China prioritises energy security

The issue took centre stage at the Communist Party’s annual ‘two sessions’ meetings on economic policy for the year ahead

China has made energy security one of its economic priorities this year as the world’s biggest energy importer looks to lock in supply to ensure economic stability and achieve ambitious annual growth plans. The National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference—the country’s parliament and top political advisory body respectively—held their annual meetings in Beijing in March. The ‘two sessions’ are the biggest event of China’s calendar and set the economic policy direction for the year. China’s government work report, delivered on the opening day of the NPC on 5 March by Premier Li Keqiang, stressed stability, expansion of domestic demand, and food a