China: Annual CPPCC and NPC sessions to take place in Beijing from March 4

Event

The annual sessions of China's top legislative and advisory bodies will take place at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing from March 4. The first session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) will convene March 4, while the first session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) - the country's top legislature - will open March 5. The sessions do not have fixed end dates but typically last for around two weeks until March 15. Around 5,000 representatives are likely to attend the event.

Security Measures
Increased security measures are probable across Beijing in the run-up to the meetings. Heavy security and additional screening checkpoints are likely at railway and bus stations throughout the capital for the duration of the two sessions. Authorities typically establish temporary security checkpoints at subway stations near Tiananmen Square and the Great Hall of the People; security personnel may also restrict access to Jianguomen, Dongdan, Qianmen, Wangfujing, Tiananmen East, and Tiananmen West subway stations without prior notification. Authorities could implement similar security measures near the National Political Consultative Hall, as well as at tourist sites, markets, and neighborhoods such as Wangfujing and Sanlitun.

Security personnel will probably close roads near Tiananmen Square, including Chang'An Road, Qianmen Street, Guangcheng West Side Road, and Guangcheng East Side Road, during the event. Periodic roadblocks are possible, especially on secondary streets in central Beijing, causing localized traffic disruptions in Dongcheng District. Tighter security checks are likely at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), as well as the capital's smaller Nanyuan Airport (NAY).

Although major protests are highly unlikely, minor demonstrations cannot be ruled out during the meetings. Small groups of petitioners or anti-government demonstrators could attempt symbolic protests in and around Tiananmen Square or other landmarks in the capital, including the Zhongnanhai leadership compound and the National Petition Office. If protests occur, security personnel will move quickly to arrest participants; clashes are possible.

Commercial Disruptions
Business disruptions are possible on dates surrounding the National Party Congress. Several markets could close in the days leading to the meeting. Authorities have shut down construction work and factory production at sites in Beijing before significant events in the past; such measures remain possible, especially if air pollution affects the region. Authorities have also previously limited the handling of hazardous and flammable chemicals at ports during important events.

The government could tighten telecommunications controls ahead of the meetings. The use of virtual private networks (VPNs) is already heavily restricted, though the impact will vary depending on the service; disruptions are less likely if using a state-approved service. Slower internet speeds may occur, particularly on days immediately surrounding the two sessions. Cellular service disruptions could also occur, particularly when traveling near sensitive sites in the capital. Authorities could enhance blocks of unapproved messaging applications and social media sites.

Advice

Consider avoiding Tiananmen Square and the surrounding areas in Beijing through March 15. Allow additional time for travel, especially in central Beijing. Reconfirm any scheduled meetings at government facilities. Do not discuss sensitive political issues in public, including around taxi drivers or over the phone. Carry proper identification at all times and follow the instructions of authorities. Be prepared for possible bag searches at transport centers and other sensitive locations.