BEIJING — The Chinese government unveiled an annual economic growth target of “around 5%” Wednesday, despite the possible negative impact of a looming trade war with the United States, and pledged to address what it called “sluggish” consumer spending at home.

The target was announced at the opening session of the annual meeting of China’s legislature. It’s the same as for the last two years, but the use of “around” gives the government some room if growth falls short.

The government also said in a draft budget released Wednesday that defense spending would rise 7.2% this year to $245 billion, second only to the United States.

The growth target was presented to the nearly 3,000 members of the National People’s Congress. — Associated Press