China Unveils Circular Economy Plan Through 2030
China has released a new national plan to accelerate the development of its circular economy during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–2030), aiming to improve resource efficiency and support green, high-quality growth.
According to the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), the plan targets a more integrated circular economy covering production, consumption, recycling, and resource utilization by 2030. The country’s resource recycling industry is expected to reach an output value of 8 trillion yuan (approximately US$1.2 trillion).
Looking further ahead, China aims to establish a high-quality circular economy system by 2035, with the efficiency of major resource utilization reaching world-leading levels.
The plan outlines several key priorities, including improving industrial resource recycling, promoting ecological recycling in agriculture and forestry, and expanding the use of recycled materials across industries.
It also encourages the import of high-quality recycled raw materials while strengthening regulations governing the circulation and trading of second-hand goods.
In addition, China will optimize the industrial layout of the circular economy, accelerate technology and equipment upgrades, and support the development of recycling-related service industries.
The NDRC said the circular economy is a key component of China’s long-term development strategy and will play an important role in advancing high-quality economic growth while supporting the country’s carbon goals.
China has pledged to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
