With a shrinking population and a collapsed property market, turning to a technology-led growth strategy was a logical step for China. The model has surpassed expectations, even with the fundamental flaw of being unable, for now, to create enough wealth to lift the fortunes of a broad slice of society.

Resolving that paradox will be key to the success of the 15th five-year plan, a roadmap for economic development introduced on Thursday at the opening of the National People’s Congress, the annual gathering of the legislature. Though it would be tempting to coast on the achievements of industrial giants like BYD Co. and Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd., the leadership shouldn’t just let things run their course. It’s time for Beijing to live up to its new slogan of “investing in people” after decades of backing manufacturing sectors like electric vehicles and battery making.

© Bloomberg