China: Annual Chinese Communist Party (CCP) meetings to take place in Beijing from March 4

The annual sessions of China's top legislative and advisory bodies will occur at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing from March 4. The Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) will convene March 4, while the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) - the country's top legislature - will gather March 5. The sessions do not have fixed end dates but typically last around two weeks. Thousands of delegates from across the country are likely to attend the event.

Security measures and transport disruptions

Authorities will almost certainly increase security in Beijing ahead of and during the events. Enhanced security measures and localized transport disruptions will likely remain in place through March 15. The Ministry of Public Security (MPS) typically deploys thousands of police personnel to patrol the capital during the event. A noticeable security presence - possibly including military equipment and troops - is probable throughout the city. 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 and at tourist sites, markets, and neighborhoods such as Wangfujing and Sanlitun.

Although major protests are highly unlikely, minor demonstrations are possible during the events. 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 quickly arrest participants; clashes are possible. Reports indicate that officials have previously restricted potential protesters from attempting to enter Beijing during this period.

Road closures around Tiananmen Square, including Chang'An Road, Qianmen Street, Guangcheng West Side Road, and Guangcheng East Side Road, are possible during the event. Periodic roadblocks may be implemented, 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) and the capital's smaller Nanyuan Airport (NAY).

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 previously shut down construction work and factory production at sites in Beijing before significant events; such measures remain possible, especially if air pollution affects the region. Authorities may enhance inspections of inbound shipments, potentially leading to delivery delays. The government has 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 happen, particularly when traveling near sensitive sites in the capital. Authorities could enhance blocks on unapproved messaging applications and social media sites.