At the first press conference of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC), spokesperson Lou Qinjian stated that China is in a critical phase of transforming its growth drivers, with new growth momentum flourishing, unlocking fresh possibilities for expanding development space and creating new opportunities.

Lou noted that over the past year, the CPC Central Committee, with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, has united and led the entire Party and people across the nation to maintain strategic focus, withstand pressure, and overcome challenges. Particularly, the Politburo meeting on September 26 last year decisively rolled out a package of incremental policies, effectively boosting market confidence and driving a significant economic rebound. Annual GDP surpassed 130 trillion yuan for the first time, achieving 5% growth.

He acknowledged that adverse external impacts are deepening, with the economy still facing numerous difficulties and challenges. Uncertainties in the global political and economic landscape have heightened, complicating efforts to stabilize external demand. Domestically, insufficient demand and operational hurdles for some enterprises persist. However, Lou emphasized China’s solid economic foundation, multiple advantages, strong resilience, and vast potential, stressing that the long-term positive fundamentals and supporting conditions remain unchanged.

Lou highlighted that the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed measures to deepen comprehensive reforms and expand high-level opening-up, while the Central Economic Work Conference outlined nine key tasks. These initiatives, he said, are invigorating and strengthening economic vitality.

He further underscored China’s unique strengths: a mega-sized domestic market and a complete industrial system, making it the only country with all industrial categories listed in the United Nations industrial classification system. This foundation, coupled with vast growth space from demand, structural, and kinetic energy upgrading, not only bolsters economic development but also provides ample room to navigate risks and challenges.

In closing, Lou expressed unwavering confidence in China’s economic prospects, noting that the Chinese economy has always grown stronger through trials. The NPC and its Standing Committee will implement the CPC Central Committee’s decisions, advancing legislation and oversight to provide legal safeguards for high-quality development and high-standard opening-up.