News analysis

‘New productive forces’: China calls for urgent innovation-led growth, but pitfalls remain

“New productive forces” is a repackaging of a 10-year plan rolled out in 2015 to strengthen Chinese manufacturing in high-tech sectors such as new energy vehicles. PHOTO: AFP
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BEIJING – Chinese President Xi Jinping’s latest catchphrase – “new productive forces” – received top billing at the country’s recently concluded annual parliamentary meetings, or Two Sessions.

From lawmakers to provincial delegates, to business leaders like the chairman of a liquor brand, many across China have echoed Mr Xi’s call to create new growth drivers amid a slowing of the economy. 

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