The draft proposals for China’s 15th Five-Year Plan were approved during the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China in October 2025. The final plan is expected to be adopted by the National People’s Congress (NPC) in March 2026.
China's Five-Year Plans have been a cornerstone of its medium- to long-term economic and social development since the 1950s, showcasing strategic foresight, coordinated planning, and consistent execution.
“China’s 15th Five-Year Plan focuses on quality, innovation, and sustainability rather than simply increasing productivity.”
The emphasis on sustainable, technologically driven growth marks a significant strategic shift in China's development policy, balancing environmental responsibility with economic and military progress.
Author’s summary: China’s 15th Five-Year Plan highlights a strategic pivot toward sustainable, innovation-based growth with strict climate goals and coordinated economic and military development.