The great Chinese inequality turnaround

This paper argues that after a quarter century of sharp and sustained increase, Chinese inequality is now plateauing and, according to some measures, even declining. A number papers have been harbingers this conclusion, but consolidates the literature indicating turnaround, provides empirical foundations for it. The argument made using range data sources measures perspectives on inequality. evolution further examined through decomposition by income source population subgroup. Some preliminary explanations are provided these trends in terms shifts policy structural transformation economy. We relate turnaround two classic phenomena development economics literature—the Lewis turning point Kuznets point. not yet full blown decline, there short term variations. But narrative needs accommodate possibility inequality, focus reasons turnaround.