For the first time in a decade, China has introduced new plans to guide modern urban development and governance. At the Central Urban Work Conference, which took place in Beijing on July 14-15, it was pointed out that China's urban development is shifting from a stage of large-scale expansion to one focused on improving the quality and efficiency of existing urban areas.

This comes as China continues to navigate the unprecedented urbanization wave that began with its reform and opening-up policy in the late 1970s, a transformation unmatched in scale and speed in world history. By 2024, official statistics showed China's urbanization rate had reached 67 percent, with the permanent urban population growing to 943.5 million, while the rural population had declined to 464.78 million. The country now boasts over 690 cities, many of which have evolved into interconnected megacity clusters that drive regional economic growth.

However, China's urban boom faces growing pains: traffic gridlock, sprawling commuter towns and flood-prone infrastructure, among others. Now, modernizing urban governance is central to its next-phase urbanization strategy.

The Chinese authorities have elevated urban development to a national priority, establishing clear guidelines that address fundamental questions of urban governance: Who builds China's cities and who benefits? These policies tackle urbanization challenges while charting a distinctively Chinese path for city development.

The Central Urban Work Conference held great importance for advancing urban governance. It addressed evolving challenges, met reform and development needs, responded to public expectations, and reinforced the principle of building cities of, for, and by the people.

The conference outlined the overall requirements for urban development, including the construction of modern cities that are innovative, desirable to live in, beautiful, resilient, culturally advanced and smart. According to a news release issued following the meeting, key priorities include optimizing the modern urban system, building vibrant cities powered by innovation, creating comfortable and convenient living environments, as well as promoting green, low-carbon and beautiful urban spaces.

The decisions of the Central Urban Work Conference will shape the quality of life and wellbeing of hundreds of millions of urban residents. Implementing them will be essential for advancing balanced and sustainable urban development across the country. BR