China meets annual GDP target, US tally of top scientists surpassed: SCMP daily highlights

From China logging 5 per cent GDP growth to a call to unplug the Great Firewall, here’s a round-up from today’s China and economy coverage

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The financial district of Pudong in Shanghai, China. Photo: Reuters

Published: 9:40pm, 17 Jan 2025

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1. China logs 5% GDP growth in 2024 as exports, stimulus provide year-end boost

China has reached its 2024 target for economic growth, recording a 5 per cent increase to its gross domestic product despite numerous internal and external challenges – an achievement which may give Beijing’s policymakers the necessary confidence to handle what is likely to be an even more trying 2025 as US president-elect Donald Trump prepares for his second term.

2. Chinese Vice-President Han Zheng to attend Donald Trump’s inauguration

China says Vice-President Han Zheng will attend US president-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration ceremony in Washington on Monday. It will mark the first time that a senior Chinese leader has been present at such an occasion.

3. China overtakes US in number of top scientists, signalling global talent shift

For the first time, China has overtaken the US in the number of leading scientists it has, according to a new report. Photo: Shutterstock

China has overtaken the United States for the first time in the number of its high-level science and technology experts, according to a new report.