China targets fulfilling economic goals despite slowdown, as premier seeks enhanced domestic momentum

Meeting China’s annual economic targets is not optional, said Premier Li Qiang, with the strong message pointing to increased resources and policy coordination.

Li emphasised the need to expand domestic demand, support private enterprise, attract foreign investment and build a modernised industrial system during Wednesday’s State Council meeting, with China struggling to sustain its post-Covid recovery.

“[We] have to make sure that we fulfil our targets for the whole year,” the premier told the meeting, which was attended by vice-premiers, state councillors and cabinet ministers, as well as provincial leaders via video link.

“[We] must enhance endogenous momentum, improve social expectations and resolve risks and hidden dangers.”