Many Chinese anticipate **a prolonged period of slow economic growth** in 2024, despite a projected growth rate of around **5 percent**.
Concerns rise as **long-term structural issues** like **population decline** and **housing oversupply** become evident, impacting private sector investment.
Economists warn of a potential **balance-sheet recession**, characterized by elevated private-sector debt and reduced spending.
Beijing has acknowledged the necessity of **policy adjustments** to maintain reasonable growth, although substantial stimulus measures seem unlikely.
To combat social unrest, China must transition its focus from **economic expansion** to enhancing **social welfare** for low-income households.