China's Commerce Ministry sets out key priorities for 2026

China's Ministry of Commerce said on Sunday that its key priorities for 2026 include boosting domestic consumption and advancing high-level opening up, following a meeting held in Beijing from January 10 to 11.

The ministry said it will promote the "Shop in China," "China Exports," and "Invest in China" events, alongside measures such as optimizing consumer goods trade-in policies, fostering digital, green and health-related consumption, and tapping demand in lower-tier markets. Efforts will also focus on advancing integrated domestic and foreign trade and strengthening modern circulation systems.

On external economic and trade cooperation, the ministry said it will enhance trade innovation and expand openness through deeper cooperation with Belt and Road partner countries, the development of Silk Road e-commerce, and the expansion of free trade agreement networks to strengthen global economic ties.

It added that priorities also include balancing development and security by strengthening foreign-related legal frameworks and enhancing risk prevention mechanisms to safeguard industrial and supply chain resilience. The initiatives aim to lay a solid foundation for the start of the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30) and support high-quality economic development.