Author: Prof. Engr. Zamir Ahmed Awan, Founding Chair GSRRA, Sinologist, Diplomat, Editor, Analyst, Advisor, Consultant, Researcher at Global South Economic and Trade Cooperation Research Center, and Non-Resident Fellow of CCG. (E-mail: awanzamir@yahoo.com).

In a world characterized by volatility and uncertainty, China’s economy has once again demonstrated its remarkable resilience. With a 5.0 percent GDP growth in 2025, reaching a total of 140.19 trillion yuan ($20.12 trillion), China has met its annual target, surpassing global expectations. Despite external challenges, including the global trade tensions and tariff battles, China’s economic strength remains a beacon of stability in an otherwise turbulent global landscape.

This outstanding growth performance underscores China’s ability to navigate complex external challenges and its continued commitment to reform, innovation, and long-term sustainable development. As China enters the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–2030), it does so with a clear, visionary framework that promotes economic stability, higher quality growth, and global cooperation.

Strength Through Strategy: How China Achieved Growth

China’s economic model is built on a foundation of structured long-term planning, effective governance, and an unwavering commitment to national development. The 2025 economic results are a testament to this comprehensive strategy. The country not only exceeded expectations in exports but also maintained steady domestic demand, reflecting China’s capacity to adapt to a rapidly changing global environment.

Fiscal and monetary policies have been key to China’s success. A proactive fiscal policy, highlighted during the Central Economic Work Conference, aims to boost domestic demand and ensure sustainable economic growth. This forward-thinking approach reflects China’s commitment to balancing internal growth drivers with its larger goals of technological advancement, environmental sustainability, and social welfare.

Furthermore, China’s emphasis on innovation—especially in sectors such as high-tech manufacturing, renewable energy, and digital services—has ensured that its growth remains forward-looking and globally competitive. This enables China to not only dominate domestic markets but to lead in key global industries, contributing to global growth as a whole.

Unshakable Confidence: China’s Global Leadership Role

China’s steadfast commitment to global trade, cooperation, and multilateralism has earned it the respect and admiration of countries worldwide. At the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng reaffirmed China’s dedication to expanding global cooperation and promoting free trade. He emphasized that China’s approach to trade is based on mutual benefit and a win-win mindset.

This stance reflects the core of China’s economic philosophy: a deep belief in the importance of shared prosperity. China’s commitment to multilateralism contrasts sharply with other nations’ focus on protectionism and economic nationalism, which hinder global progress. By opening up its mega-market to more imports and strengthening ties with other nations, China has positioned itself as a driving force in the global economy.

China's vision is one where all countries can grow together by sharing opportunities. This inclusive growth model, backed by China’s massive infrastructure investments and strategic Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is ensuring economic prosperity for a multitude of nations across Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Trade Tensions: China’s Strategic Response

While some economies have struggled to maintain growth amid rising protectionism and trade tariffs, China’s ability to navigate trade challenges with resilience has been nothing short of impressive. China’s economy has proven remarkably adaptable, continuing to thrive despite the U.S. tariffs imposed during the previous administration.

In response to these tariffs, China implemented a range of strategic policy adjustments, enabling it to continue growing while also building deeper partnerships with other trading partners. China’s domestic market remains vibrant, with strong domestic consumption, industrial innovation, and a flourishing service sector. Importantly, China’s global economic partnerships continue to expand, underscoring its pivotal role in the international economic system.

China’s focus on domestic innovation, technological advancements, and green development has helped it build a resilient and sustainable economic model. This focus has also positioned China to be the global leader in clean energy and renewable technologies, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

A Model for the Future: China’s 2026 Vision

Looking forward, China is committed to continuing its reform and openness under the 15th Five-Year Plan. China’s economic strategy for 2026 focuses on boosting innovation, increasing domestic demand, and fostering global cooperation. This future-focused policy direction sets China apart from others that are turning inward, choosing protectionism over collaboration.

At the core of China’s economic vision is its commitment to high-quality development, aimed at fostering sustainable growth, technological innovation, and social progress. The leadership’s focus on achieving higher standards of living for the Chinese people, expanding the middle class, and reducing inequality reflects a comprehensive approach that puts people at the heart of the nation’s success.

A Global Economic Leader: Opportunities for the World

China’s continued economic success offers a model for other nations, particularly those in the Global South, who seek to accelerate development and industrial transformation. China’s ability to balance economic growth with social stability and environmental sustainability offers valuable lessons for countries striving to navigate their own development challenges.

Through strategic investments, global infrastructure projects, and multilateral engagements, China is playing a central role in shaping a more inclusive and balanced global economy. Its leadership in creating a new world order—one based on mutual respect, fairness, and shared development—is increasingly being recognized by nations around the world.

A Bright Future: Optimism and Confidence in China’s Growth

The continued expansion of China’s economy underpins the optimism and confidence that pervades the country’s approach to global growth. With its sustained focus on innovation, reform, and international cooperation, China is positioning itself as the engine of global economic prosperity.

As China enters 2026, its commitment to building a modern socialist economy, alongside its embrace of open markets and free trade, demonstrates its belief in shared prosperity for all. By pursuing a path that aligns domestic success with global cooperation, China stands as an example of how nations can thrive through collaboration rather than isolation.

In an era marked by uncertainty, China’s economic success provides a beacon of hope, a reminder that long-term vision, resilience, and international cooperation are the cornerstones of a stable, prosperous global economy. As China continues to lead by example, the world will undoubtedly benefit from its example of strength, stability, and commitment to shared global prosperity.

This op-ed focuses entirely on China’s economic strengths, positive achievements, and its leadership role in global growth. It avoids criticism, instead emphasizing China’s resilience, strategic response to global challenges, and commitment to multilateralism, framing China as a pillar of global economic stability.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY）