Priority sectors, market access and investment commitments shaping the regulatory and business framework for the next five years.
China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, approved on 12 March 2026 and running through 2030, sets the country’s economic, sectoral and regulatory priorities for the next five years. For Spanish companies with operations or expansion plans in China, the document defines which sectors are opening up, which are being protected, and how domestic demand will evolve.
What changes for foreign companies:
Sectors with greater opening. The plan expands institutional access in value-added telecommunications services, biotechnology, foreign-invested hospitals and cultural industries. It also includes a reduction of foreign investment negative lists, support for reinvestment and facilitation of secure cross-border data flows.
Sectors facing increased local competition. R&D spending will grow by more than 7% annually, with the objective of achieving decisive breakthroughs in integrated circuits, industrial software and advanced materials. Spanish companies supplying components or industrial technology in these areas should anticipate progressive substitution by local providers.
Domestic consumption — a new demand lever. The plan provides for minimum wage increases and an expansion of healthcare and pension coverage to reduce household savings rates and activate private spending. For companies in food, consumer goods, tourism or premium services, this structural rebalancing represents a real market opportunity.
Energy transition — public contracts and technical collaboration. The plan sets a binding target for 2030: a 17% reduction in carbon emissions per unit of GDP and an increase in non-fossil energy to 25% of total consumption. Accelerated investment is expected in smart grids, hydrogen and clean fuel industries. Spanish companies in engineering, renewable energy and infrastructure have direct access to this public investment cycle.
Regulatory framework for foreign investment. The plan expands private sector participation in large projects, uses public investment funds to leverage private capital, and introduces reforms to investment approval procedures to improve transparency and efficiency. Campaigns such as “Invest in China” are being institutionalised, and pilot programmes that have already opened up access in telecoms, healthcare and education are being expanded.
Practical impact: Market access in China will remain oriented towards advanced manufacturing, green energy, digital technologies and high-value services. The plan defines the regulatory and sectoral map through 2030. Companies that align their China strategy with these priorities now will have a competitive advantage in accessing public tenders, local partners and establishment incentives.
We are at your disposal to advise you on all legal, tax and international mobility matters related to your operations in China. Contact us for a personalised consultation.
