's economic powerhouse continues evolving its development model.
