Li Qiang President's right-hand man could get more rein to manage economy

During Mr Li Qiang's stint as governor of Zhejiang in 2013, he was known to prioritise efficiency, pledging to reduce layers of bureaucracy and create the best investment environment at China's fourth-largest provincial economy. 

- Aw Cheng Wei China Correspondent

He then brought the same pro-business attitude to Shanghai in 2017, where he was the party chief, vowing to reduce the time needed for companies to start operations.

When China's Parliament begins its full annual session on Sunday, Mr Li is expected to be named the country's premier - the top official responsible for jump-starting the world's second-largest economy, which has been battered by stringent Covid-19 controls and a worsening relationship with the United States.

Mr Li, 63, is known to be a close aide of President Xi Jinping. Both men served in Zhejiang province in south-eastern China, when Mr Xi was an up-and-coming official.

Mr Li was Mr Xi's chief of staff in Zhejiang between 2002 and 2007 before he went on to become neighbouring Jiangsu province's party chief in 2016 and financial hub Shanghai's top leader in 2017.

Mr Xi was elected China's leader in 2013. Analysts told The Straits Times that Mr Li, whose previous postings have helped build his reputation as a pro-business politician, will have Mr Xi's trust in running the economy, which will make it easier for him to implement bold reforms that China may need.

Zhejiang and Jiangsu, whose provincial capitals are Hangzhou and Nanjing, respectively, and Shanghai are known to be among the most business-friendly regions in China.