China’s 14th Five-Year Plan Will Wrap Up with Remarkable Progress

At this year’s Two Sessions, one of the key topics of discussion will be the achievements made under the 14th Five-Year Plan, which is set to conclude this year. For a country as vast and dynamic as China, a well-defined and cohesive plan is crucial. It helps unite the country under common goals and strategies, guiding the nation towards greater economic and social development. It is important to recognize that government planning and market forces are not mutually exclusive; rather, they work in tandem to drive China’s progress.

China’s 14th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development and Long-Range Objectives for 2035 is a comprehensive document, rich in detail. It spans 19 key sections that cover a wide array of socio-economic challenges and aspirations. This is not just a policy outline, but a blueprint for China’s transformation, offering clear and strategic pathways for the country’s future. In this context, we can highlight five major achievements that are particularly significant and directly align with five key chapters of the Plan.

One of the most striking achievements under the 14th Five-Year Plan is China’s rapid advancement in the digital realm. Over the past few years, China has solidified its position as a global leader in technology and innovation, emerging as a true “cyber power’’. The success of platforms such as DeepSeek, which has beaten expectations on a global scale, is emblematic of China’s growing performance in high-tech fields. This success, however, is not merely a product of technological advancement but also the result of a robust ecosystem driven by political will and strategic foresight, and by corporate innovation based on market forces. The Chinese government’s proactive policies and investments in digital infrastructure have allowed companies and entrepreneurs to flourish, making China a world leader in artificial intelligence, big data, and cellular network technology. China has successfully advanced its 5G capabilities and is now progressing towards 5G Advanced (5G-A), laying the groundwork for the future deployment of 6G. This digital transformation is not only transforming China but also reshaping global industries.

Since 2021, China has been deeply committed to environmental sustainability, continuing its push towards green transformation. Far from simply following global trends, China is leading the way in numerous sectors, especially in clean energy and green transportation. Companies like BYD have emerged as global leaders in electric vehicle production, while China’s investments in renewable energy, including solar and wind power, have placed the country at the forefront of global environmental efforts. The 14th Five-Year Plan underscores China’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, making the country a key player in the fight against climate change. By prioritizing green development, China not only seeks to mitigate environmental risks but also to foster new industries that will drive future growth. According to some estimates, clean-energy technologies accounted for a record 10 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product in 2024, and this figure could increase further this year.

A major but often overlooked achievement of the 14th Five-Year Plan is the modernization of China’s rural areas. The concept of “rural revitalization’’ is one of the most ambitious and transformative aspects of the plan. It focuses on improving living standards, upgrading infrastructure, and encouraging entrepreneurial ventures in rural regions. This initiative is characterized by a combination of large-scale infrastructure development, such as new roads and high-speed rail networks, and the promotion of private sector engagement. As a result, rural areas across China are undergoing significant transformations, which not only improve the quality of life for residents but also open up new opportunities for businesses and investors. This shift is an important part of China’s broader effort to reduce the urban-rural divide and ensure more equitable development across the country.

Another key achievement highlighted in the 14th Five-Year Plan is the optimization of regional development. The creation of new urban centers and the acceleration of regional integration are reshaping the country’s economic and social landscape. A prime example of this is the development of the Greater Bay Area (GBA), a dynamic region that includes Hong Kong, Macao, and nine cities in Guangdong Province. The GBA is not only a major economic hub for China but also a powerful engine for technological innovation and industrial collaboration. Through my involvement in the creation of a book on the GBA, Inspiring GBA, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact this regional development is having, not just within China, but also on Southeast Asia. The GBA is setting new standards for urban development and integration, offering a model for other regions in China and across the globe.

Finally, the 14th Five-Year Plan underscores the importance of cultural soft power. China has increasingly recognized the role of culture in shaping its global image and influence. In recent years, the country has witnessed a rapid expansion of its cultural infrastructure, with new museums, art galleries, and performance spaces opening across the country. These cultural spaces have become vibrant hubs for artistic expression and education, attracting millions of visitors, both from China and abroad. Moreover, the success of films such as Ne Zha 2 highlights the vitality of Chinese culture and its growing influence on global entertainment. The emphasis on cultural development not only enriches China’s domestic identity but also strengthens its global position as a cultural power.

Some continue to point to a so-called Chinese lack of transparency. However, it is clear that the Chinese government has made significant strides in open communication on its intentions and progress. Official documents, such as the Five-Year Plan, offer invaluable insights into China’s policy direction and long-term goals. Observers can track China’s transformation by carefully studying these documents, which provide a clear roadmap for future development.

The country’s ability to implement strategic plans on a national scale not only highlights the effectiveness of its governance model but also its capacity to navigate complex global challenges. In a world of uncertainties, China stands out as a pillar of stability and predictability with a sense of global responsibility.

The article reflects the author’s opinions, and not necessarily the views of China Focus.