China to unveil priorities for coming 5 years at major annual political meeting

China’s ceremonial legislature convenes this week in Beijing to outline the nation’s policy trajectory and economic objectives for the coming years. The National People’s Congress (NPC), scheduled to begin Thursday, will serve as a platform to announce key targets amid ongoing economic challenges and geopolitical tensions.

The NPC, along with its advisory counterpart, the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), form what is commonly referred to as the “Two Sessions.” While the NPC technically votes on new laws determined by the Communist Party leadership, these votes are largely ceremonial, with near-unanimous approval being the norm among the approximately 3,000 members.

The CPPCC, comprised of elite members of Chinese society ranging from business leaders to athletes and minority representatives, serves primarily as an advisory body with limited influence on substantive policy matters.

Political analysts note that the nature of these gatherings has transformed significantly under President Xi Jinping’s leadership. “A long, long time ago, it was a venue for policy deliberation,” said Alfred Wu, a professor of public policy at the National University of Singapore. “Now it’s very much become a showcase, propaganda,” reflecting the increasingly controlled nature of political discourse in China.

Economic issues will take center stage during the congress, with observers keenly awaiting details of China’s 15th five-year plan. A draft version revealed last October indicated an emphasis on technological advancement and self-sufficiency – priorities that have gained urgency amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States.

The five-year plan, a remnant of China’s formerly planned economy, continues to serve as a blueprint for the country’s economic development. This year’s plan emerges against a backdrop of persistent economic challenges, including high youth unemployment, weak property markets, and diminished consumer confidence.

China’s economy faces the difficult task of balancing technological ambitions in sectors like robotics, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence with the immediate need to stimulate domestic consumption. Policy experts Neil Thomas and Lobsang Tsering of the Asia Society predict China will likely lower its growth target to a historic minimum, signaling what they describe as a “shift from high-speed to high-quality growth.”

The economic recalibration comes amid U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods and growing international concern about China’s industrial policies. Analysts suggest that Beijing’s focus on tech manufacturing may have limited immediate benefits for ordinary citizens, as tech supply chains have narrower economic impacts than traditional manufacturing sectors.

On the political front, recent developments have drawn attention to potential internal power dynamics. The legislature dismissed 19 members last week, following the high-profile removal of two senior generals in January. These changes have left the Central Military Commission, which controls China’s military forces, with only one remaining member besides Xi Jinping.

Research from the Center for Strategic Studies indicates that Xi has removed potentially up to 100 senior military officials over the past four years, most notably General Zhang Youxia in January. Despite these significant personnel changes, experts do not anticipate major leadership announcements during the upcoming Two Sessions.

Professor Wu suggests the leadership appears unfazed by temporary vacancies in key positions, citing how Wang Yi resumed his role as foreign minister after his successor Qin Gang was unexpectedly removed from office.

As the congress convenes, international observers will closely monitor both the economic targets and attendance patterns for insights into China’s policy direction and internal political stability in an increasingly complex global environment.