China’s Party Plenum to Prioritize Tech Innovation and Economic Resilience, Expert Says

Technology Focus in Upcoming Party Meeting

China’s Communist Party is set to convene a major gathering of over 200 top leaders in Beijing this week, with technology advancement emerging as a primary focus, according to long-time China expert Ken Jarrett. Sources indicate the October 20-23 plenum will review the framework for the country’s next five-year economic plan, scheduled for finalization in the first half of 2026.

Technology Focus in Upcoming Party Meeting
High-Quality Development and Innovation
Economic Resilience and Localization
Continuity in Planning
Mixed Business Sentiment

High-Quality Development and Innovation

Analysts suggest the party’s announcement already signals a strong emphasis on technological innovation. “The plan should focus on high-quality development as well as developing new-quality productive forces in light of local conditions,” Jarrett noted, explaining that this terminology typically indicates a focus on high-technology innovation and cutting-edge technologies.

According to the analysis, these priorities have been shaping Chinese policymaking for several years as the country seeks to restructure its economy toward more technologically advanced and innovative products. The report states this shift includes moving toward higher-quality, greener products and developing capabilities that would reduce vulnerability to geopolitical tensions, particularly the competition with the United States that has limited China’s access to American technology.

Economic Resilience and Localization

The expert suggested observers should pay close attention to discussions about high-quality productive forces and emerging technology sectors that might receive additional emphasis, such as artificial intelligence. The five-year plan is also expected to reveal further intentions to localize production of high-technology items, thereby reducing exposure to changes in U.S. policy that could restrict access to certain products.

This focus comes amid ongoing tensions between China and the United States regarding Chinese access to advanced U.S. semiconductors and control over rare earth minerals. The meeting occurs against a backdrop of Chinese economic growth that reportedly may meet the government’s target of approximately five percent.

Continuity in Planning

Jarrett observed that five-year plans typically maintain considerable continuity since they address all aspects of China’s economic and social development. “There is a lot of continuity in policymaking, and I would argue that will be true in the upcoming 15 five-year plan,” he said.

However, analysts suggest the plenum itself will likely speak in generalities about the plan, with more specific implementation details expected to emerge by March of next year. Official Chinese media has described the gathering as poised to shape the direction of the 15 Five-Year Plan that will steer the world’s second-largest economy from 2026 to 2030.

Mixed Business Sentiment

On related business matters, Jarrett commented on recent survey results from the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai, noting they contained “mixed messages.” While the five-year outlook among members showed a decline he described as “noteworthy,” reflecting concerns about economic growth, global politics, and rising domestic competition, business performance indicators actually improved.

The report states that profitability among members increased to 71% from 66% the previous year, representing what Jarrett characterized as “a turn in the right direction.” He noted that growing competitiveness of local Chinese companies represents a significant concern for American businesses operating in China.

As China prepares for this critical planning session, analysts suggest the outcomes will significantly influence the country’s technological trajectory and economic resilience in the coming years, with particular implications for international technology competition and global supply chains.