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Annual political gatherings set to begin in Beijing
China's most significant political event of the year, the "two sessions," kicks off this week in Beijing, offering a glimpse into the ruling Communist Party's strategic direction for the world's second-largest economy. The meetings, which typically span one to two weeks, will convene thousands of delegates from across the country to deliberate on policy, economic targets, and legislative priorities.
What are the 'two sessions'?
The term refers to two distinct gatherings: the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the National People's Congress (NPC). The CPPCC, an advisory body with over 2,000 members from diverse sectors-including non-Communist Party affiliates-opens the proceedings on Wednesday. While its discussions provide insight into policy debates, it holds no legislative authority.
The NPC, China's nominal legislature, begins its session on Thursday. Despite its formal powers to enact laws, amend the constitution, and approve budgets, the NPC is widely regarded as a rubber-stamp institution, endorsing decisions already made by the Communist Party. Established in 1954, the NPC meets annually, bringing together nearly 3,000 delegates representing provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities, and the military. Most delegates are party members or government officials serving five-year terms.
Real decision-making power resides within the NPC's 175-member Standing Committee, which convenes more frequently and is chaired by Zhao Leji, a senior figure in the Communist Party's Politburo Standing Committee.
Why do the sessions matter?
Though the "two sessions" are meticulously orchestrated-featuring pre-approved speeches and tightly controlled media interactions-they serve as a critical barometer for China's policy trajectory. Historically, these gatherings have signaled major shifts, from market reforms in the past to Xi Jinping's push for greater state control over the economy in recent years.
Analysts will scrutinize this year's proceedings for clues about China's economic ambitions, particularly its strategy to transition from a manufacturing hub to a global technology leader. Recent advancements in electric vehicles, solar energy, artificial intelligence, and robotics reflect a deliberate state-driven agenda, and this year's sessions may reveal the next phase of that plan.
"Small policy adjustments in China can send ripple effects worldwide," observers note. "Even seemingly mundane speeches often highlight priorities that shape global industries."
Key issues on the agenda
Economic growth targets
The Government Work Report, delivered by Premier Li Qiang, will review the past year's performance and outline economic goals for 2026. Last year's target was set at "around 5%," and any deviation could signal a shift toward slower, higher-quality growth. The report will also address strategies to stimulate sluggish domestic consumption, a persistent challenge for the economy.
The next Five-Year Plan (2026-2030)
Delegates are expected to approve the new Five-Year Plan, a blueprint for China's development over the next half-decade. The document will shed light on Beijing's long-term priorities, particularly in high-tech and renewable energy sectors, as well as its approach to reviving consumer demand.
Controversial legislation
Among the proposals is an "ethnic unity" law, which human rights groups warn could further marginalize minority communities. The draft legislation seeks to promote Mandarin over regional languages, a move critics say builds on existing policies in Tibet, Xinjiang, and Inner Mongolia that have reduced local language education. It also encourages intermarriage between the Han majority and ethnic minorities and prohibits actions deemed harmful to "ethnic unity." Parents and guardians would be required to "educate and guide minors to love the Chinese Communist Party."
The NPC is also set to approve the Ecological and Environmental Code, a comprehensive framework addressing pollution control, ecological protection, and low-carbon development.
Purges and political signals
The recent removal of high-ranking military officials casts a shadow over the sessions. Xi Jinping's ongoing anti-corruption campaign has led to the dismissal of nine NPC delegates and three CPPCC delegates in recent weeks, with the military experiencing the most significant turnover. Observers will watch for empty seats during the proceedings, as absences often indicate political trouble.
The "two sessions" also unfold against a backdrop of shifting global dynamics. Western leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, have recently engaged with Beijing, seeking to stabilize relations amid uncertainty surrounding the potential return of a Trump administration in the U.S.
