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Amidst challenges faced by China’s real estate sector, a senior official from China’s National Financial Regulatory Administration has urged financial institutions to provide robust support to the beleaguered industry. The call comes in the wake of the Chinese central bank’s substantial cut in mandatory cash reserves for banks and recent policy adjustments aimed at alleviating financial pressures on Chinese developers.
Deputy Director Xiao Yuanqi emphasized the “unshirkable responsibility” of the financial industry, stating that it must play a vital role in supporting the real estate sector. He cautioned against blindly withdrawing financing for projects facing difficulties, highlighting the extensive impact of the real estate industry on the national economy and people’s lives.
China’s real estate challenges have emerged from regulatory crackdowns on excessive debt reliance by developers, affecting consumer growth and broader economic dynamics. Xiao stressed the importance of not abruptly cutting off loans for projects in difficulty but rather providing greater support through measures such as extending existing loans, adjusting repayment arrangements, and issuing new loans.
However, Xiao noted that the recent relaxation of funding guidelines, valid through the end of the year, is targeted and emphasizes controllable risks and commercial sustainability. State banks will issue operating property loans to real estate companies, allowing eligible property developers to use these loans for repaying existing debts and opening market bonds.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development’s recent meeting reinforced the adaptability of property policy guidelines at the local level, indicating official efforts to expedite the implementation of recent policy announcements. The Chinese government’s decision to publicly announce the stimulus measures at a press briefing, rather than through the usual online channels, suggests a strategic intent to signal support as the country’s stock markets navigate challenging conditions.
While addressing the economic challenges, Xiao’s statements underscore the government’s commitment to navigating the complexities of the real estate sector and mitigating potential risks through targeted financial measures.