Chinese leaders are expected to cut their growth target to allow more flexibility in overhauling their slowing, state-dominated economy when their legislature meets this week. But they are unlikely to unveil significant new reforms.
The annual gathering of the National People's Congress is largely ceremonial, doing little lawmaking and instead providing a platform to publicize the Communist Party's priorities. This year, delegates will focus on the ruling party's new development plan - the latest chapter in a marathon effort to transform China into a middle-income economy with self-sustaining growth driven by consumer spending instead of investment, trade and heavy industry.
Critics complain the party is dragging its feet on tackling one of the most important elements of that: The politically daunting challenge of reining in state companies they say are a drag on growth.
