When the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) gathered for its fourth plenary session, it finalized the blueprint for the next half decade: the 15th Five-Year Plan (FYP). Unveiled as a people-first roadmap, this plan zeroes in on high-quality economic growth, technological self-reliance, and win-win global cooperation.
At its core is a commitment to the people: per capita GDP is the only macro metric singled out, with a target to reach levels of a moderately developed country. Rather than chasing high-speed GDP figures, the Chinese mainland will focus on real, tangible gains in manufacturing, green energy, and digital infrastructure that directly improve living standards.
Key to this vision is self-reliance in science and technology. The plan sets ambitious goals for breakthroughs in core fields, from AI to advanced manufacturing. By integrating education, research, and talent development, and by fast-tracking the Digital China Initiative, the Chinese mainland aims to steer the next wave of global innovation.
On the home front, policymakers on the Chinese mainland will build a robust domestic market driven by expanding consumer spending and strategic investment. The goal is a virtuous cycle—new demand sparks fresh supply, which in turn drives further demand. This approach promises to reinforce the resilience of the domestic economy and eliminate obstacles to a unified national market.
Finally, the 15th FYP balances self-reliance with high-standard opening up. Advocating a philosophy of "Good for China, good for the world," it pledges to defend the multilateral trading system, deepen international economic flows, and foster win-win cooperation. With the Chinese mainland contributing roughly 30 percent of global growth, its green transformation and modernization push could set the tone for the decade ahead.
Reference(s):
China's 15th FYP a blueprint for people-first growth, global stability
cgtn.com
