China’s Former Premier Zhu Rongji Dies at 98

Zhu Rongji, China’s fifth premier, died in Beijing on 12 August 2026 at 11:06 a.m. local time after an unspecified illness. He served as premier from 17 March 1998 to 16 March 2003 and held major offices in Shanghai and the People’s Bank of China before becoming head of government.

Zhu Rongji’s Political Offices

Zhu Rongji served as Mayor and Party Secretary of Shanghai from 1988 to 1991. He was Governor of the People’s Bank of China from 1993 to 1995, a post linked to monetary policy and financial administration in China.

Economic Reforms in the 1990s

During the late 1990s, Zhu Rongji led economic reforms that closed thousands of inefficient state-owned enterprises. These reforms were associated with private sector expansion, debt reduction measures, and large-scale worker layoffs in China.

China’s Entry into the World Trade Organization

Zhu Rongji played a central role in negotiations that led to China’s formal entry into the World Trade Organization in December 2001. The WTO is an international organisation that deals with rules of trade between nations and began functioning on 1 January 1995.

Important Facts for Exams

• Zhu Rongji was China’s fifth premier and served from 1998 to 2003.
• The State Council is the chief administrative authority of the People’s Republic of China.
• The People’s Bank of China is the central bank of China.
• China joined the World Trade Organization in December 2001.

Age and Official Obituary

Chinese state media and local agencies reported Zhu Rongji’s age as 98, while some international outlets reported 97 based on his birth date of 23 October 1928. A joint obituary was issued by the CPC Central Committee, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, the State Council, and the National Committee of the CPPCC.