China plans to expand both exports and imports next year to promote “sustainable” trade, a senior economic official said on Saturday. The announcement comes amid concerns over Beijing’s trillion-dollar trade surplus and global criticism of its export-led growth model.
Han Wenxiu, deputy director of the Central Financial and Economic Affairs Commission, said China must “adhere to opening up, promote win-win cooperation, expand exports, and increase imports” to ensure balanced development of foreign trade. The government will also encourage service exports and implement measures to boost household incomes and pensions.
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Han emphasized removing “unreasonable” restrictions in the consumption sector to stimulate domestic demand. Chinese authorities also aim to curb deflationary price wars, known as “involution,” where excessive low-return competition erodes profits and hampers sustainable growth.
The International Monetary Fund has urged Beijing to reduce export dependence and strengthen domestic consumption. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva warned that China’s reliance on exports risks worsening global trade tensions and threatens long-term economic stability.
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Chinese leaders have pledged to maintain a proactive fiscal policy in 2026 to support both consumption and investment. Analysts expect Beijing to target economic growth of around 5 percent, balancing short-term performance with sustainable long-term development.