TL;DR
Li Qiang advocates for China's high-quality development by prioritizing economic reform, innovation, and international openness.
Key Points
He presented the Government Work Report to the National People's Congress on March 5, 2026, detailing the 2026 GDP growth target of 4.5 to 5 percent.
The Premier has called on China to actively implement the Global Development Initiative (GDI) and work to secure a stable and open international environment for development.
He has been credited as pro-business, having previously implemented policies like opening the Shanghai Stock Exchange STAR Market and supporting the platform economy.
Summary
Li Qiang, in his capacity as Premier of China, has strongly advocated for a transition toward what is termed "high-quality growth," moving away from a primary reliance on exports and construction. This stance is primarily evidenced through his government work reports, such as setting a GDP growth target for 2026 in the range of 4.5 to 5 percent, the first time the figure dropped below 5 percent since 1991. He champions this more conservative, quality-focused approach as a shift away from a "number-first" mindset, aiming for tangible results like increased household income and better public services, while recognizing the need for industrial self-reliance amidst external political headwinds.
He has consistently voiced support for the private sector and economic reforms, often citing the necessity of reducing bureaucratic interference in the market. His official actions include encouraging foreign investment, meeting with international business executives to promise wider market access, and emphasizing technological advancement in areas like AI and the "real economy." Furthermore, the Premier stresses the importance of global cooperation, calling on international bodies to reject protectionism and maintain multilateralism, while China itself commits to initiatives like the Global Development Initiative and increasing financial support for developing nations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Li Qiang's main economic focus is promoting "high-quality growth" for China. He advocates for transitioning the economy to be driven by consumption and cutting-edge technology rather than manufacturing and exports. This shift is reflected in setting more conservative, realistic GDP targets for the coming years.
The Premier has strongly stated that China will unswervingly stick to opening up and called on international bodies to reject protectionism. He criticizes moves like decoupling and has promised foreign businesses greater access to the Chinese market.
Li Qiang is generally regarded as supportive of private entrepreneurs and economic reforms, viewing the private economy as vital for urban and national development. He has worked to reassure business leaders and has called for policies that benefit both the public and businesses.
Sources7
Takeaways from Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s government work report
China economic growth target set below 5% for the first time at key meeting | Business and Economy News | Al Jazeera
Li Qiang - Wikipedia
Address by Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the High-Level Meeting on the Global Development Initiative
China sets lowest GDP growth target for decades as it braces for economic slowdown
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* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.