Liu He (politician)

Liu He (刘鹤) (born January 25, 1952) is a prominent Chinese economist and politician. He served as a Vice Premier of the People's Republic of China from 2018 to 2023, holding a significant role in economic policy and international trade negotiations, particularly with the United States.

Liu He is widely considered a key economic advisor to General Secretary Xi Jinping and a leading figure in shaping China's economic reform agenda. He is known for his pragmatic approach and deep understanding of economic principles, having studied at both Renmin University of China and Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government.

His career includes positions within the State Council's Leading Group for Financial and Economic Affairs, where he played a critical role in formulating economic strategies and policies. He has also served as the Director of the General Office of the Central Financial and Economic Leading Group.

Liu He's responsibilities as Vice Premier included overseeing areas such as finance, agriculture, and technology. He was a principal negotiator for China in trade talks with the United States during the Trump administration, seeking to resolve trade disputes and establish a more balanced economic relationship. He is often credited with advocating for market-oriented reforms within China, although his influence is balanced against the political priorities of the Chinese Communist Party. Following the 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party in 2022, he stepped down from his Politburo position and subsequently relinquished his Vice Premiership in 2023. He was succeeded in the Vice Premiership by He Lifeng.