🌐 Recently, at the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, China unveiled recommendations for its 15th Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development (2026–2030). This critical period sets the stage for socialist modernization by 2035 and offers a wealth of global opportunities.
🚀 Driving Global Growth
China has been a major engine of world growth, contributing about 30 percent of global expansion each year during its last plan. From 2012 to 2024, its GDP rose at an average annual rate of 6 percent. Studies show that every 1 percent of additional growth in China adds roughly 0.3 percent to other economies. By championing openness over protectionism, China aims to safeguard the multilateral trading system and boost international economic flows.
🤝 Trade & Investment Boom
With over 1.4 billion people, China’s market power shines. In the first three quarters of 2025, nearly 49,000 new foreign-funded enterprises launched—a 16.2 percent jump year-on-year—while 22 pilot free trade zones rolled out nationwide. Over the past five years, China attracted more than $700 billion in foreign investment and ranked as the world’s top goods trader and second in services. The Belt and Road Initiative continues to connect markets and foster cooperation.
💡 Tech Innovation & Collaboration
China’s rapid rise in science and technology fuels global progress. In 2024, its R&D spending topped $500 billion, landing it among the top 10 most innovative economies in the Global Innovation Index. The plan calls for aligning with high-standard rules like the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement, opening more service sectors, shortening the foreign investment negative list, and creating a friendlier environment for reinvestment.
By deepening institutional reforms and expanding market access, China aims to shape a fair, open, and inclusive international economic order. For businesses, researchers, and students around the world, the 15th Five-Year Plan signals new paths to shared prosperity. 🌍
Reference(s):
Beyond borders: Global opportunities in China's 15th Five-Year Plan
cgtn.com
