China NDRC Official Says Recovery Momentum Weak Despite Resilient Growth, Drafting 2026-2030 Demand Plan

China's economy has withstood pressure and continues to expand steadily, but the recovery foundation and momentum remain relatively weak, an economic official at the National Development and Reform Commission said at a press conference on Tuesday. The comments followed better-than-expected third-quarter growth data released on Monday, as strong exports offset weak consumer spending. Zuo Gang, deputy director for the Department of National Economic Comprehensive Affairs at the NDRC, said the impact of external shocks is deepening and the mismatch between strong supply and weak domestic demand remains pronounced. Zuo added that divergence across industries is evident and the foundation for a sustained recovery remains weak. The NDRC, China's top economic planner, is drafting an implementation plan for its domestic demand expansion strategy for 2026-2030 and will accelerate efforts to issue and implement it.