The first vice-premier takes over duties of the premier at the time of the latter's incapacity. The incumbent vice premiers, in order of rank, are Ding Xuexiang, He Lifeng, Zhang Guoqing and Liu Guozhong.
The first vice-premier assumes the duties of the premier when the latter is unable to perform their role. The current vice-premiers, in order of seniority, are Ding Xuexiang, He Lifeng, Zhang Guoqing and Liu Guozhong.