BEIJING — Chinese officials said on Wednesday that monetary policy would remain appropriately accommodative while providing stronger support for economic growth, as the State Council Information Office held a briefing on the implementation of monetary policy and financial statistics for the first half of 2026.
People's Bank of China (PBOC) Deputy Governor Zou Lan, speaking at the briefing, outlined the central bank's assessment of monetary conditions and financial data for the first six months of the year, as policymakers seek to sustain growth amid weakening domestic demand and continued strains in the property sector.
The briefing came hours after China released first-half economic data and as investors looked for signals on whether authorities would introduce additional policy support in the second half of the year.
Chinese policymakers have repeatedly said they will pursue a prudent monetary policy while maintaining ample liquidity and improving support for the real economy. Officials have also emphasized the use of structural monetary policy tools to channel financing toward key areas, including technological innovation, advanced manufacturing, green development and smaller businesses.
The PBOC said it would continue to balance support for economic activity with the need to guard against financial risks, while maintaining reasonably sufficient liquidity in the banking system. Officials also reviewed financial statistics for the first half of the year and discussed credit conditions and financing trends.
The monetary policy briefing follows recent comments by Premier Li Qiang calling for stronger counter-cyclical policy adjustments and a comprehensive assessment of China's economic conditions as growth moderates.
Economists expect Beijing to rely primarily on targeted fiscal measures while keeping monetary policy supportive but measured. Analysts surveyed by Reuters ahead of second-quarter economic data forecast annual growth of about 4.5% in the April-June period, compared with 5.0% in the first quarter, with domestic consumption and the prolonged property downturn continuing to weigh on the economy despite resilient exports.
Market participants are watching for further guidance from China's leadership ahead of the Communist Party's Politburo meeting later this month, when senior officials are expected to review the economic outlook and policy priorities for the remainder of the year.
The State Council Information Office said the briefing focused on implementation of monetary policy and financial statistics for the first half of 2026, with Zou answering questions from reporters on the central bank's policy approach and financial developments.
