What public spending pays for in China: mission, value and performance

Shaolong Wu, Wenxin Zou and Meili Niu

Chapter 7 in Handbook of Public Finance in China, 2026, pp 135-163 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Since China's reform and opening up, public spending has aimed to build a modernised nation, with strategic goals evolving over time. This chapter examines the growth and structural shifts in public spending, driven by market transition and the government's dual focus on market reform and social protection. This ‘double movement’ influences both horizontal spending across ‘four budgets’ and vertical spending between central and local governments. The analysis highlights five key areas – education, social security, healthcare, science and technology, and environmental protection – assessing their impact on social equity, social stability, universal health coverage, innovation, and sustainable development.

Keywords: Double movement; Four budgets; Key public spendings; Budgetary capacity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035311705
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