China's leadership has begun charting an ambitious roadmap for national development through the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), with President Xi Jinping emphasizing technological innovation and public participation as twin pillars of strategic planning. The plan marks a critical phase in China's journey to achieve socialist modernization by 2035.
Balancing Innovation and Security
At a key symposium in Shanghai earlier this year, Xi stressed the need to 'adapt to changing global landscapes' while maintaining focus on domestic priorities. The General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee called for accelerated development of new quality productive forces, particularly in emerging industries like AI and advanced manufacturing. 'Technological innovation must remain our compass,' Xi stated, highlighting plans to strengthen basic research and core technological breakthroughs.
Grassroots Input Shapes Policy
In a unprecedented public consultation drive, over 3.11 million suggestions flooded government portals during a month-long campaign. Proposals ranged from AI-assisted elderly care to expanded community sports facilities, reflecting diverse public priorities. Xi praised this engagement, urging officials to 'thoroughly study and integrate' citizen feedback into the final plan.
Roadmap to 2035
Analysts note the 15th Five-Year Plan serves as a crucial bridge toward China's 2035 modernization goals outlined at the 20th CPC National Congress. Zhang Chi of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences observed: 'This plan will define how China builds new competitive advantages through systemic innovation and industrial upgrading.'
The CPC Central Committee's fourth plenary session in October is expected to finalize proposals, setting the stage for comprehensive economic reforms and continued high-standard opening-up policies.
