Under Jiang Zemin’s leadership, which major issue did the People's Republic of China face?

During Jiang Zemin's leadership, which spanned from the late 1980s into the early 2000s, China underwent significant economic reforms that catalyzed rapid economic growth. While this growth brought many benefits, it also led to widening income disparities across various regions and demographics within the country.

China's move towards a market-oriented economy attracted investment and boosted industrial development, primarily benefiting urban areas and those who were already positioned to capitalize on these changes. As a result, a substantial wealth gap emerged between urban and rural populations, as well as between coastal and inland regions. This growing divide became a pressing social issue, leading to debates about economic equity and social justice.

The other options, while touching on relevant aspects of China's socio-economic landscape during that time, do not represent the major issue faced under Jiang Zemin's leadership as clearly as the widening income gaps. Agricultural productivity did increase, but it was not the defining challenge. Environmental policies were not significantly strengthened until later, and although corruption was a concern, it continued to be pervasive and only gained more attention as a major issue in subsequent years. Thus, the correct answer reflects the challenges posed by the economic transitions of that era.