As the Chinese mainland's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–2025) wraps up, CGTN’s Emma Ho hit the streets of Beijing to ask young pros how they feel about the past five years of economic moves. Here are the 5 keywords that popped up again and again:
- Digital Boost 📲
From 5G rollouts to mobile payment apps, tech adoption has skyrocketed. Think of it like India’s Digital India push or Southeast Asia’s grab of e-wallets—Beijing folk are all about that faster, smarter lifestyle. - Green Growth 🌱
Sustainability vibes are strong. Urban gardens, electric buses and eco-friendly office designs aren’t just buzzwords—they’ve become part of daily life, similar to the reusable straw trend in Manila or tree-planting drives in Mumbai. - Global Ties 🌏
Trade corridors and partnerships have expanded. Professionals point to more cross-border projects—so if you’ve followed the Belt and Road chatter, you’ll see its impact on everything from logistics hubs to cultural exchanges. - Startup Vibes 🚀
Innovation hubs in Beijing and nearby tech zones feel as electric as Bangalore’s tech parks or Singapore’s fintech labs. Young founders are launching apps and green-tech solutions with VC backing like never before. - Work-Life Balance ⚖️
After years of hustle culture, there’s a growing focus on mental health and flexible hours. Think co-working cafés buzzing in Jakarta or Seoul’s weekend wellness escapes—Beijing’s young pros are carving out time for yoga, gaming and family.
Seeing these themes play out in the Chinese mainland feels familiar if you’re tracking trends in South and Southeast Asia. Whether you’re in Dhaka, Kuala Lumpur or Ho Chi Minh City, it’s clear: the next wave of growth is about smart tech, green living and making work actually work for you. Which keyword resonates most with your city’s vibe? Drop a comment! ✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
