China's economy kicked off 2025 on a high note, with first-quarter GDP surging 5.4% year-on-year — topping forecasts and defying cautious outlooks.
This upbeat performance underscores a rebound in consumer confidence, which experts view as central to sustaining growth after a period of headwinds.
In our latest edition of "The Hub," Wang Guan sat down with three renowned economists — Anthony Chan, former global chief economist at JPMorgan Chase; William Lee, chief economist and executive director at the Milken Institute; and Liu Baocheng, dean of the Center for International Business Ethics at the University of International Business and Economics. They explored how the Chinese mainland has navigated both internal hurdles and external pressures to keep the recovery on track.
While their analyses highlighted different angles, all agreed that renewed consumer optimism, paired with adaptable approaches to shifting global demands, helped power this surprise rebound.
Looking ahead, the key question is whether this momentum can be sustained. With fresh data on spending, production and policy moves due in the coming months, markets and policymakers will be watching closely to see if China's economy can maintain its upward trajectory through 2025.
For young global citizens, business enthusiasts and digital nomads, the Chinese mainland's Q1 surprise is a vivid reminder of how confidence and flexibility can turn cautious forecasts into growth stories — and why staying tuned is essential in today's interconnected world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
