By Special Correspondent

China’s economy expanded by 5 percent in 2025, with the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) reaching 140.19 trillion yuan, according to the government work report reviewed at the national legislative session in Beijing.

The report notes that the growth was achieved amid a complex international environment and reflects continued progress in China’s efforts to promote high-quality development.

According to the report, stable economic expansion helped support employment, strengthen public services and maintain overall economic stability.

China’s foreign trade sector also recorded steady growth during the year. Exports increased by 6.1 percent, reflecting resilience in external trade despite uncertainties in the global economy.

The report states that the labour market remained stable as well. China created 12.67 million new urban jobs in 2025, while the surveyed urban unemployment rate averaged about 5.2 percent.

Agricultural production also remained strong. China’s grain output reached 715 million tonnes during the year, helping strengthen national food security.

Industrial development continued to advance, with high-tech manufacturing registering faster growth than traditional industries. The report notes that output of several advanced products grew rapidly, reflecting progress in industrial upgrading and technological innovation.

China also recorded continued progress in emerging industries such as new-energy vehicles, digital technologies and advanced manufacturing equipment.

According to the report, innovation remained an important driver of economic development. Research and development spending reached 2.8 percent of GDP during the year.

Efforts to expand domestic demand and promote industrial transformation also contributed to economic growth.

The report states that authorities continued implementing coordinated macroeconomic policies aimed at stabilizing growth, supporting employment and strengthening new drivers of development.

China also made progress in improving energy efficiency and promoting green development. Energy consumption per unit of GDP declined by 5.1 percent during the year.

The government said China will continue advancing high-quality development, strengthening innovation capacity and expanding domestic demand as part of efforts to sustain stable economic growth.

Credit: INP-WealthPk