Deputies to the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) underscored the private sector's vital role and growth potential during this year's "two sessions," emphasizing opportunities in manufacturing and technological innovation while urging stronger government support to boost competitiveness and sustainability.

As of Dec. 31, 2024, the number of private enterprises in China exceeded 57 million, accounting for 91.96% of all businesses and showing a year-on-year increase of 14.69%, according to a recent report by the Economic Daily.

Deputy Li Jihui, vice president of the Guangdong Federation of Industry and Commerce, stressed that private enterprises are essential to China's economy, particularly in driving manufacturing and innovation. He said that factors such as consumption growth, technological progress and supportive policies offer significant opportunities for private sector expansion.

The recently released government work report reaffirmed China's commitment to supporting private businesses, pledging concrete measures to promote their growth while protecting the lawful rights and interests of private enterprises and entrepreneurs.

At an NPC news conference on Tuesday, officials announced plans to further revise the draft private economy promotion law, first published last October, and expedite its enactment. If passed, it would become China's first comprehensive law dedicated to private sector development.

Li also emphasized the role of digital transformation and artificial intelligence in advancing industrial upgrades.

"Private enterprises can integrate big data, cloud computing and the Internet of Things into production, management and marketing to boost efficiency and competitiveness," Li said.

Private enterprises in China have performed strongly in strategic emerging industries, high-tech industries and core digital economy sectors, recording year-on-year growth of 17.07%, 18.70% and 18.87%, respectively — well above the national average of 14.69%, the Economic Daily report said.

On global expansion, Li urged private businesses to refine their international market strategies amid shifting global supply chains.

"Companies should track global market trends, enhance risk awareness in international trade, and focus on improving product quality and brand value to build customer loyalty," he said.

Li also encouraged private enterprises to use initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and cross-border e-commerce platforms to collaborate with foreign companies on product development and market expansion.

Deputy Wang Shuang, who runs a cultural tourism company in Henan province, highlighted the role of private enterprises in cultivating new quality productive forces, particularly in the cultural and tourism sectors.

"Beyond traditional services, the industry must incorporate new production factors such as digital technologies, smart equipment and innovative talent," Wang said. "Integrating emerging technologies with cultural tourism would lead to more creative and competitive products and services."

Deputy Shi Jubin, president of a major Chinese date food company, expressed confidence in the government's support for private enterprises. He said the recent symposium reinforced policy assurances for the sector.

The symposium highlighted the private sector's vast potential in the new era, declaring it an opportune time for private enterprises and entrepreneurs to fully tap into their capabilities.

Shi also underscored the social responsibility of private enterprises.

"While benefiting from state support, we must also give back to society and contribute to advancing Chinese modernization," he said.

Shi advocated for the intelligent upgrading of agricultural enterprises, saying it could draw scientific and technological talent to rural areas while boosting rural economic growth.

"By doing so, private enterprises can boost farmers' incomes, drive rural development and ensure economic benefits are widely shared," Shi said.