The FYPs have played a pivotal role in initiating and advancing Chinese modernization. They have provided a developmental blueprint for its sustained development, activated institutional effectiveness, and consolidated historical synergy, injecting great certainty into comprehensively advancing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through Chinese modernization.

Throughout the history of the PRC, the FYPs have consistently driven Chinese modernization in their distinct forms and mechanisms. Since the formulation and implementation of the first FYP in 1953, China has produced and executed 14 such plans—nine since the launch of reform and opening up. These plans have vigorously propelled China’s economic and social development, enhanced its composite national strength, and improved the people’s livelihoods, creating two rare miracles in global history: rapid economic growth and long-term social stability.

From the “national economic plans” of the first to the fifth FYPs to the “national economic and social development plans” of the sixth to the 14th, China’s approach has evolved from primarily relying on planned adjustments to “planning as the mainstay, supplemented by market mechanisms,” and then to “an organic integration of an effective market and a well-functioning government.” Despite changes in names, connotations, and mechanisms, the FYPs have consistently propelled the continuous advancement of Chinese modernization with their unique functions.

The FYP’s strategic guiding role stems from its distinct characteristics.

First, the FYP is both scientific and value-driven, positioning itself within the broader national and international contexts, and clarifying the nation’s developmental direction, path, and methods. With a strategic perspective, it adheres to a systematic approach, balancing urban and rural development, regional development, economic and social progress, harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature, and domestic development alongside global engagement. It is people-centered, grounded in the long-term and fundamental interests of the people, and continuously strives to fulfill their aspirations for a better life.

Second, the FYP is both responsive and forward-looking. Both its formulation and implementation consistently adhere to the principle of seeking truth from facts, consciously integrating problem-oriented and goal-oriented approaches. It addresses practical challenges and difficulties in the process of Chinese modernization, tackling major, core, deep-seated, urgent, and prominent issues. At the same time, it aligns with the Party’s highest guidelines, long-term plans, and visionary goals, aligning various economic and social development objectives with the strategic goals of modernization to achieve high-quality development.

Third, the FYP exhibits continuity and stability. From the first to the 14th FYP, the consistent theme has been to build China into a modern socialist country. This continuity provides a clear and stable framework for the healthy advancement of Chinese modernization, serving as an important institutional foundation and policy support for navigating complex international landscapes with confidence.

Yang Binbin is an associate research fellow from the Academy of Marxism at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.