Sigma Live

China's Growth Expected to be Slowest in 30 Years

Published January 16, 2026, 10:21
China's Growth Expected to be Slowest in 30 Years

Analysts estimate that China's economic growth in 2025 will be the weakest in the last 30 years, excluding the pandemic period, likely around 4.9%. Despite Beijing's efforts to support the property market and domestic consumption, exports have been limited due to tariffs imposed by the United States. Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that growth is likely to achieve the annual target of “around 5%”, but economists express doubts. The composition of growth is considered “deeply uneven”, with official figures masking the weak economic situation. The main problem lies in the real estate sector, which has failed to overcome the debt crisis despite interest rate cuts and easing of restrictions. Investment in real estate and infrastructure has decreased, and further problems are expected in 2026. Analysts warn that without bolder measures, such as converting the housing stock into affordable housing, the sector will remain unstable and continue to hinder economic growth.