China central bank reaffirms support for real economy

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CNA – China’s central bank will step up credit support for the real economy while keeping the yuan basically steady, Governor Yi Gang said in comments published yesterday, reaffirming the bank’s existing policy objectives.

“We will keep liquidity reasonably ample, increase credit support to the real economy,” Yi was quoted by a central bank statement as saying during a Parliament session on Friday.

“Going forward, China has the conditions to maintain a normal monetary policy as long as possible and maintain the stability of the currency’s value.” China’s economy rebounded at a faster-than-anticipated clip in the third quarter but a more robust revival in the longer term will be challenged by persistent COVID 19-related curbs, a prolonged property slump and global recession risks.

The central bank will keep the yuan basically stable while enhancing its flexibility, Yi said.

The central bank will make CNY200 billion (USD27.6 billion) in special loans to ensure the delivery of stalled housing projects, Yi said. The scheme was announced by authorities in August but they did not give specifics.

China will properly resolve financial risks in the real estate sector and guide financial institutions to meet property developers’ demand for financing, within reason, Yi said.

Yi also reaffirmed that China will further enhance financial supervision and prudently curb financial risks.

Between 2017 and 2021, China disposed of non-performing assets in the banking sector worth more than CNY12 trillion, he said.

File photo shows People’s Liberation Army soldiers standing in front of the People’s Bank of China in Beijing,
China. PHOTO: BLOOMBERG