What is 'two sessions', China's biggest annunal political event?

As China gears up for its most important political event of the year, Beijing is playing host to thousands of delegates for the annual ’two sessions’ that begin on Tuesday.

These high-profile legislative gatherings will bring together not just the nation’s top leaders but also influential figures from the business world, as well as the sports and entertainment industries, at the capital’s Great Hall of the People.

Known as ’lianghui’ in Mandarin, the two sessions will be closely watched throughout the world for the rare glimpse it offers into the Communist Party’s priorities. With China facing financial hurdles and growing geopolitical challenges, the discussions at this annual gathering will play a crucial role in shaping the policies for the world’s second largest economy.

So, what is on the agenda for the two sessions this year, and why is it important? Here’s what you need to know.

What are the ’two sessions'?

The two sessions refer to two major political gatherings held simultaneously in China—its top legislature and a separate political advisory body.

The first of these, set to begin on Tuesday, is the meeting of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), a political advisory committee. Over the years, its members have included well-known figures such as actor Jackie Chan and NBA star Yao Ming. While the CPPCC provides lawmakers with policy suggestions, its discussions are largely symbolic and have little direct influence on national policy. Representatives from Macau, Hong Kong, and Taiwan also participate in this session.

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However, the real focus will be on the National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s top legislative body, which convenes on Wednesday.

With around two-thirds of its members belonging to the Communist Party, the NPC has never rejected a bill proposed by the party. This is why it is often referred to as a “rubber-stamp” parliament, as its role is largely to formalise decisions already made by the party leadership.

Why do the ‘two sessions’ matter?

Though the week-long meetings lack real political debate, they play a crucial role in revealing China’s policy priorities, particularly in areas like economic growth, military expansion, and foreign relations.

During the NPC’s opening session, Premier Li Qiang will present the government work report, outlining key economic targets and strategies for the year ahead.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi is also set to hold a press conference, offering insights into China’s stance on global tensions and diplomatic challenges.

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Notably, this will mark the second consecutive year without a premier’s press conference—a tradition that was once a key moment in the closing session.

What are the key issues to watch?

Analysts will be closely watching for signs of how China plans to revive its economy, which has struggled to regain momentum since the pandemic.

The world’s second-largest economy is battling weak domestic demand, an ongoing property sector crisis, and rising youth unemployment. Adding to its challenges, the country faces the risk of further US tariffs, which could impact trade worth hundreds of billions of dollars.

During the two sessions, Beijing is expected to set its official growth targets for 2025. Last year, China’s GDP grew by five percent—its lowest rate since 1990, excluding the pandemic years.

The event will also see the announcement of China’s annual military budget, amid growing tensions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait.

Meanwhile, investors will be looking for indications of stronger support for the private sector, especially following President Xi Jinping’s recent meeting with Chinese tech tycoons. Many viewed the discussions as a potential shift in approach, after years of crackdowns on industries accused of “disorderly” expansion.

With input from AFP