China outlines measures to stabilize property market in 2026

China's housing authorities have outlined key tasks for the property sector in 2026, emphasizing targeted city-by-city measures to stabilize the real estate market, according to statements from a national work conference.

The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development concluded its national work conference on Tuesday, setting the agenda for the property market and urban development for the coming year and the broader 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030).

The ministry stressed that the primary focus for 2026 will be stabilizing the real estate market. The strategy includes controlling new supply, reducing existing housing inventory, and optimizing the supply structure.

A central mechanism for achieving inventory reduction will be the revitalization of existing land and properties, a measure involving facilitating the purchase of unsold commercial housing stock by local governments or state-owned entities. These properties would then be converted into affordable housing, resettlement homes, dormitories, and homes for talent.

The ministry pledged to optimize and precisely implement the supply of government-subsidized housing and to launch projects aimed at improving overall housing quality.

It further highlighted the role of the "white list" mechanism for real estate projects. This system, designed to identify developments in need of financial support, is credited with providing funding guarantees for the completion and delivery of pre-sold homes.

The ministry vowed to enhance the mechanism's effectiveness to support reasonable financing needs for developers.

Urban renewal

Beyond the property market, the 2026 plan calls for high-quality urban renewal and more efficient city governance. This includes plans for renovating old residential communities, opening up green spaces, and improving accessibility and elderly-friendly environments.

The ministry also committed to high-quality implementation of projects related to major national strategies and new infrastructure, along with continuing the nationwide campaign to upgrade underground utility networks and build comprehensive utility tunnels.