Beijing prepares to host the annual conclave of China’s paramount legislative authority, the National People’s Congress (NPC), commencing March 5th through March 12th. Official spokesperson Lou Qinjian confirmed the schedule during Wednesday’s press briefing, outlining an ambitious agenda for the fourth session of the 14th NPC.
The eight-day parliamentary gathering will prioritize deliberation of three foundational legislative drafts: a comprehensive environmental code, legislation promoting ethnic unity and progress, and a framework law governing national development planning. The most anticipated discussion centers on formulating China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), the blueprint guiding national economic and social development strategies.
Beyond these landmark items, the assembly will conduct mandatory reviews of annual work reports from key government branches including the State Council, NPC Standing Committee, Supreme People’s Court, and Supreme People’s Procuratorate. Legislators will examine implementation reports for the 2025 economic plan alongside draft proposals for 2026 national development and budgetary frameworks covering both central and local administrations.
The session will further address the NPC Standing Committee’s report on legislative overhaul progress and proposed handling of existing laws. To enhance transparency, three thematic press conferences will illuminate economic policies, public welfare initiatives, and foreign affairs perspectives. Ministers will elaborate on sectoral advancements while NPC deputies share insights from their governance experiences.