Xi Jinping is worried about the economy - what do Chinese people think?

Xi Jinping's Concerns Over the Economy and the Perspective of the Chinese People In a nation where public opinion is closely monitored and often kept under wraps, two new pieces of research have emerged, providing a rare insight into the sentiments of the Chinese populace regarding their economic outlook. Amidst this, President Xi Jinping has voiced concerns over the country's economic trajectory, a sentiment that seems to resonate with the general mood of the people. China, a global economic powerhouse, has long been seen as an unstoppable force of growth and development. However, recent challenges have begun to cast shadows on this narrative. Among these challenges are the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which initially saw China implementing stringent measures to curb the spread of the virus but also significantly impacted economic activities. Additionally, tensions with trade partners, internal market regulations, and environmental concerns have introduced further complications into China's economic landscape. The two pieces of research shed light on how these factors are influencing Chinese citizens' outlook towards their economic future. Whilst specific details of the research methodologies or the direct responses of participants are not disclosed, the findings indicate a sense of apprehension concerning economic prospects among the Chinese population. This concern is not unfounded. China's economic growth, while still positive, has seen a noticeable slowdown in recent years. The once double-digit GDP growth rates have tapered off, leading to adjustments in both national and global expectations. More so, the youth unemployment rate in China has risen sharply, signaling a potentially volatile socio-economic issue.