Chinese Society 2018: Stabilising Development Amid Uncertainties

Abstract

<jats:p> China had a bumpy year in 2018. The central government had to make a midyear adjustment with renewed emphasis on stabilising the economy and society prompted largely by the US-China trade war and a slew of domestic factors, such as the grieving middle class increasingly burdened by high living costs and growing household debts. By all signs, the year 2019 will be more difficult and a serious test is forthcoming for the Xi leadership. </jats:p>