Zhu Rongji, former Chinese Premier, has died at 97 after playing a pivotal role in pushing China into the global trading system, reforming the economy, and attracting foreign investment.
On 12 Aug 2026 GMT+7, foreign news agencies reported that Zhu Rongji, the 5th Premier of China, passed away at age 97. He served as Premier from 1998 to 2003 and was key in negotiating China's entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2002. This marked a turning point that opened China's economy to global markets, accelerating its transition from a communist country isolated from the global economy into a manufacturing and trade powerhouse.
During his tenure, he advanced major economic reforms, including transferring tax authority from local governments to the central government, closing or restructuring loss-making state-owned enterprises, and promoting private home ownership among the population.
Chinese official media lauded Zhu Rongji's life as one of revolution, struggle, and glory. In their tribute, they described him as an outstanding member of the Communist Party of China, a loyal revolutionary, and a distinguished leader of both the party and state.
Zhu Rongji was born in Hunan Province in central China in 1928. He graduated in electrical engineering before entering public service and joining the Communist Party in 1949. He was twice removed from office—first after criticizing Mao Zedong's economic policies and being labeled right-wing, and again during the Cultural Revolution purges. After Mao's death, he was rehabilitated and gradually rose to become Vice Premier in charge of the economy in 1991 before becoming Premier in 1998.
Source: Reuters