TL;DR
He Lifeng's tenure indicates a focus on strengthening the National Development and Reform Commission's role in economic planning.
Key Points
He Lifeng previously chaired the Fujian Provincial Development and Reform Commission.
His ascent has coincided with a top subordinate joining the NDRC’s central planning staff.
The NDRC was involved in promoting green finance initiatives during 2022.
Summary
He Lifeng's position concerning the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) appears to be one of institutional support and continuation of its central economic planning role, particularly given his elevation to Vice Premier and his background. Evidence suggests he views the agency as essential for steering the nation's complex economy, a view supported by his former subordinate joining the top NDRC planning body after his promotion.
His previous roles, including heading the Fujian Development and Reform Commission, provided him with deep familiarity with the commission's mechanisms, suggesting he advocates for its strategic importance. His subsequent appointment to oversee economic policy, including finance and development, implies a mandate to utilize the NDRC structure for implementing the current administration's long-term economic blueprints, such as those related to the Belt and Road Initiative.
Key Quotes
China has formed a new high-level climate leading group led by Vice Premier Han Zheng. It includes top leaders Vice Premier Liu He, State Council member Wang Yong, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and NDRC Chairman He Lifeng.
In his current role as Vice Premier, He Lifeng is actively co-chairing the bilateral economic dialogue, where he represents China's economic interests on the global stage. ... Under his leadership, the NDRC focused on new areas of economic growth including renewable energy, infrastructure development, and international trade agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
He Lifeng has significant experience with the NDRC's provincial counterpart, having chaired the Fujian Provincial Development and Reform Commission. This background suggests an intimate understanding of the agency’s planning and coordinating functions. This familiarity likely informs his current approach to central economic policy.
Yes, the appointment of a former subordinate to a key post within the NDRC planning apparatus indicates He Lifeng's trust and reliance on the commission. This action supports the view that he favors strengthening the body's role in implementing current economic strategy.
He Lifeng currently serves as a Vice Premier of China and directs the Office of the Central Financial and Economic Affairs Commission. This position places him at the apex of national economic and financial oversight, directly interacting with the NDRC's purview.
Sources7
He Lifeng - Wikipedia
Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng’s growing influence in economic policy shown as former subordinate joins top NDRC planning body
Climate on the NDRC Docket
NDRC Held a Thematic Press Conference on Promoting Green and Low-Carbon Development
China-US talks: Trade envoy He Lifeng’s mission impossible?
H.E. Mr. He Lifeng meets with Chairman of the Board of China Development Bank on Expanding CPEC Cooperation
Xi Jinping’s New Economic Team and Government Re-Organization
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.