Yan Pengcheng, who previously worked under He in various positions at the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), has been appointed as a deputy head of the general office of the Central Financial and Economic Affairs Commission. This powerful Communist Party body is responsible for managing the world’s second-largest economy, with He serving as the director of the general office. Yan’s new position was announced at a party event in Beijing, making him the fourth deputy under He at the commission.
Before He became vice-premier in March of last year, he held the position of head of NDRC, where he served as China’s top state planner. His current role on the finance and economics commission reflects his growing influence as he takes on more responsibilities in economic policy. At a recent meeting, Yan was accompanied by Han Wenxiu, his deputy at NDRC’s economic affairs commission’s office, showcasing its importance in economic decision-making.
Yan holds a master’s degree in economics and had a diverse career at NDRC, where he served as a spokesman and led the department of national economy. He later transitioned to become vice-governor of Hebei province in 2021 before joining provincial party standing committee. This appointment further highlights that trend where former colleagues from NDRC join He at economic affairs commission such as Yang Yinkai who was named deputy head of general office last year after decades working at NDRC.
Yang Yinkai’s experience in managing cadres and personnel has prepared him well for this new role. This move demonstrates how closely linked NDRC is with other key government departments such as finance and economics commission.
In conclusion, this appointment marks another significant step forward for Yan Pengcheng’s career and shows how closely connected he remains with his former colleagues from his time working under Xi Jinping at NDRC. As one of China’s most powerful bodies overseeing financial and economic affairs, it will be interesting to see how Yan navigates this new role while maintaining close ties with Xi Jinping.
