# macroeconomic policy

China’s Modest Ambition: Why Beijing Set a 4.5–5% Growth Target — and Left Room to Do Better

China set a 2026 GDP growth target of 4.5–5%, coupled with a government pledge to “strive for better results.” The two‑line formulation balances room for structural reform and risk reduction with a readiness to deploy active, targeted policies to lift growth if conditions allow.