Governance

Pondering the possibility that China’s economy is going the way of Japan's 30 years ago, Japanese researcher Toshiya Tsugami analyses some similarities and differences between the two trajectories.

"People from northeastern China are like African Americans or Osakans. We have a history of wandering, irrational optimism and a sense of righteous clannishness. In our veins runs comic talent, along with being governed and discriminated against. Under all the snow and ice lie warm poems and folk songs, while the wild fires, steel and concrete encase a helpless rebelliousness. We understand everything, we know everything, but we choose to be kind. We are forced to leave our homes to seek a place that will accept us. We will say nothing. Our leather coats and dark glasses will never come off. We will tell you: 'This is nothing to us.'" - Bai Yi, comic artist

Zaobao correspondent Yang Danxu looks at the first press conference by new Chinese Premier Li Qiang, and notes how he has defined the role of the new government as an "implementation team", which will faithfully uphold the authority of the CCP Central Committee and implement the plans of the 20th Party Congress.

Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan looks at the new Chinese government installed over the weekend, noting the gradual weakening of power of the State Council, just as many of President Xi’s close aides are appointed to the executive body. What might this mean for China’s leadership in the future?

One highlight of the recent report from China’s Two Sessions is the proposed reforms to the financial regulatory system. Among the changes is to place regulators under the civil service system, which would mean salary cuts of 50% or more, along with stricter regulations on staff resignations. Will China's reforms for common prosperity work?

China’s top officials have set out the target for the country’s economic growth and drivers for 2023, but the real work is just beginning. To meet economic growth targets and ensure economic recovery, it seems that the basic idea is to boost domestic demand and support the private sector.

Li Keqiang delivered his last government work report on 5 March in his capacity as Chinese premier, a role he had held for a decade. With his departure from the scene comes the retreat of fellow CYL faction cadres, and the retirement of the political leaders of Xi’s generation. Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan has the details.

The 20th Party Congress set the direction for the Chinese Communist Party, but it is the upcoming Two Sessions that measures will be discussed and put into action. The highlight is the likely reforms to national security agencies, as well as finance and other sectors.

After three years of stringent Covid-19 measures, Shanghai is on its road to economic recovery. While the impact of the pandemic was severe, Shanghai officials are making efforts to bring back and reassure foreign enterprises of a conducive business environment. Zaobao correspondent Chen Jing looks at the steps taken by the officials and how effective they are.