资本报酬递减
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蔡昉:为什么要强调“投资于人”?
经济观察报· 2026-03-04 08:49
Core Viewpoint - The key to forming positive expectations during the "14th Five-Year Plan" period is to invest in people through institutional construction, ensuring the provision of more public goods and enhancing the well-being of families [2][6]. Economic Growth Projections - Two frameworks for estimating economic growth during the "14th Five-Year Plan" were presented, indicating that per capita GDP must maintain an annual growth rate of at least 4.4% to reach over $20,000 by 2035 [2]. - Under a high scenario that includes reform dividends, per capita GDP could reach approximately $21,989, aligning with the doubling target [2]. Supply-Side Constraints - The slowdown in total factor productivity growth is a significant structural constraint, as past efficiency gains from labor moving to higher productivity sectors are nearing exhaustion [3]. - The diminishing returns on capital investment are highlighted, with the capital-output ratio increasing significantly since transitioning from upper-middle to high-income status, leading to lower investment returns [3]. Demand-Side Issues - Post-pandemic, supply has returned to potential growth levels, but prices have not rebounded, indicating weak inflation driven by insufficient consumer demand [3]. - The long-term stability of the household consumption rate suggests that low consumption is not a cyclical issue but rather rooted in structural factors that require institutional solutions [3]. Employment Challenges - The urban unemployment rate is around 5%, indicating structural mismatches between job seekers and available positions, particularly in skills [4]. - The rise of artificial intelligence is exacerbating these mismatches, as it tends to replace mid-skill jobs, making it harder for both young and older workers to find employment [4]. Income Distribution - By 2035, it is proposed that the growth rate of per capita disposable income should not be less than that of GDP, with the Gini coefficient targeted to fall below 0.4 [6]. - Effective redistribution mechanisms, such as social security and tax policies, are crucial for reducing income inequality, as evidenced by OECD countries [6]. Policy Recommendations - A policy framework focusing on promoting employment, increasing income, and stabilizing expectations is suggested, emphasizing the need for institutional improvements [3][6]. - Key areas for investment include enhancing public services in childbirth, education, and employment support, as well as increasing educational spending to meet future labor market demands [7].