Chinese president Xi Jinping, left, and premier Li Qiang during the opening session of the National People's Congress at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Li Qiang announced the growth target at the opening of the Two Sessions. Photograph: Lintao Zhang/Getty ImagesChina has set its lowest annual economic growth target since 1991, acknowledging the adverse impact of the global climate and the challenges faced by Chinese people in finding jobs and improving their incomes. [ EU gets defensive against China with ‘Made in Europe’ planOpens in new window ]Chinese president Xi Jinping and premier Li Qiang. “We took a reasoned, robust, and effective approach to addressing economic and trade issues and stood firm in safeguarding China’s national interests.

Source: The Irish Times March 05, 2026 17:30 UTC