The Day the Politburo Laid Out 2026 Economic Plans

Chinese state media shifted focus from the Macron visit to domestic policy, beginning the day by highlighting President Xi Jinping's economic thought and the revised regulations for CPC working bodies. Concurrently, a diplomatic dispute escalated with China rebutting Japan's claims of radar illumination by Liaoning jets. By late morning, the Politburo meeting became the dominant narrative, with extensive reports on its discussions concerning 2026 economic work and new regulations on law-based governance. The South China Morning Post noted the Politburo's pledge for a more proactive fiscal policy due to trade struggles. Hong Kong outlets reported on low voter turnout and a new high in invalid votes for the legislative polls, following the Tai Po fire relief efforts.