Chinese Premier Outlines 2026 Government Targets

10 UPDATES · 8 DAYS · 4 MAR 2026 — 12 MAR 2026

Congress

Latest · 12 Mar 2026

The National People's Congress concluded with the approval of China's 15th five-year plan, setting a growth target of 4.5 to 5 percent for the next five years.

What this timeline covers

This event covers China setting its lowest GDP growth target for decades in 2026, including reactions, analyses, and follow-up developments related to this specific announcement. It excludes other economic policies or announcements made by China unless they are direct developments or consequences of this particular GDP growth target announcement.

The full story, from the beginning

4Mar

STORY BEGINS — The Guardian

China sets lowest GDP growth target for decades as it braces for economic slowdown | China

5Mar

South China Morning Post

Premier Li Qiang presented his government work report outlining key targets for 2026, including GDP growth, inflation, and defense spending.

Al Jazeera

China's National People's Congress set a GDP growth target of 4.5 to 5 percent for 2026, marking a shift away from its previous 5 percent target.

Sixth Tone

Premier Li Qiang announced a 5% GDP growth target and plans to create over 12 million new urban jobs by 2026.

South China Morning Post

Premier Li Qiang set a 4.5 to 5 percent GDP growth target for China, the lowest since 1991, reflecting a shift in priorities towards high-tech development.

South China Morning Post

China will release 20 growth targets over the next five years, focusing on technological innovation, economic security, public well-being, and carbon reduction.

6Mar

South China Morning Post

China's new five-year plan focuses on tax reform to alleviate fiscal strain on local governments.

South China Morning Post

Zhang Bin argues that achieving China's 2% inflation target is essential for achieving other economic goals.

9Mar

Sixth Tone

China will increase spending on science and technology, infrastructure, and other key sectors by nearly 7.1% in 2026.

12Mar

LATEST UPDATE — Al Jazeera

The National People's Congress concluded with the approval of China's 15th five-year plan, setting a growth target of 4.5 to 5 percent for the next five years.

Story concluded