China sets dates for ‘two sessions’ as investors await 2025 economic growth target

Premier Li Qiang expected to deliver work report when top legislature’s meeting opens on March 5, but he will skip press conference again

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During the “two sessions” in March, the Chinese government is expected to reveal its annual policy plans for the economy, military, trade, diplomacy and the environment. Photo: Xinhua

Published: 2:13pm, 25 Dec 2024Updated: 4:08pm, 25 Dec 2024

China’s top legislature will begin its annual parliamentary meeting on March 5 next year – a session that will be closely watched by investors as Beijing will announce its growth target and decide on ways to stimulate the country’s stalled economy.

The start date of the third annual session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) in Beijing was announced by the NPC Standing Committee on Wednesday.

On the same day, the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the country’s top political advisory body, announced March 4 as the tentative start date for its annual session.

China typically holds these meetings, known as the “two sessions”, in early March.

During the meetings, the Chinese government is expected to reveal its annual policy plans for the economy, military, trade, diplomacy, the environment and other areas for deliberation and approval.

The meeting is expected to last about a week, with President Xi Jinping and other top Communist Party leaders joining the group discussions. Xi’s speeches during these deliberation sessions are usually regarded as important signs of China’s priorities and direction.