Report by Xinhwa News Agency

China’s 15th Five-Year Plan period from 2026 to 2030 is expected to focus on economic restructuring, technological development, and institutional reforms, as the country continues efforts toward its long-term modernization goals.

The outline of priorities was discussed during a China Economic Roundtable hosted by Xinhua News Agency, where officials, economists, and business representatives shared perspectives on the country’s development trajectory.

According to Liu Rihong from the Research Office of the State Council, China’s modernization process will continue to develop in stages, with an emphasis on strengthening economic resilience and improving coordination across sectors.

“Realizing Chinese modernization is a historical process that unfolds in stages and moves forward step by step,” Liu said.

Over the next five years, policy efforts are expected to prioritize infrastructure development, industrial capacity, urban and rural integration, and public welfare improvements. Hou Yongzhi said planned projects aim to balance immediate economic needs with longer-term structural adjustments.

He added that some initiatives will focus on industrial competitiveness, the development of emerging sectors, and the expansion of technological capabilities.

Officials and analysts identified high-quality development as a central policy direction, with emphasis on strengthening the real economy, supporting advanced manufacturing, and increasing technological self-reliance.

Liu said further efforts would include promoting digital development and encouraging more environmentally sustainable production practices.

Private sector participation and innovation were also highlighted. Chen Zhilie, chairman of EVOC Group, said enterprises should expand basic research and pursue breakthroughs in core technologies, while strengthening collaboration with academic and research institutions.

On structural reforms, Huang Hanquan of the Chinese Academy of Macroeconomic Research said policy measures would include efforts to develop a more unified national market and deepen market-based reforms in the allocation of production factors.

He also noted that reforms would extend to both state-owned and private sectors, with an emphasis on improving regulatory frameworks and ensuring fair competition.

In terms of external engagement, Huang said China would continue aligning with international economic and trade rules, expanding investment cooperation, and promoting trade innovation, including digital trade.

Analysts say the 15th Five-Year Plan will serve as a key framework for shaping China’s economic policy direction over the next five years, particularly in the context of evolving global economic conditions and technological competition.