China’s exports continued to rise in August, though at a slower pace, with the near-term outlook clouded as global markets watch to see whether the world’s two largest economies can reach a lasting and durable trade deal.
Outbound shipments rose by 4.4 per cent year on year to US$321.8 billion last month, according to customs data released on Monday.
The figure was lower than the 7.2 per cent recorded in July and fell short of the 5.4 per cent forecast by the Chinese financial data provider Wind.
Imports in August, meanwhile, rose by 1.3 per cent year on year to nearly US$219.5 billion, compared to the 4.1 per cent growth in July and the 3.8 per cent growth forecast by Wind, suggesting little improvement in domestic demand.
China’s trade surplus expanded to US$102.3 billion.
Analysts said the effect of front-loading – when goods were shipped before higher tariff rates took effect – might have waned, but other factors continued to support performance.