As regional political advisory bodies and legislatures convene across the Chinese mainland, provincial governments are rolling out their 2026 economic roadmaps with measured optimism. Beijing and Henan Province have set growth targets of approximately 5%, while Chongqing aims to exceed 5% GDP expansion this year. Zhejiang targets 5-5.5% growth, and economic heavyweight Guangdong – maintaining its status as China's largest provincial economy for 37 consecutive years – projects a 4.5-5% increase.
These projections follow stronger-than-average 2025 performances, with Henan (5.6%), Zhejiang (5.5%), and Beijing (5.4%) all surpassing the national 5% growth benchmark. The targets reflect regional strategies to balance sustainable development with technological modernization, particularly in advanced manufacturing and green energy sectors.
Analysts note the coordinated approach supports China's broader economic transition, emphasizing quality growth over pure speed. This provincial planning phase precedes the National Two Sessions in March, where national priorities will be formalized.
