China’s biggest political meeting, the National People’s Congress (NPC), has kicked off with a focus on the country’s growth target. The NPC, which draws around 3,000 deputies to Beijing, will outline China’s annual growth target and endorse a five-year blueprint of policy priorities until 2030. The meeting comes as China’s economy faces challenges, including slowing growth, a property slump, and rising tensions with Western nations. The government is expected to set a growth target of 4.5 to 5 percent for 2026, with a focus on “high-quality development” and technological self-reliance.
The 15th Five-Year Plan, unveiled during the NPC, will prioritize industrial upgrading, technological innovation, and fostering a strong domestic market. Chinese President Xi Jinping’s vision for China’s development will take center stage, with an emphasis on achieving technological breakthroughs and promoting sustainable growth. The meeting will also provide insight into China’s economic strategy and its approach to navigating global uncertainties.
