China Proposes 7.2% Increase in Defense Budget for 2025, Marking 10th Year of Single-Digit Growth

China's Proposed Defense Budget for 2025

The Chinese government has proposed a defense budget of 1.78 trillion yuan ($246 billion) for the 2025 fiscal year, representing a 7.2% increase from the previous year. This proposed expenditure would mark the 10th consecutive year of single-digit growth for China's defense budget since 2016.

The proposed budget was included in a draft report submitted to the national legislature on Wednesday. If approved by lawmakers, it would continue the trend of moderate increases in defense spending observed in recent years.

The report emphasizes the importance of national defense and military affairs, highlighting the progress made in these areas over the past year. It outlines plans to further advance military training and preparations for war, accelerate the development of new combat capabilities, and establish a modern military theory system with Chinese characteristics.

The report also emphasizes China's commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and development interests. It notes that a strong national defense is essential for maintaining global peace and stability.

China's proposed defense budget for 2025 is significantly lower than that of the United States, which is expected to spend $850 billion on its military in the same year. The US National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 identifies China as an "adversarial nation" and allocates a large portion of its military budget to countering China's growing influence.

A military observer in Beijing, who wished to remain anonymous, stressed the importance of China continuing to strengthen its defensive capabilities in the face of growing threats and provocations from foreign countries. They also noted that a strong military is essential for ensuring the peaceful development of the nation.