Editor's Note: After GDP growth decelerated to a six-year low of 7 percent in the first quarter, the performance of the economy in the second quarter will be crucial in determining whether the annual target of "about 7 percent" can be achieved. Despite persistent downside pressure, positive signals have emerged this year indicating progress in restructuring and reform. China Daily invited a group of economists to provide insight into the country's economy.

Q1: Will the Chinese economy face more headwinds in the second quarter than in the first quarter? Will it face more pressure when it comes to achieving the full-year growth target?

Q2: Since the second quarter began, steps have been taken to stabilize economic growth, including monetary easing, local debt swaps and measures to boost the real estate market. Do you think these have been effective, or was it too late to arrest the slowdown?