China has announced a new five-year strategy aimed at reinforcing its position as a global sporting powerhouse by expanding participation and improving infrastructure.
Sports minister Gao Zhidan said the plan focuses on making sport a daily part of people’s lives, with more accessible facilities, public events and services. Authorities will promote grassroots competitions such as community basketball leagues and city football tournaments while ensuring sports resources remain visible, accessible and affordable.
China Daily reports that 38.5% of the population now exercises regularly, while spending on sports equipment has risen 38% since 2020. The country’s ice and snow sports industry has also surpassed a market value of 1 trillion yuan (€126 billion) following the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.
Over the next five years, the government plans to support mass fitness programmes, expand the sports industry and encourage the integration of sport with tourism, culture and entertainment. China also aims to host more international events and develop domestic competitions while strengthening industry standards and professional training.
