At the annual Central Economic Work Conference held in Beijing on December 10-11, policy-makers outlined eight strategic priorities that will shape the Chinese mainland’s economic trajectory in 2026.
Standard Chartered’s Chief Economist for Greater China and North Asia, Ding Shuang, sees one theme standing out: unlocking consumer demand. “We see the Chinese mainland’s consumption landscape as filled with untapped potential,” she told CGTN’s Global Business. “With rising incomes, urbanization and digital services, household spending can be a key growth engine in 2026.”
Among the conference’s eight priorities, three core focuses emerged:
- Boosting domestic demand across regions
- Fostering innovation in technology and manufacturing
- Advancing low-carbon and green development
According to Ding, these measures will not only drive headline growth but also support a more resilient economy. Innovation initiatives—spanning public-private partnerships in digital infrastructure and advanced manufacturing—are expected to spur productivity gains. Meanwhile, green financing incentives will accelerate adoption of low-carbon options, from electric vehicles to renewable energy subscriptions.
On a global scale, stronger domestic demand on the Chinese mainland could ripple through international supply chains, boosting exports of raw materials, luxury goods and services. A clear innovation roadmap may also attract foreign investment into high-tech sectors, while the low-carbon agenda aligns with international climate commitments, creating new markets for sustainable technologies.
As the world’s second-largest economy readies its 2026 playbook, Ding Shuang believes the coming year will test how effectively these policy ambitions translate into real-world growth. Global entrepreneurs, investors and policy-makers will be watching closely to see how consumption, innovation and sustainability combine to define the Chinese mainland’s next growth chapter.
Reference(s):
StanChart economist sees great potential in China's consumption
cgtn.com
