Lever Foundation

China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–30) goes further than any previous edition — explicitly committing to industrialise and scale microbial proteins, synthetic biology, and biomanufacturing at a national level.

The move is partly about reducing import dependence, particularly on soybeans, and partly about climate. Experts suggest that half of China's protein consumption will need to come from sustainable sources to meet its emissions targets.

China's 15th Five-Year Plan Highlights New Proteins, Biotech & Green Energy China has released a draft of its policy priorities under its 15th five-year plan, with new protein sources and green energy a key part of its climate strategy.