【深度】化债一周年启示：让债务更好支持经济发展才是核心目标

Core Viewpoint - The central government has introduced a comprehensive debt reduction initiative, "6+4+2," aimed at resolving 12 trillion yuan of hidden local government debt over five years, with a focus on ensuring that debt management supports economic development rather than hindering it [1][9]. Debt Reduction Measures - The National People's Congress has approved significant debt reduction measures, including increasing the local government special debt limit by 6 trillion yuan for debt replacement, allocating 800 billion yuan annually for five years from new local government bonds specifically for debt reduction, and ensuring that 2 trillion yuan of hidden debt due after 2029 is repaid as per original contracts [2][4]. Impact on Local Government Debt - Following the implementation of the "6+4+2" policy, local hidden debt has significantly decreased from 14.3 trillion yuan at the end of the previous year to 10.5 trillion yuan by the end of 2024, marking a 27% reduction [4]. - As of September 28, 2025, nearly 3.2 trillion yuan in special refinancing bonds and new special bonds have been issued for debt reduction, exceeding the initial target of 2.8 trillion yuan [4][5]. Investment Efficiency Concerns - Some local governments have experienced a decline in investment efficiency during the debt reduction process, leading to economic contraction. The issuance of new special bonds for project construction has slowed, resulting in a decrease in funds available for infrastructure projects [6][7]. - For instance, from January to August this year, approximately 1.94 trillion yuan in new special bond funds were allocated to infrastructure projects, a reduction of nearly 200 billion yuan compared to the same period last year [6]. Structural Challenges - Analysts highlight structural contradictions in the debt reduction process, such as a scarcity of quality projects and declining investment returns, which hinder local governments from effectively utilizing available funds [7][8]. - The cautious approach of local governments, driven by stringent regulations and accountability measures, has led to delays in project approvals and a reluctance to initiate new projects, further exacerbating the issue of underutilized funds [8]. Long-term Strategies - To achieve sustainable local debt management, a shift from short-term crisis management to long-term structural reforms is necessary. This includes enhancing the fiscal system, clarifying responsibilities between central and local governments, and establishing a transparent municipal bond issuance mechanism [11][12]. - Emphasizing economic development over mere debt reduction is crucial for maintaining fiscal sustainability, with a focus on investing in high-return sectors such as technology innovation and green energy [12][13].