Thousands of delegates are attending the annual meetings of the National People's Congress (NPC) — the Chinese legislative assembly — and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), a top level advisory body, in Beijing. Together, the two conferences offer early signals about potential shifts in China's policy — particularly on the economy, security and foreign affairs. This year's "Two Sessions" also coincide with the launch of China's 15th Five-Year Plan, the country's economic and political road map for 2026–2030.
Premier Li Qiang set a GDP growth target of around 4.5–5% for 2026, the lowest official goal since 1991. The figure marks a notable shift after decades in which China maintained rapid expansion, positioning itself as a key driver of global economic growth.
