Core Viewpoint - The recent proposal by the Central Committee emphasizes the role of proactive fiscal policy in enhancing fiscal sustainability, indicating that fiscal measures will continue to support economic growth, employment, structural optimization, and improving people's livelihoods over the next five years [1][2]. Fiscal Policy Direction - China will maintain a proactive fiscal policy approach, which has been effective since the 2008 financial crisis, while also addressing the need for enhanced fiscal sustainability [2][3]. - The fiscal deficit rate has increased from 2.7% to 3.8% during the "14th Five-Year Plan" period, with expectations to rise to 4% by 2025 [2]. Revenue and Expenditure Challenges - The growth of fiscal revenue faces constraints, with traditional key tax sectors slowing down, while emerging industries and the digital economy grow rapidly but contribute less to tax revenue [2]. - There is a persistent demand for fiscal expenditure in key areas such as consumption promotion, investment expansion, and employment stabilization, leading to increased pressure on fiscal balance [2]. Tax Policy Optimization - The proposal calls for the optimization of tax incentives and maintaining a reasonable macro tax burden, with tax revenue as a primary source of fiscal income [4][5]. - The tax revenue as a percentage of GDP is projected to be below 13% in 2024, a decrease of about 2 percentage points from 2021, indicating a need to reverse the low tax revenue situation [4]. Central and Local Fiscal Responsibilities - The proposal suggests enhancing central fiscal responsibilities while increasing local fiscal capabilities, addressing the imbalance in fiscal responsibilities between central and local governments [5][6]. - There is a need to optimize the sharing of tax revenues, particularly in shared taxes like corporate and personal income taxes, to alleviate local fiscal pressures [6].