---
title: "Deng Xiaoping: China's Reform Leader | Model Diplomat"
description: "Deng Xiaoping was China's paramount leader who initiated the 1978 Reform and Opening Up policy, reshaping China's economy towards market orientation."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/deng-xiaoping"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Deng Xiaoping (1904–1997) was the paramount leader of the People's Republic of China who launched the post-1978 "Reform and Opening Up" policy that transformed China into a market-oriented economy.
- What was the significance of the 1978 Third Plenum of the Eleventh Central Committee?
- Did Deng Xiaoping hold the office of President or General Secretary?
- What was the 1992 Southern Tour and why did it matter?
- How did Deng's 'one country, two systems' formula apply to Hong Kong?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In 1980 Deng Xiaoping designated Shenzhen — then a fishing town bordering Hong Kong — as China's first Special Economic Zone, a decision that turned it into a megacity and the showcase of his Reform and Opening Up programme.

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