China has set an economic growth target of between 4.5% and 5% for 2026, the lowest level since the early 1990s. The announcement was made during the opening of the National People's Congress, where Prime Minister Li Qiang outlined the country's economic priorities for the coming period.  

The moderation of the target responds to various structural challenges facing the Chinese economy, including weakness in the real estate sector, low consumer confidence, an aging population, and a more uncertain international environment.  

Rather than a sign of crisis, the adjustment reflects a change in approach by the authorities: moving from a model focused on high rates of expansion to one of "higher quality growth," supported by innovation, technological self-sufficiency, and a greater weight of domestic consumption. 

In this context, the new economic plan also includes measures to stimulate domestic demand, support strategic industries such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors, and strengthen the economy's resilience in the face of a more volatile global environment.  

Fynsa 

Source: Reuters