Ganhuo literally means dried goods and refers to foods and seasonings that have been preserved by removing their moisture content. But ganhuo has also developed another figurative meaning and it is used when refering to the essence of a speech or a story, as opposed to empty words.

Ganhuo is being stressed at the two sessions, during which the NPC deputies and CPPCC members voice the concerns of the people and make suggestions. They are being encouraged to speak their minds in a straightforward way, instead of indulging in rhetoric that merely echoes the voices of those at the top.

China's new leadership has pledged to improve the Party's work style, and ganhuo discards formality and bureaucratism and embodies a down-to-earth style of working. For example, officials are encouraged to not to read their prepared reports at meetings, to be specific and to the point, and to improve the efficiency of the conferences.

Ganhuo is highly advocated as a means of staying in touch with the people. By embracing ganhuo the Party win the trust and support of the people and so become closer to the people.

(China Daily 03/15/2013 page10)