"Five-Year Plans" have been a cornerstone of Chinese social and economic development initiatives since 1953. During the thirteenth of these periods between 2016 and 2020, the global economy has experienced instability after the financial crisis, as well as political and economic reconfiguration. Drawing on modern economic theory, this book comprehensively discusses China's economic development in this crucial phase.

The book analyzes the international economic environment, and asks how China’s continued reform and opening-up can fit with the new era of economic globalization. It also presents the difficulties China faces in such fields as urbanization, the coordination of regional development and urban-rural integration, economic reform, and the reform of factor markets and state-owned enterprises.

The book outlines many medium-term development rules along with key characteristics of China's economy, helping international readers fully understand likely future trajectories for the Chinese economy.