There are different ways to look at China, but its five-year plans give the most enlightening glimpse of the country. It’s been over half a century since China initiated its first five-year plan to promote the economy in 1953, and each of its follow-ups have made historic contributions to China’s development. In 2011, a more recent five-year plan was introduced. What makes it different from the previous ones? How much further is it taking China? What historic achievements is it designed to make? The 12th Five-Year Plan is well under way and beginning to impact the lives of Chinese people. This program conducts a comprehensive review of the plan and explores China’s prospects for the next five years.